The trail is worthwhile for its beginning and its destination, and because it hooks up to other trails as part of the evolving Chinook Trail. The middle section of the hike, however, is rather depressing. Clearcut logging and illegal ORV riding has really impacted this trail. Tire ruts fill up with water from rains with nowhere to drain.
Its northern trailhead is a quarter-mile downriver (west) from the bridge at Moulton Falls picnic area. The first mile climbs steadily up Bells Mountain, winding through stands of alder and Douglas-fir while gradually climbing to its southern terminus.
At 7.1 miles the route passes through Cold Creek Campground, then ends 1.5 miles further south at the Yacolt Burn Trailhead.
Hike Further
The Chinook Trail is accessed by turning left at the Yacolt Burn Trailhead onto the Tarbell Trail. To continue on the Chinook Trail route, follow the Tarbell Trail to the northeast past Rock Creek Campground, Tarbell Picnic Area and on to Kloochman Butte.