Red Mountain Lookout via Indian Racetrack
View PhotosRed Mountain Lookout via Indian Racetrack
Difficulty Rating:
Red Mountain Lookout via Indian Racetrack is a 6.5mi hike in Gifford Pinchot National Forest. This hike is moderately difficult and suitable for most skill levels. It’s worth the bit of climbing it requires, with views over four major mountain peaks and a pleasant trail to the top. Expect moderate traffic on this hike.
Getting there
The trailhead for Indian Racetrack is on Forest Road 65.
About
Backcountry Campground | Falls Creek Horse Camp |
When to do | March-October |
Pets allowed | Yes - On Leash |
Family friendly | Yes |
Route Signage | Average |
Crowd Levels | Moderate |
Route Type | Out and back |
Red Mountain Lookout via Indian Racetrack
Elevation Graph
Weather
Red Mountain Lookout via Indian Racetrack Description
Red Mountain is an underrated spot in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, with great views of local peaks and not too much work required to reach them. This hike follows Indian Racetrack, a pleasant trail with marshes, forest, and lakes to admire.
Indian Heaven is notorious for its summer mosquitoes, so we recommend visiting in August or September when the bugs don’t tend to be as bad. Bring a good spray.
From the trailhead just north of the horse camp, head across the creek. The elevation gain is moderate but fairly consistent as you hike the well-maintained trail. Go straight through the junction just after a small lake and start your final climb over the false summit and then to Red Mountain. Enjoy the view of Mount Rainier, Mount Saint Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Hood before retracing your steps to the trailhead.
Insider Hints
This trail can be marshy, so we recommend waterproof boots if you’re visiting in a wet season.
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