The new trailhead at about 400"" elevation led us into an old cedar forest now protected under the Trapper Creek Wilderness. With umbrellas open and/or rain gear, we found the 3.7 miles deeply contouring this way and that on lush rainforest hillsides and across subtle drainages. With ups and downs, 1,000' is gained netwise in a non-snow environment today. Although one appreciates this natural scene, there is a sense of wanting to push upward more onto the open ridge leading to Observation Peak and its far vistas, including Mt. St. Helens. Despite the efforts of the trail construction folks, it still is nice to drive an additional mile past the new trailhead road onward to the Government Mineral Springs loop and campground, and start hiking there. Once past the Soda Peaks Lake trail junction, the hiker can cross Trapper Creek and connect with the main trail. It has been said many hike Trapper so they can stop at Carson Hot Springs on the way home for a soak and massage.