Avalanche Valley
Location: Mt. Adams
21 miles total, 4,500' gained
driving directions
trail map
topo map
forest service site
weather forecast for this area
This is an out-and-back hike to Avalanche Valley on the east side of Mt. Adams.
From the Muddy Meadows trailhead, the first few miles of this trip proceed through the forest on a well-used pack trail. However, upon reaching the Highline trail, things quickly change. The continuous views of Mt. Adams begin, the trees thin out and the environment evolves into a rocky, barren landscape. Mt. Rainier and the Goat Rocks loom in the near distance.
Follow the cairns and be prepared for creek crossings during the ascent, reaching the high point of Devils Gardens at 7,800'. Expect any weather - even during the summer - at this elevation. From the Gardens, getting to Avalanche Valley is just as much mental as it is physical. The trail is unmaintained and washed out in places, thus requiring modest route finding (see topo map) and patience. But with Mt. Adams never out of site, the inspiration just keeps coming. The climax is the unforgettable Avalanche Valley, with Goat Butte, the east side of Mt. Adams and pure spring water all to somehow absorb at once.
This can be a day hike, but that may not allow enough time to adequately process the area. Camping at Foggy Flats or just beyond is common (see trail map), with a subsequent day hike to the valley.
Due to the high elevation (and bugs at lower levels), this is best very late summer and early fall.
driving directions
trail map
topo map
forest service site
weather forecast for this area
This is an out-and-back hike to Avalanche Valley on the east side of Mt. Adams.
From the Muddy Meadows trailhead, the first few miles of this trip proceed through the forest on a well-used pack trail. However, upon reaching the Highline trail, things quickly change. The continuous views of Mt. Adams begin, the trees thin out and the environment evolves into a rocky, barren landscape. Mt. Rainier and the Goat Rocks loom in the near distance.
Follow the cairns and be prepared for creek crossings during the ascent, reaching the high point of Devils Gardens at 7,800'. Expect any weather - even during the summer - at this elevation. From the Gardens, getting to Avalanche Valley is just as much mental as it is physical. The trail is unmaintained and washed out in places, thus requiring modest route finding (see topo map) and patience. But with Mt. Adams never out of site, the inspiration just keeps coming. The climax is the unforgettable Avalanche Valley, with Goat Butte, the east side of Mt. Adams and pure spring water all to somehow absorb at once.
This can be a day hike, but that may not allow enough time to adequately process the area. Camping at Foggy Flats or just beyond is common (see trail map), with a subsequent day hike to the valley.
Due to the high elevation (and bugs at lower levels), this is best very late summer and early fall.
Mt. Adams from trailhead
Foggy Flat, Mt. Adams
Mt. Rainier, Highline trail
Goat Rocks in distance; Highline trail
Devils Gardens area
Goat Butte in distance; gap into Avalanche Valley
Goat Butte, Avalanche Valley
Avalanche Valley, Mt. Adams