How to Spend a Day at Gifford Pinchot National Forest Washington
Located just a few minutes east of Packwood, roughly five miles down US-12, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington offers vacationers an alternative to Mount Rainier National Park. With stunning mountain views, excellent hiking trails, waterfalls, and multiple ways to enjoy it all, it’s a unique area that locals have long treasured.
When you’re planning your Pacific Northwest vacation, adding this spot to your itinerary is a must, especially if you want to spend time in the great outdoors without the national park crowds. Get the scoop on how to enjoy a full day of exploring in this month’s blog, and be sure to book your stay with TMC so you’re never more than a few minutes away from your next big adventure.
In This Article:
- Where is the Gifford Pinchot National Forest?
- Directions from Packwood
- Morning: Gifford Pinchot National Forest Hikes
- Afternoon: Unique Stops and Activities
- Day Trip: Ape Cave Exploration
- Gifford Pinchot National Forest Campgrounds
- Know Before You Go
- Plan Your Stay Near Gifford Pinchot
- FAQs
Where is the Gifford Pinchot National Forest?
The Gifford Pinchot National Forest is located three hours south of Seattle, in southwestern Washington. Spanning more than a million acres, it’s a vital piece of protected land that’s home to glaciers, watersheds, and two iconic sites: Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens, an active stratovolcano.
Gifford Pinchot National Forest Directions from Packwood
Packwood, WA, offers a convenient home base for folks visiting the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. To get there:
- Head east along US-12 for 0.3 miles
- Turn right on Snyder Road and continue for 1.2 miles
- Continue straight onto Forest Road for 4.5 miles
- Arrive at the Packwood Lake Loop Trailhead
Different access points exist for specific areas of the forest, but if you’re looking for proximity to Mt. Rainier and many of the surrounding sites, Packwood cannot be beaten.
Morning: Gifford Pinchot National Forest Hikes
There are nearly 1,500 miles of hiking trails in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, which is a prime reason people visit every year. If you’re looking to dirty up your soles, you’ll find many wonderful opportunities. Some of our favorite hiking areas take you past scenic lakes, rushing rivers, and cascading waterfalls.
Packwood Lake Trail
Open to both hikers and horseback riders, this popular trail leads you up a mild elevation gain, through wilderness and deep forest growth, until you reach the 452-acre, 1,200-year-old lake. Along the trail, you’ll get great views of Mount Rainier before descending from the ridgeline down toward the water.
If you’re hiking in March or early spring, expect snowy and muddy conditions. Spiked shoes and trekking poles are recommended this time of year.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 10 to 12 miles round-trip
- Location: Begins at end of Forest Road 1260
- Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
- Trail Details
Angel Falls Loop
If you want a short hike that rewards with spectacular views and offers a well-maintained path, this is the one for you. Located near White Pass in the Cowlitz River Valley near Packwood, this loop trail features 200-foot-tall basalt cliffs and dense fern-filled greenery that hangs from trees overhead. It’s the perfect hike for mid-summer when you want some shade. Along the way to the show-stopping 175-foot Angel Falls, you’ll also pass Covel Falls – a nice two-for-one when it comes to Gifford Pinchot National Forest waterfalls.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 3.4 to 3.6 miles round-trip
- Location: Begins at the Cispus Environmental Learning Center
- Elevation Gain: 1,100
- Trail Details
Takhlakh Lake and Takh Takh Meadow
Nothing beats a scenic stroll around a reflective lake with views of Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams, and the Goat Rocks all in one. While you’ll need to drive about 35 miles south of Packwood to reach this spot, it’s well worth it and gives you a chance to see lava flow formations, enjoy a picnic in nature, and disconnect from the bustle of the world.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: ~3 miles round-trip
- Location: Begins at Takhlakh Lake Campground
- Elevation Gain: 500 feet
- Trail Details
Ready to Book Your Packwood Vacation?
At TMC Vacation Rentals, our collection of cabins and homes near the Gifford Pinchot National Forest welcome guests with cozy interiors and all the comforts of home you need for a perfect stay. Get the best rate (saving hundreds compared to Airbnb) when you book direct with us today!
Afternoon: Unique Stops and Activities
After a morning on the trails, it’s time to shift gears and explore the more unique sides of the forest.
If you’re visiting in late summer, huckleberry picking is one of the most local, seasonal experiences. Peak season typically runs from mid-August through mid-September, and designated areas around the forest fill up with people collecting berries. You’re allowed up to one gallon per day for personal use, and it’s easy to turn this into a quick afternoon stop on your way back toward town.
