Purcell Mountain

A challenging 7.5-mile long trail with 4,500 feet of elevation gain near Randle in East Lewis County. The trail gets steep right away from the Highway and gains 3,000 feet in the first 3 miles in forest making it an excellent conditioner. Enjoy views of volcanoes from the top.

getting there

Drive US-12 to just under 6 miles east of "downtown" Randle. On the north side of US-12 is the trailhead and on the south side, a small gravel parking lot (950 ft).

on the trail

Hike the Purcell Mountain Trail (No. 284). At 5.5 miles,  the trail starts to break out of dense forest into some small meadows with fantastic views on the ridge. Reach the junction with the Purcell Lookout Trail (No. 285) about a mile before the summit. Stay straight and  head to the top (5,442 ft). It's 12 miles

Alternative: At 7 miles round trip with 2,000 feet of elevation gain, The Purcell Lookout Trail (No. 285) is shorter and brushy option that switchbacks  up from Forest Road 63.

  • Difficulty: Strenuous/Very Strenuous
  • Length: 15.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 4,500 ft
  • 5,442 ft
  • Land Manager: Gifford Pinchot National Forest
    Cowlitz Valley Ranger District (GPNF)
  • Parking Permit Required: None
  • Recommended Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
  • Green Trails Randle No. 301
Activities

Upcoming Activities

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Trip Reports
Titles

This is a list of titles that represent the variations of trips you can take at this route/place. This includes side trips, extensions and peak combinations. Not seeing a title that fits your trip? Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.

  • Purcell Mountain Lookout
  • Purcell Mountain Trail
  • Purcell Lookout
  • Purcell Lookout Trail
Resources

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