Near Snowgrass Flats Loop
Camping with Mt. Adams in the background.
Near Snowgrass Flats Loop
Post-sunset light glimmers on Mt. Adams.
Near Snowgrass Flats Loop
Waterfall below Goat Lake.
Near Snowgrass Flats Loop
The Goat Rocks don't disappoint - fields of flowers and Mt. Adams pose at sunset.
Near Snowgrass Flats Loop
Fields of lupines frame views of Mt. Adams.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Snowgrass Flats Loop

4.9 (12 Ratings)
A loop traveling through expansive flowering meadows to some of the best views in the Goat Rocks Wilderness.
14.4
mi
Distance
3,540
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Commonly BackpackedLakeRiver/CreekViewsWaterfallWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
14.37mi
Distance
3,540ft
Elevation Gain
3,540ft
Elevation Loss
30%
Max Grade
6,683ft
High Point
4,553ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
The loop starts at the Berry Patch trailhead, but could also be started at the Snowgrass Flats hikers-only trailhead. The trailhead area fills up early, especially on the weekends, so make sure to get an early start or be prepared to do some road travel before even reaching the trailhead. The route starts by climbing Goat Ridge Trail #95. The route ascends steeply to a saddle and follows Goat Ridge through flowering meadows and scree fields towards Jordan Creek Basin. Jordan Creek Basin has a couple of campsites and is a popular stop. Continue climbing to the junction with the Lily Basin Trail #86. Take a right and descend through fields of wildflowers and small creeks. The route passes Goat Lake (another camping option), which remains frozen through most of the year. The route continues south, passing through fields of lupines framing awesome views of Mt. Adams. The route then intersects the Snowgrass Trail #96. You can take a right to descend back to the trailhead, or continue left towards Snowgrass Flats. The route climbs to the 10-plus acre subalpine meadow known as Snowgrass Flats. Due to its openness, the meadow is another popular place to camp. Many people continue up the PCT towards Old Snowy Mountain for expansive views of the Goat Rocks and Cascade volcanoes. After visiting Snowgrass Flats, continue down the Bypass Trail #97 before reconnecting with the Snowgrass Trail #96. Enjoy the descent through lush conifer forest before reaching the trailhead. Note: There are many variations of this route that can also be taken. You can set up a base camp (e.g. Jordan Creek Basin, Goat Lake, Snowgrass Flats) and take day trips from there. Some popular destinations include Old Snowy Mountain, Hawkeye Point Access Trail, and Snowgrass Flats.
History & Background
This trail is part of the Klickitat Trail System used by Native Americans traveling over Cispus Pass.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Sarah Baker