Trail #216E Windy
⚠️ Important Alert: Certain trails and areas on Forest Road 99 are closed Monday through Friday until October 31. View information about temporary trail closures and Spirit Lake Tunnel Outlet Construction.
It is recommended that hikers wanting to hike the Loowit Trail in any length to access the Loowit via either the Ptarmagin Trail at Climbers Bivouac or June Lake Trailhead on Forest Road 83 for uninterrupted access.
The one mile Windy Trail provides a connection from Truman Trail #207 to Loowit Trail #216. It is the most direct access for hikers from Windy Ridge Viewpoint on Forest Road 99 to the Loowit Trail and Loowit Falls Viewpoint Trail #216F.
The Windy Trail passes the location of the Timberline Campground and Viewpoint that were destroyed in the 1980 eruption. If you look closely you can still see traces of asphalt from the road and parking lot.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
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.
$5/vehicle/day or valid Recreation Pass required at Ape Canyon Trailhead or Windy Ridge Viewpoint. See Mount St. Helens Map for fee and payment sites.
- No off trail travel.
- Dogs must be on a 6 foot leash on trail at all times.
- Stock, bicycles, and motorized use are prohibited.
- Day-use only.
Getting There
Trailhead/Starting Points
Directions
From Cougar, WA take Lewis River Road east for 2.8 miles. The road then changes to Forest Road 90. Continue on Forest Road 90 for 16 miles and stay to the left on Forest Road 25, pass the Pine Creek Information Center. Drive Forest Road 25 for 25 miles to the junction of Forest Road 99. Turn left onto Forest Road 99 towards Windy Ridge. Drive approximately 16.4 miles to Windy Ridge Interpretive Site.
Truman Trail takes off from the far end of the parking lot. Hike approximately 2 miles to the Windy Trail 216E, which connects the Truman Trail #207 and Loowit Trail #216.
Additional Information
Operated By
Forest Service
