High Lakes Trail #116

High Lakes Trail #116 is a historic, multi-use route in the Cowlitz Valley Area of Gifford Pinchot National Forest, reached from near Olallie Lake off Forest Road 5601. It travels through conifer forest and into higher terrain where it opens up toward views of Mt. Adams.

The trail’s main early landmark is Chain of Lakes, passed at about 1.5 miles from the Olallie Lake starting point. After Chain of Lakes, the route enters open forest and expands into semi-open meadows with Mt. Adams in sight.

From the meadows, the route drops steeply to a large lava flow and Adams Fork Creek. It then climbs again through open forest to Horseshoe Lake, keeping Mt. Adams visible along the way.

High Lakes Trail #116 continues east past Horseshoe Lake to the junction with Spring Creek Trail #115, just north of Horseshoe Lake. From that junction, it proceeds to its next connection points near Keenes Trail #120 and continues toward the terminus at Forest Road 2329.117, where the Klickitat Loop Trail #7A continues north.

Use is allowed for hikers, horseback riders, bicyclists, and motorcycles. The forest’s recreation notes also specify that the section east of Horseshoe Lake Campground is closed to motorcycles, while the entire trail is closed to ATV use.

Plan for high-elevation timing: low-elevation sections typically melt out by mid-May, while higher sections typically melt out by mid-July. Snow can persist in spots on north-facing slopes, and mosquito repellent is advised; backcountry creeks and streams may dry out, so bring water planning flexibility.

More information: Visitor information, Visitor information, Campground: Olallie Lake Guide | Washington 2026