Goat Creek — Tuesday, Jul. 11, 2000

South Cascades > Mount St. Helens

Great forest and ridge trail to outstanding views of Rainier, Adams, and the Goat Rocks. Blow-downs had been cut to about 3 miles in, then there were quite a few after that, but nothing that couldn't be dealt with. Start from the Bumping River Road across from the Cougar Flat campground. Climb 2600 feet in 3.8 miles to the American Ridge Trail junction, then go right for 1.2 miles and 800 more feet to the top of Goat Peak, 6473 feet. If you don't want an extra near-level 1.5 miles of old growth forest, you can get to Goat Peak from the American River (Highway 410) side, starting at Hells Crossing (Trail # 958.3).