Stevens Canyon

Description:

• This trail leads five miles through Stevens Canyon with five waterfalls being the main attraction of the hike. It is a moderate hike with the upstream trek gaining approximately 1,100 feet. This trail can be completed as an easy overnight backpack, a moderate one way shuttle hike or a long out and back day hike.

  This trail meets Stevens Canyon Road at the beginning and ending of the canyon. The downstream trailhead lies at the Box Canyon Picnic Area. This description will follow the trail from this trailhead to Martha Falls, the last of the waterfalls within the canyon.

  Begin this hike from the Box Canyon Exhibit Area and walk north along the Wonderland Trail. The first mile of the trail leads through Box Canyon losing elevation slightly. This portion of the trail parallels the Muddy Fork of the Cowlitz River. Approximately three quarters of a mile from the trailhead you'll notice a spur trail leading to a river overlook.

  A mile from the Box Canyon Exhibit the trail turns westward and begins a short descent to the Stevens Creek. After descending for a quarter mile and losing 240 feet of elevation the tread crosses the Stevens Creek immediately downstream of an unnamed waterfall. From this point the trail parallels the southern bank of Stevens Creek and begins to ascend slowly.

  One mile from the Stevens Creek Crossing the trail reaches Maple Creek Camp, lying on the eastern shore of this small creek. Shortly beyond the Maple Creek Camp access trail, Stevens Canyon Trail crosses Maple Creek. About a quarter mile upstream from the trail is Maple Falls, visible form the stream crossing.

  Ascending gradually for a mile and a quarter you'll reach Sylvia Falls, which is partially covered by large trees. Beyond this feature the trail ascends more steeply, gaining 400 feet in the next mile to reach Martha Falls. This waterfall lies along Unicorn Creek, which is the inlet and outlet stream for Snow Lake. Beyond Martha Falls the trail climbs steeply to Stevens Canyon Road, where it crosses the road and continues on to Louise Lake and Reflection Lakes.