Siouxon Peak Loop

This strenuous trek from creek to peak offers up-close views of impressive waterfalls and far-off views of Cascade volcanoes.

Start by heading upstream on the Siouxon Creek Trail for 3.2 miles to the Wildcat Trail. Turn left to check the water level on Siouxon Creek; you’ll be fording it on your return.

Continuing on the Siouxon Creek Trail, cross the slick-rock base of 14-Mile Falls at 3.9 miles, then turn left at the signed junction. Cross a sturdy wooden footbridge over Siouxon Creek’s narrow chasm, and parallel Chinook Creek to the plunge pool below 50-foot Chinook Falls.

Negotiate the ankle-deep ford at the outlet, and pick up the trail. Turn right at the signed junction, and begin climbing up the Chinook Creek drainage. At 7.1 miles, join FR 6403 and bear left. Pause here for views of Mounts Adams, St. Helens and Rainier.

Continue to a clearing with stellar views of Mount St. Helens and the Swift Reservoir before picking up real trail again. One last bit of climbing gains the shark-fin summit ridge of Siouxon Peak at 8.1 miles. Take the narrow, brushy side trail to the 4,170-foot summit.

From this former lookout site, spy Swift Reservoir, framed by Mount Rainier and Mount Adams. Descend back to the main trail and turn left. It’s an easy amble from here to Wildcat Trail at 9.3 miles.

Climb to a forested knoll surrounded by ghostly snags from the Yacolt Burn, and steel yourself for a knee-fatiguing descent more than 2,000 feet in 2.5 miles. Your reward, at 11.9 miles, is 225-foot Wildcat Falls. From the viewpoint, descend 0.25 mile to the ford at Siouxon Creek. Rejoin the Siouxon Creek Trail, and turn right for the 3.2-mile return to the trailhead.

WTA Pro Tip: If the creek is running high (as it often does in spring and early summer), save Siouxon Peak for a later date and try nearby Horseshoe Ridge instead.