This heavily used trail begins at Cultus Creek Campground, enters the wilderness and climbs semi-open slopes toward the summit of Bird Mountain, a 1.5-mile-long backbone ridge. The trail climbs 1,200 feet in elevation before passing through a saddle at 5,237 elevation where you will be rewarded with views of the west slope of Mt. Adams. Beyond the saddle, the trail enters large timber and eventually connects with the Pacific Crest Trail.

See overview map or detailed map.

Features of the Cultus Creek Trail are the abundant huckleberries and views of Mt. Rainier and the Goat Rocks, Sawtooth Mountain, and Sleeping Beauty.