Hike Indian Bar - Cowlitz Divide via Box Canyon

Lewis County, Washington

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Details

Distance

14.64 miles

Elevation Gain

4235 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Joe Kiesel

Hike with great views of the valley, Mt. Rainier, waterfalls, rivers, and more.

There are multiple ways to access Indian Bar. This one starts at Box Canyon.

From the parking area at Box Canyon walk across the road and follow the signs for Wonderland Trail.

Head up the Wonderland trail through the trees to the split with the Cowlitz trail. Continue on the Wonderland Trail to the left and head up to Cowlitz divide. After a short while, the trees start thinning out and the views of Mt. Rainier, the valley, Mt. Adams, and wildflowers start to pick up. Wildflowers are usually present from June - August (sometimes a patch or two will last into September).

About 4.5 miles in blueberry bushes become plentiful. This area is a great place to spot black bear. Continue over the hills and get some great views of Rainier on your way down to Indian Bar.

Once at the bottom, there is a sign; left to bathroom, group campsites, and shelter, or right to cross the bridge over Wauhaukaupauken Falls to continue on the Wonderland trail or towards some backcountry campsites.

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Features

Camping

Photography

Backpacking

Hiking

Bathrooms

Easy Parking

Forest

River

Scenic

Waterfall

Wildflowers

Wildlife

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Leave No Trace

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