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 Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument - Gifford Pinchot National Forest - Washington Posted by:  Hikenutty
N 46° 16.511 W 122° 13.010
10T E 560341 N 5124920
The Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. This location, the Johnston Observatory Visitor Center, is open over the spring and summer, unless volcanic activity closes it.
Waymark Code: WM3GCF
Location: Washington, United States
Date Posted: 04/02/2008
Views: 54
Mt. St. Helens is a very active stratovolcano that had a catastrophic eruption in 1980 that blew half of the mountain off and created destructive lehars that decimated the Toutle River Valley below. It is currently spewing steam and ash, and rapidly growing a lava dome and a new ridge. The steam from the largest vent on the lava dome is seen in the photo.
The National Volcanic Monument is a 110,300 acre tract of land which includes the mountain, ape caves, Coldwater Lake, and Lava Canyon. It is located within the 1,368,300 acre Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Johnston Observatory Visitor Center, which is open late spring through early fall, has the best views of the crater and lava dome. If you have kids be sure to ask about their Junior Ranger educational program. The center was named for volcanologist David Johnston, who was killed on Coldwater Ridge in 1980 during Mt. St. Helens' famed eruption. There is a $3 fee to use the Volcanic Monument Visitor Centers and trails.
Estimated size of the public land (in regional measurement standard: hectares, acres, kms, etc.): 110,300 acres (part of 1,368,300 acre Gifford Pinchot National Forest)
Is there a trail system?: Yes
If there is a trail system, please describe length, terrain, etc.:
The mountain may be climbed, however a permit must be applied for and if you are chosen, purchased. See http://www.fs.fed.us/gpnf/recreation/mount-st-helens/ for more information about the climb.
What points of interest are there?:
Volcano, lahar damaged areas, Coldwater Lake
What activities are available?:
hiking
Hours of accessibility?: 24/7 when the road is open
List of known hazards (cliffs, snakes, poison plants, etc.):
Snakes (during summer), volcano (check forest service Website for current volcanic activity)
Dogs Allowed?: No
Is a permit/fee required?: Yes
If a permit/fee is required please describe in detail how to get one, how much, etc.:
Permit is obtained within the visitor center for $3
Please supply the website of the land if available: [Web Link]
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Visit Instructions:
Visitors are encouraged to supply a picture of either themselves or their GPS at the trailhead and/or signage of the public access lands - describe your experience there and what you saw - tell us why other folks should come visit!
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