Fall on the Lewis River

During the summer, the trails, swimming holes, and campgrounds in the Lewis River area of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest are just a bit too crowded for my taste. As soon as mid-September rolls around, this area in Southwest Washington quickly starts to clear out and I start making plans for a visit.

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Hiking along the Lewis River in the Fall all but guarantees an abundance of moss, the sound of rain tapping against a canopy of leaves, and misty forest views. The winding fern-lined trails smell of sweet, decaying earth. Banana slugs creep along the sides of trees and mushrooms peek out from the underbelly of fallen logs. The Lewis River area is one of Southwestern Washington’s most beautiful places. Here are a few photographs from my last visit in late September.

The Details

The Lewis River trail is a popular hiking and biking trail that runs parallel to the river and winds through a lush old growth forest. Whether you are looking for a very short trail to a stunning waterfall, or a multi-mile adventure with a few different scenic spots, the Lewis River trail has got you covered. A little over two hours from Portland, this spot isn’t a quick trip but it’s definitely worth the miles! If you are looking for directions, current conditions, etc. click here.

The Lower Falls Recreation Area has a small parking lot and toilets (depending on the season). From the parking lot, its an eighth of a mile walk to the viewpoints of the lower falls. The lower falls are absolutely stunning. In summer and early fall, the water flow is likely to be light which will make the rocks behind the water visible. During the rest of the year, the water flow is usually heavy and will cover the rocks.

After visiting the lower falls, you can hike along the Lewis River trail in either direction. Hike upstream, you’ll eventually reach middle falls and upper falls (a few miles of hiking for both- this website has more details). You can also get back in your car and drive to either the middle or upper falls trailheads which will cut off some of the mileage. Both the middle and upper falls trails feature additional waterfalls on smaller streams that feed into the Lewis River.

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As always, if you choose this adventure or any other, be sure to leave no trace or leave the place better than you found it.

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