Madison Creek to Glines Canyon Spillway Overlook

There is a restroom at the parking lot; there was another one at the end of the trail by the overlook but it was locked so go before you start. A lot of muddy areas, some slippery parts but over all good trail. You start off on the road then cut your way through the Forrest and then back on the road again until you reach the overlook.

Mostly on a road and not that near the river for the majority of it

use the side trail by the river

You are on a road or you can go up on trails in the trees. We did both. Road is closed to cars so is a nice wide walking path. The river is beautiful and you hear it the whole time and you can go down to it too. Ended our hike by going to the waterfall, almost missed it.

Great hike and it’s interesting to see how the land is recovering after the dam removal. It was cool to see some spawning Coho

Very easy trail, but still nice if you’re looking for something casual and quick. Paved at first, and then a bit of hiking through the trees, and then a long stretch of road.

We were able to see many salmon spawning which was one of the most amazing things I've ever seen!! There are two main spots where you can easily see them - on the bridge a bit beyond where the washout is and immediately after you get off the bypass trail to where the old road starts again. Without the salmon, I would give this trail 4 stars. Seeing the dam and restoration project was very interesting. There was almost no one else on the trail so there is a lot of solitude. And the bypass trail is quite beautiful through the forest. Only downside was walking directly on the road for part of the hike. Would recommend trying this one out! Keep in mind the bypass portion is very steep in parts, both on the way there and the way back.

I love this trail. Gets hot on the ash fault, but lots of opportunities to cool off in the river!

Super rewarding

Good afternoon hike. We took bypass trail on the way up and lower path by river on the way back. Last point has a nice view and a lot of fascinating info. The downside for us is paved road which was the most of the trail. But hey someone will like it. On the by pass we took detour to overlook. It’s a little path up. Glad we did. It was nice view there.

The historical record of the dam removal at the overlook makes a longish walk on asphalt totally worth it!

There’s cougars out there. Didn’t even make it to the pretty parts before hearing something big jumping down and rustling in the bushes. I’m assumed it’s a big scary cat or something worse and then noped out. I left and then checked out the falls instead.

Conditions are dry and beautiful!

Mostly pavement walking,although a thin layer of pine needles are starting to gather along the sides of the road. Makes for more cushioned walking Bypass trail very well marked. A little steep in places, but nothing a good pair of hiking shoes or boots can't handle. I did not feel the need for poles.

I had no issues with the road to the parking area. I got there at 10am and found a parking spot with no problem. Some things to note. The majority of the trail is on pavement (a closed road) with the exception of the bypass trail. The bypass trail has two steep elevations, but they are doable. After you complete the bypass trail you will be back on pavement for the remainder of the hike. The pavement gets hot, therefore you are going to be hot. Just because both ends of the roads are “closed” you should still be alert for traffic. We passed a truck bringing in backpackers on the overlook side of the trail and researchers on the parking side of the closed road. There are several opportunities to be next to the water. We picnicked out on the rocks. All and all it was quiet and we were left alone to explore and enjoy the sights without tons of other hikers pushing us along.

Trail is in great condition and well maintained. Steep uphill and down hill if you take the beginning of the bypass trail. Also uphill most of the way to the dam, but the view is worth it.

The view of the [retired] spillway is a great payoff, and a beautiful view upstream and down. This was a nice respite from the other crowded trails---as much as I've enjoyed those as well, it was wonderful to hear nothing but wind and river. There are some good opportunities to hang out by the river, and there is a trail to a picnic area (or so says the sign, I didn't see it til after lunch) just off the bridge shortly before the spillway.

I wish I would have brought a bike. I haven’t attempted it yet but I believe I could get to the hot springs and back down in a day if covering most of the mileage on a bike. If anyone has done this I would be interested.

Everyone picnics by parking lot or goes to Madison Falls so this trail is very peaceful and wide open. Took me an hour and a half one way with overlook trail added.

Steep hills at the beginning, but overall a nice trail with amazing views! Found parking and there were a few bathroom stops along the way.

Beautiful river views as far as we got! We took the Forest Loop off of the Bypass Trail and something very large and very loud growled at us twice - probably a cougar. We didn't stay to check!

Beautiful, paved trail on an abandoned road. Good, quiet spots to dip into the river along the way and cool off as well!

Mostly paved. The road is washed out for about a mile long section where you detour, so keep that in mind. Great views, excellent information regarding the dam removal, and overall a good time!

Lots of good points to get in the river

Beautiful hike! Loved seeing where the damn got removed and the informational posts

Muddy on the bipass. But, hey, at least dogs are allowed there and on the road

Great hike and very nice informational display at the removed damn site

Great trail! Mostly on a road, but well within the trees, so you don’t feel like you aren’t hiking honestly! Was great to bring the dog. Oh, and the lookout makes a great proposal spot, just so you know!

Beautiful day with sun and a breeze