Mt Adams & Mt St Helens Panoramic Road

Experience a breathtaking road trip from Cougar to Packwood, through the scenic Mt. Adams and Mt. St. Helens Panoramic Road. Along the way, you’ll pass through Northwoods, Randle and Takhlakh Lake, offering the chance to take in the natural beauty of the area. The 208km journey should take roughly a day to complete and is best experienced in the spring or summer months. The road is scenic and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, but it should be noted that the overall road conditions are poor. Despite this, the journey is suitable for all drivers and can be done on a moderate budget. This road trip offers an unforgettable experience, with plenty of chances to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Cougar, Washington is the perfect starting point for the Mt Adams & Mt St Helens Panoramic Road trip. Located in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, Cougar is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views, Cougar offers a variety of activities for all kinds of travelers. From Cougar, visitors can take a short drive to nearby Lava Canyon and enjoy a scenic hike along the canyon's rim. Alternatively, visitors can take a leisurely drive to the nearby town of Wind River and experience its stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge. One of the most popular sights in Cougar is the Ape Cave, an underground lava tube formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. For visitors traveling to Cougar by air, the closest international airport is Portland International Airport (PDX). From here, car rentals are available for those wishing to explore the area. With its stunning natural beauty, Cougar is the perfect starting point for the Mt Adams & Mt St Helens Panoramic Road trip. Whether you're a hiker, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking to enjoy some breathtaking views, Cougar has something for everyone.

Welcome road-trippers! Let's take a look at the stage of your road trip that starts in Cougar, United States and ends in Northwoods. This stage is 18mi long and takes less than 1 hour to drive, so you have plenty of time to explore the most interesting places along the way. In Cougar, you should definitely visit the Cougar Hot Springs. It's a great spot to relax and take in the beautiful views. If you're looking for something a bit more active, the nearby Terwilliger Hot Springs are perfect for a swim. As you continue your journey, you'll come across the magnificent Columbia River Gorge. This is a great place to take in the stunning scenery and take some memorable photos. Finally, you'll arrive in Northwoods. Here you can explore the lush forests and take a walk through the trails. You can also visit the nearby waterfalls and get some amazing views of the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Are you ready for a stunning road trip? Start your journey in Northwoods, United States, and drive 44 miles to Mt. St. Helens National Park. Here, you can explore the volcanic landscape, visit the Johnston Ridge Observatory and take a hike to the crater of the volcano. Afterward, head to Randle, located less than 2 hours away, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Adams and the Cispus River. Be sure to make stops at the many viewpoints, such as the Windy Ridge Viewpoint and the Coldwater Lake Viewpoint. While in the area, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Ape Cave, the longest lava tube in the United States. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Randle to Takhlakh Lake? This route will take you through some of the most beautiful places in the United States. You will be able to enjoy a 31mi drive in fewer than 2 hours. Starting in Randle, you can visit the popular Gifford Pinchot National Forest, an area of incredible beauty, with its lush forests, majestic mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you'll love the many activities available here, such as camping, fishing, and hiking. The second stop is the Takhlakh Lake Campground, located on the edge of the lake. Here, you can enjoy a variety of water sports and activities, including fishing, swimming, and kayaking. You can also take a leisurely stroll around the lake and explore the surrounding area. Finally, you will arrive in Takhlakh Lake. This is a great spot for a picnic or a romantic evening stroll. There are also plenty of opportunities for bird watching, as the lake is home to many species of waterfowl. This is only a brief description of the Randle to Takhlakh Lake road trip, but there is much more to explore and discover along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

A road-tripper's dream awaits you on this 37mi drive from Takhlakh Lake to Packwood! Start your journey at Takhlakh Lake, where you can enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Adams. Take a break to explore the lake, and don't forget to bring your camera! As you continue your drive, you'll come across the Mt. Adams Wilderness, where you can take a short hike to the summit of Mt. Adams and take in the incredible views of the surrounding area. Finally, you'll arrive in Packwood, where you can enjoy the small-town charm. No matter how long you stay, there's plenty to see and do in this area. Visit the Packwood Flea Market for some unique souvenirs, or take a drive up to the White Pass Ski Area for some outdoor adventure. And don't forget to take some time to explore the surrounding forests and lakes. Your journey ends in Packwood, but the adventure doesn't have to. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip today!

Packwood, Washington is a delightful small town nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. Located at the end of the Mt Adams & Mt St Helens Panoramic Road, Packwood is a perfect destination for those looking for a quiet getaway in nature. Packwood offers plenty of outdoor activities for nature-lovers, such as hiking and horseback riding in the nearby Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Fishing, rafting and kayaking are some of the popular activities in the nearby Cowlitz River. For those looking for a more leisurely activity, Packwood offers a 9-hole golf course with stunning mountain views. Packwood is also home to some charming historical attractions. The Packwood Museum is a great place to explore the town's past, while the nearby White Pass Ski Area offers a variety of outdoor activities throughout the winter. Those traveling by car can take advantage of the convenient location of Packwood, which is within easy reach of Seattle and Portland. For those flying in, the closest international airport is Sea-Tac Airport (SEA). Packwood is the perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful getaway with plenty of activities for all types of travelers. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat in nature or a fun-filled adventure, Packwood has something for everyone.

Before you set off

Embark on an awe-inspiring Road Trip from Cougar to Packwood, a journey that traverses the captivating landscapes surrounding Mt. Adams and Mt. St. Helens. This route offers a day filled with breathtaking vistas, volcanic wonders, and rich natural ecosystems that embody the Pacific Northwest's beauty.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

As you hit the Road, expect to encounter quaint communities like Northwoods and Randle, each offering a glimpse into the local charm. A must-visit is the tranquil Takhlakh Lake, a mirror-like body of water that reflects the grandeur of Mt. Adams. Key highlights of this Trip are the impressive sights of Mt. Adams and Mt. St. Helens, two of the Pacific Northwest's iconic volcanoes. These natural landmarks present exceptional photography opportunities and allow for immersive nature experiences, such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and learning about the area's geology and recovery following volcanic eruptions.

Best Time to Go:

To fully enjoy the splendor of the journey, plan your Road Trip during the spring or summer. These seasons boast clearer skies and milder weather, enhancing visibility of the mountains and providing more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.

Potential Risks:

Drivers should be prepared for stretches of Road that may be in less than ideal condition, necessitating careful navigation. Seasonal weather patterns, especially during fall and winter, can also introduce hazards like snow or ice.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

The journey covers approximately 208 kilometers (129 miles) and is achievable within one day, making it an excellent choice for a memorable excursion. This Trip is accessible to drivers of all skill levels, and the costs involved are moderate, allowing for a wide range of travelers to take part. While traveling, you'll be following paths that weave through the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, an area known for its diverse ecosystems and home to over 1,300 plant species.

A good choice for:

Taking this Road Trip means more than just driving from point A to point B; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the enchanting and dynamic landscapes formed by Washington State's volcanic history. Whether you're seeking solitude by a mountain lake, the thrill of exploring rugged trails, or the simple joy of Scenic Drives, this adventure through the heart of the Cascade Range is bound to leave you with lasting impressions and a yearning to return.