Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Description:

Experience Mount St HelensTrail, Road, & Visitor Center Conditions ReportNorth/West Side via State Highway 504 The massive landslide and blast of the 1980 eruption traveled north and west from the mountain.  The landscape on this side was scoured, but is returning to life.  Visitor centers along highway 504 tell the story and provide stunning crater views.  Trails let visitors explore the rebirth or access areas slower to recover. View from Johnston Ridge Observatory East Side via National Forest Roads 25 and 99 This more remote side of the mountain illustrates the stark line between old growth forest and the Blast Zone.  Visitors here can witness the standing dead forest, enjoy interpretive talks, gaze into a log-strewn lake, and access the backcountry and Pumice Plain.  The end point provides the closest view of the crater accessible by car. View from Norway Pass, overlooking Spirit Lake South Side via State Route 503 and Forest Roads 90 and 83Much of the south side forest was untouched in the 1980 eruption, and areas of old growth can still be found there.  Recent and millennia-old eruptions shaped the south side, creating underground lava tubes and lahar flows.  This is the place for winter recreation, climbing the mountain, as well as a multitude of other recreation opportunities. Mountain bike or hike through old growth forests along the Ape Canyon Trail and arrive here just before you enter the Plains of Abraham Explore Mount Margaret BackcountryThis hidden gem of the Monument has 5,000' jagged peaks packed with mountain goats, elk and wildlife galore.  Learn how to obtain a permit to backpack in the Mount Margaret Backcountry. Lakes Trail 211 overlooking Panhandle Lake in the Mount Margaret Backcountry Note: Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument is within Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Directions:

Phone:

Email:

r6_gp_forest@fs.fed.us

Address:

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Activities:

Biking

Organization:

FS - USDA Forest Service