Loowit Trail
Overview
Proceed cautiously on this 29.6-mile loop trail near Cougar, Washington.
Generally considered a highly challenging route, it takes an average of 15 hours and 13 minutes to complete and should only be attempted by experienced adventurers. This loop circumnavigates Mount St. Helens and offers a striking variety of terrain—ranging from vast pumice fields and blast zones to forested sections and rocky ridgelines.
Popular for backpacking, hiking, and trail running, the trail still provides moments of solitude, especially during off-peak hours. It can be hiked in either direction and is most often done as a multi-day backpacking trip. Trekking poles are highly recommended due to uneven and exposed sections. Some parts of the route are extremely rocky and require careful footing.
Dogs are not allowed, and the best time to hike is from June through October. This is a strenuous route with little shade and limited water sources—plan accordingly.
Sights to See
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