Trail Overview

This route covers all of section 1 of the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route (WABDR) from Carson to Packwood. Weather and route conditions can vary significantly from one area to the next, especially in early spring or late fall. This route is mostly impassible in winter due to snow. Early spring will have snow and mud, with blown-down trees blocking the trail. Numerous opportunities exist for dispersed camping, with sights along the route, such as overlooks, caves, and waterfalls. Views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, and Mt. St. Helens are along the way.

Photos of Washington Backcountry Discovery Route Section 1

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Difficulty

With good conditions in the summer, this route is a rating of 1, and likely passible with any type of vehicle. Weather and route conditions can vary greatly from one area to the next, especially in early spring or late fall. This route is mostly impassible in winter due to snow. Early spring will have snow and mud, with blown down trees blocking the trail.

Technical Rating

Chauncy G

Nov 19, 2025

Open

Sink hole at mile 3.9 to mile 4.2 6808 / Bear creek RD . Closed until further notice. if it's like some of the roads in the area that experienced the same fate it will be years before it reopens .

Dan Holte

Oct 18, 2025

Open

Kali Clara

Oct 18, 2025

Open

David Hardy

Oct 11, 2025

Open

Gravel roads were wet with puddles but all passable. Pavement was wet and safe. Started in Klickitat, back roads to Carson then up to the WBCDR. section 1. camped at Walupt Lake. snowed in the morning. rained all day Saturday and Sunday. Stopped at Gulver Ice Caves and a few points if interest along the way. 150 miles in two days. 8 hrs of driving.

mike ROTH

Sep 02, 2025

Open

Jordan G

Aug 07, 2025

Open

Trail is more so like a fire road. gorgeous forest and views are along this route. If you have a dirtbike or enjoy hiking this area is perfect with its breath taking views and endless trails.

Adrian Hernandez

Jul 31, 2025

Open

Rachel C

Jul 29, 2025

Open

Nate Zinn

Jun 07, 2025

Open

Chris Harris

Jun 07, 2025

Open

will pynn

May 31, 2025

Open

MP 32 still nearly 2 ft of snow

bill Jurcich

May 30, 2025

Open

Connor Tennant

Dec 17, 2024

Open

Don Hopkins

May 18, 2024

Open

Cleared the trail of 12+ trees that had fallen across the road. Made it all the way up to Flattop from the Oregon Border before needing to turn back due to deep snow. 3 vehicles in the group. ‘19 Forester Sport (stock), Jeep Wrangler with 1.5” Lift on 33’s, Toyota Sequoia with a 2” Lift on 35’s. Had to do a recovery on the Wrangler with the Sequoia, as it high centered. Great trip!

Kawika Varde

Mar 16, 2024

Open