I have a few insider tips for those heading to Kelso. First, since you will have to book your reservations online, there are two Kelso locations; one is the summit the second is the Kelso main entrance.
The main entrance takes you to the reservoir and fun activities such as the climbing tower, swimming, and kayaking. Although there is a cable car, it’s not necessary. You can also get to the summit walking, but it is a long climb; I’ve done it, and it’s steep and not for small kids or pets.
However, I recommend using the chairlift when you want to catch some breathtaking views, such as in the winter or the autumn seasons. Now, for my second tip. Kelso is mainly a place for bikers. I have been hiking there a few times. Be sure to move to the side for the bikers to speed by.
Trails at Kelso
There are an insane number of trails, almost 50, and of those 50, only two, Escarpment and Lime Kiln, are off-limits to the bikers. As there are so many, I won’t bore you with listing them all but will highlight some key points I feel are worthy of sharing.
The Kiln Ruins, listed on the trail map, don’t seem to be in that location. And to be honest, walking out there with a group of kids wasn’t ideal to keep digging around until we found some tangible evidence of their location.
That said, I know of others who explored the area (and beyond the trails) and found two silos, a furnace, and more. So, they are out there, and I will find them one day. Using the online trail map, they list four suggested hiking loops.
Keep in mind, however, that you will be walking for a couple of hours to see the views you seek, which takes you along the escarpment. If you choose to print a map ahead of time, the map online had some different trails listed compared to the map at the beginning of the paths.
I suggest taking a picture with your phone of the trails, so you don’t get lost. At the point of this map, just past the parking spots, there are two ways you can go; to the right is the path all hikers will take; otherwise, you are heading straight into bike territory.
