This route is the perfect gateway to Mount Adams spectacular high country on its less-visited western side. It climbs through dense forests, past a small lake, then across Riley Meadows, which features great campsites, before joining the Pacific Crest Trail. From there you can continue on to Sheep Lake or head off-trail to check out Crystal Lake at the edge of the tree line. WTA volunteers restored a section of trail heading across Riley Meadows in 2009.
The trail starts out climbing at a pretty steep grade. After the first mile you're about 1,000 feet higher in elevation and the pitch flattens out at the Wilderness border. Then it climbs again passing a small lake at about 5,200 feet. Now the trees start to thin out and are broken by small openings with ephemeral ponds and some small meadows.
Once you reach Riley Meadows, Mount Adams comes into view. Look for posts to guide you across the meadows and stay to the south side of Riley creek to follow the trail. The route traverses Riley Creek across a broad rock strewn wash. Again look for posts (intalled by WTA volunteers) to lead the way. The last 1/8 mile climbs up to the jct with the PCT.
Riley Camp
46.2323,
-121.6272
Map & Directions
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Length
- 10.0 miles, roundtrip
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Elevation Gain
- 2,280 feet
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Highest Point
- 5,800 feet
This route is the perfect gateway to Mount Adams spectacular high country on its less-visited western side. It climbs through dense forests, past a small lake, then across Riley Meadows (great campsites!) before joining the PCT. From there you can continue on to Sheep Lake or head off-trail to check out Crystal Lake at the edge of the tree line.
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Hiking Riley Camp
WTA worked here in 2014 and 2009!
Map & Directions
Trailhead
Before You Go
WTA Pro Tip: Save a copy of our directions before you leave! App-based driving directions aren't always accurate and data connections may be unreliable as you drive to the trailhead.
Getting There
Follow I-84 east from the Portland/Vancouver Metro Area towards Hood River. Take exit 64 and cross the Hood River Bridge. Turn left on Hwy 14 and go 1.5 miles. Turn right (north) on WA-141 and go 19 miles to Trout Lake. From the intersection entering Trout Lake at the Chevron Station, go right onto Mt. Adams Road. Head north for 1.3 miles then bear left on Forest Service Rd 23 (Buck Crk Road). Follow Forest Service road 23 for about 17.5 miles and look for a possibly unmarked trailhead between mileposts 38 and 37 (they decrease going north).
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