Bird Creek Meadows

Bird Creek Meadows is a wildflower-filled subalpine slope on the southeast base of Mount Adams in the Yakima Nation Reservation (Tract D) Area. Mount Adams is the second tallest peak in Washington and is considered an active volcano. Hikers will enjoy a relaxed climb with numerous trail options that pass by stunning vistas, glacial streams, waterfalls and lakes. Backpackers will also find a great variety of backcounty camping opportunities along the various trails. If you are hiking in late August or early September, you'll likely find yourself surrounded by meadows teeming with a diverse variety of wildflowers. From Bird Lake you'll have the option to begin at either the Bird Lake Trail or the Bluff Lake Trail. If you start on the Bird Lake Trail, you'll have the opportunity to view Crooked Creek Falls. You can then finish the hike on the Bluff Lake Trail, passing Staircase Falls and Bluff Lake along the way. Both trails meet up with the Around the Mountain Trail that provides access to Hellroaring Viewpoint, Trail of the Flowers loop, the Bird Creek picnic area, and Bird Creek Meadows, all of which are in the same vicinity. Hellroaring Viewpoint provides an excellent picnic opportunity with a breathtaking glimpse of Mount Adams, Hellroaring Canyon and the Mazama Glacier. At the trailhead, Bird Lake Campground offers 21 campsites complete with running water, fire pits and picnic tables, many of which are located near the lake's shore.