When you think about Washington’s greatest hiking spots, Randle probably isn’t the place that comes to mind. Located in eastern Lewis County near Mt. St. Helens, there’s not much to the area in terms of amenities. But this is where you’ll find a short, sweet trail that provides a nice immersion into our ancient human history.

This short (0.4 miles, round trip) trail is just a quick detour off the main route south of Randle that transports visitors into the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
debra falkenstein / alltrails.com
The trailhead is almost unnoticeable, located at a curve in the road about 1.6 miles in from Forest Road 23.
Despite being a short and sweet hike, this trail offers stunning views of Mt. Adams and the Cispus Valley.
Brien Foss / alltrails.com

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Before you know it, you'll reach Layser Cave, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Washington.
debra falkenstein / alltrails.com
Animal bones and stone tools found on the floor of the cave and buried in the soil layers helped experts piece together a history of more than 7,000 years.
This dark, cool cave doesn't look like much, but it allows you to imagine what the people were like who shared this space thousands of years before us.
Lynn Naegeli / alltrails.com
Signs along the trail help explain how archaeologists pieced together the story of the cave's use. Discovered in 1982, it was full of animal bones, stone tools, and other artifacts.
If you're ever in the area, check out this unique trail, duck into the small cave, and imagine what life used to be like.
Shawn Kelso / alltrails.com
You may even make a discovery yourself.

If you enjoy hiking with a side of history, check out these local trails that lead to extraordinary ruins.

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