Skip to main content
Recreation Region: Cowlitz Valley Area

Trail #2000 Pacific Crest, William O. Douglas

This trail is open to hiker and horse use only.

Access the Pacific Crest Trail #2000 traveling north into William O. Douglas Wilderness is from White Pass near Leech Lake. Stock users should use the trailhead northeast of the lake.

From here the trail leaves US-12 and climbs 2 miles to Deer Lake. From Deer Lake the trail enters mostly forested, subalpine terrain, dotted with many small lakes. After 5.5 miles, the trail passes Beusch Lake and continues another mile to Jess Lake. The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail runs along the 27-mile crest of the William O. Douglas Wilderness.

Visit Pacific Crest Trail Association website for online maps, conditions, and other information about the Pacific Crest Trail #2000.

General Information

Low elevation trails typically melt out by mid-May. High elevation trails typically melt out by mid-July.  Snow may persist in spots on north facing slopes. There may be downed trees, washouts, and/or landslides on trails. Carrying mosquito repellent is advisable. Backcountry creeks and streams may dry out so plan ahead in case you need to bring in water.  Recreating in burned areas poses greater risks. See safety tips for burned areas. Please assist in reporting wildfires by calling 911 or Columbia Dispatch at (360) 891-5140.  Sign up for emergency alerts by county. 

Skamania County; Lewis County; Cowlitz County

Wilderness permit is required. Permits are free and self-issued at trailheads.
A valid Recreation Pass is required at White Pass Day Use/Boat Launch/Trailhead.

No

  • Wilderness Regulations apply in the Wilderness.
  • No campfires are permitted at Dewey Lake.
  • Please camp at least 100 feet from lakes and the Pacific Crest Trail to protect fragile vegetation.

Getting There

Directions

From Packwood, Washington travel east on US Highway 12 for 19.9 miles and arrive at Leech Lake Campground on the left (Forest Road 498). Look for trailhead parking area.

See also: White Pass Day Use/Boat Launch/Trailhead on the Okanogan-Wenatchee NF.

Additional Information

Operated By

Forest Service

Recreation Opportunities

Recreation Groups

a mountainous area with evergreen trees and dry meadows. Blue sky.

The Pacific Crest Trail within Gifford Pinchot National Forest begins in the Columbia Gorge and runs north to enter Gifford Pinchot National Forest just south of Wind River

Last updated August 6, 2025