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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
487 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
10.5 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3-4.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Red Mountain Lookout via Indian Racetrack

Measurement:

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Table of contents

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.

Route Description for Red Mountain Lookout via Indian Racetrack

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 for Red Mountain Lookout via Indian Racetrack

  • This trail can be marshy, so we recommend waterproof boots if you’re visiting in a wet season.

Getting to the Red Mountain Lookout via Indian Racetrack Trailhead

The trailhead for Indian Racetrack is on Forest Road 65.

Route Information

  • 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 Forecast

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