For something more curated, check the schedule at the Cowlitz Valley Ranger Station. Ranger-led programs and guided talks are offered throughout the season, covering topics like wildlife, fire ecology, and forest history. These are typically short, accessible sessions that don’t require advance booking.
If you still want to explore more of the forest, but aren’t ready for another full hike, you can drive out toward Takhlakh Lake or the surrounding forest roads near Mount Adams. Here, you’ll get wide-open views, uncrowded pull-offs, and a chance to see different parts of the forest without retracing your morning route.
See More: 10 Fun Facts about Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Day Trip: Ape Cave Exploration
If you’re up for a bit of a drive (about 3 hours), the Ape Caves are guaranteed to provide just enough of a challenge to excite your adventurous spirit. This 2.5-mile-long lava tube cave system was formed roughly 2,000 years ago when nearby Mount St. Helens erupted.
After a few short staircases, you’ll enter the main cavern where you’re welcome to explore at your own pace.
From there, you can check out two main sections:
- Lower Cave: Shorter, three-quarter-mile route that’s relatively flat and focuses
- Upper Cave: 1.5-mile option that includes rock scrambling and uneven terrain
May to October, reservations are required and cost $2.00. It’s important to remember this is a delicate ecosystem, and as such, there are rules inside the caves.
- No food, pets, smoking, or taking rocks from the area
- No touching – the walls are coated in slick, mineral-rich “slime” that is vital to the ecosystem and dies when touched
- Bring lights – and back-up lights
- The caves are 42 degrees, damp, and drippy at times. Dress accordingly.
Gifford Pinchot National Forest Campgrounds
If, during your Packwood vacation, you want to spend a night away from your cozy cabin and enjoy sleeping under the stars, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest campgrounds are an excellent option.
The forest has more than 40 unique camping areas ranging from primitive, tent-on-the-ground sites to cabins to RV areas. Picnic tables, designated fire pits, and restrooms are also available nearby. While reservations are sometimes needed for specific sites, there are always a number of “open” first-come/first-served sites.
In spring, before the snow melts, many sites may be closed. Check the forest website for up-to-date details and make any reservations at recreation.gov.
Know Before You Go
Planning before you head out will make the whole day go smoother. Be sure to pay attention to the following:
- Road conditions
- The weather
- If you’re in a 4WD or AWD vehicle, and the recommendations for specific routes
- Current restrictions
It’s also always recommended you tell someone where you’re going and when you hope to return. Additionally, Rangers strongly encourage visitors to bring the “Ten Essentials.”
- Map/Compass/GPS
- Sun protection
- Extra layers of clothing
- Food (more than you think you need)
- Extra water
- Light source and batteries
- First aid kit
- Fire starter supplies
- Multitool or repair kit
- A tarp or something to use for shelter
Plan Your Stay Near Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Featured Property: Glacier Peak Getaway
At TMC Vacation Rentals in Packwood, we welcome guests every day who are coming to the PNW for a peaceful break from their daily grind. Among the towering evergreens and peaks of the Cascade Mountains, you’ll find our inventory cabins and homes, all outfitted with everything you need to enjoy a relaxing stay.
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With full kitchens, plush bedding, and comfortable furnishings throughout, plus amenities like EV chargers and hot tubs, you can reserve the perfect spot for your family or group. We even have pet-friendly properties so your furry friends can tag along on your adventures. Browse our full inventory of Packwood homes and get ready for an unforgettable time exploring the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gifford Pinchot National Forest
What is the weather like at Gifford Pinchot National Forest?
As with most Pacific Northwest climates, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest experiences mild spring and summer temperatures that rarely exceed the mid-80s or dip below 40.
Fall is consistently cool with temperatures that slowly move from around 75 in September to the low 50s by November.
In winter, the area sees 3 to 4 snow days per month, and temperatures range from the 30s and 40s in the day to the low 20s and 30s at night.
Where is the Gifford Pinchot National Forest best swimming found?
There are tons of excellent swimming spots inside the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. For areas near Packwood, we recommend La Wis Wis Campground’s Blue Hole and lake areas such as Walput, Takhlakh, and of course, Packwood Lake.
Are dogs allowed in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest?
Yes, dogs are welcome inside the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. You’re welcome to take them on hikes, to campgrounds, and along interpretive paths. They must remain on a leash no longer than 6 feet, and owners must clean up after their pets. Certain areas, like the Johnson Ridge Observatory, do not allow pets, so pay attention to posted signs.
What to do in Gifford Pinchot National Forest?
There’s so much to do at the Gifford Pinchot National Forest! Spend days finding quaint creek falls, swim in a lake, forage for huckleberries, hike beautiful mountain trails, mountain bike, horseback ride, or simply find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the PNW.