8 to 10 hours (approx.)
Daily Tour
14 people
English
Once topped with a Mt. Fuji-like cone, Mt. Saint Helens was a premier camping destination surrounded by pristine forest. After a devastating eruption in 1980, the mountain lost its top, leaving significant blast zone scars and a new dammed lake. Get up close and personal to the volcano to learn about its fascinating past (and new growth) in its stunning natural setting. This tour can accommodate up to 12 people.
The stop includes an approximate 3 hours driving time from pick up locations:
Large, step-in model of the volcano
Life-size mannequins
Functioning seismograph and live feed of current Mount St. Helens volcano seismicity
Chronological timeline of events leading up to the volcanic blast on May 18, 1980
Theater program offered twice an hour; at :05 and :35 after.
Outdoors, visitors can explore Silver Lake along the 0.6 mile-long trail, including boardwalks over the wetland where a variety of aquatic plants and migratory waterfowl can be viewed at different times of the year.
4 hours • Admission Ticket Included
Coldwater Visitor Center overlooks Mount St. Helens and is within the Mount St. Helens National
Volcanic Monument. It is located along State Hwy 504, about 45 miles east of I-5. Built in 1993,
Coldwater Visitor Center is just over 24,600 sq. ft. between two floors.
Fantastic views of Mount St. Helens and close access to Coldwater Lake, which features picnic site, (non-motorized or electric motor) boat launch, accessible trails, fishing, restrooms, and parking.
1 hour • Admission Ticket Free
After this stop , we will head back – 3 hours drive time to drop off locations
A barrier-free, paved hike of less than one mile from the Johnston Ridge Observatory. The trail includes interpretive kiosks and 360 views of Mount St. Helens and the surrounding blast zone.
4 hours • Admission Ticket Included
On your way to or from the Johnston Ridge Observatory take a side-trip to Coldwater Lake formed by an avalanche during the volcano’s eruption. The lake is just a short distance off the highway. You’ll find a parking area with paths to the lake; restroom, boat launch (electric motors only) and trails (don’t throw away that wrist-band!). You will need them as proof that you’ve paid to visit or hike the trails inside the Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument. There are also hiking trails around Coldwater Lake
Coldwater Lake provides a tranquil ending to a long and scenic experience through a landscape that must be seen to believe.
1 hour • Admission Ticket Free