Horse Creek

Horse Creek is an out-and-back road that offers a changing character of tracks, shifting from graded stretches to loose gravel, hard-packed dirt, and patches of cobblestone. The lower section is rougher, especially on the climb toward Lake Fizrenken, where rain-cut ruts pose a challenge to low-clearance vehicles. You will find a great campsite at the lake with a 30-foot scramble down to the lakeside. Beyond the lake, the surface gradually evens out, transitioning into smoother gravel and sharper elevation gains. The views get better as you ascend to the high point, especially overlooking the Nisqually River valley.

Descending from the high point to the road end, the brush thickens, and the corridor closes in, which may leave streaks of pinstriping on your rig. The tightest part is just before the end of the trail, where you will find another lovely campsite.

Access to this road is dependent on FS 52 "Skate Creek" seasonal snow closure, snow melt, and road conditions. Contact Cowlitz Valley Ranger District at (360) 497-1100 for closure updates, or check the “Current Conditions” section on the ranger district website.