The Mount St. Helens Visitor Center is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, seven days a week, until September 29, 2024. It will be closed for renovations from September 30, 2024, to mid-May 2025.
On the east and south sides, a National Forest Recreation Pass is $5 per vehicle per day or $30 annual. On the west side, a Monument Pass is $8 per adult, free for children 15 and under. America the Beautiful passes are also accepted.
From Seattle, head south to Castle Rock, then take State Route 504 east, a scenic drive through lush forests and into the dramatic blast zone, culminating at the Johnston Ridge Observatory.
At Mount St. Helens, parking is available for cars, RVs, and motorcycles at various sites, including the Johnston Ridge Observatory, which can accommodate RVs. Parking fees apply, such as $5 per vehicle at developed sites. Overnight parking is not permitted. Pets are restricted in some areas.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, situated in the Pacific Northwest, is a landscape of stark beauty and resilient life. This 110,000-acre monument, created in 1982, encompasses the area around the iconic stratovolcano, Mount St. Helens, in Washington State. The terrain, once a lush forest, now boasts a gray, ash-covered landscape where surviving plants and animals have begun to colonize.
As you explore the monument, you’ll find numerous viewpoints and miles of trails, including the popular Loowit Trail, which encircles the volcano. The Johnston Ridge Observatory, though occasionally closed, offers interpretive displays that delve into the geological, biological, and cultural history of the area. In the summer, Forest Service interpreters lead walks, talks, and amphitheater presentations, while winter brings cross-country ski and snowmobile trails.
The Toutle River, which flows through the monument, is home to various fish species, and the Toutle River Sediment Retention Structure is a testament to the region’s engineering feats. The Hoffstadt Creek Bridge, a significant stop on the Spirit Lake Memorial Highway, stands as a marvel of construction, offering an overlook into the blast zone.
Seasonal changes are striking here; summer brings vibrant wildflowers, while winter transforms the area into a serene snowscape. Each year, thousands of climbers ascend to the crater rim, requiring permits above 4,800 feet. Local outfitters offer guided hikes and climbing expeditions, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.
Nearby, the charming towns of Castle Rock and Cougar provide artisanal shops and local eateries, enhancing the overall experience. The monument’s annual events, such as ranger-led walks and educational programs, further enrich the visit. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply someone drawn to the beauty of rebirth, Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience.
- Area (mi²)
- 172
- Annual visitors
- 500 000
- Established year
- 1982
Top 3 Facts about Mount St. Helens Volcanic National Monument
During the 1980 eruption, the summit elevation was reduced by approximately 1,370 feet (416 meters) from 9,677 feet to 8,307 feet, and an estimated 1 cubic mile of rock was removed, creating a 2 x 3.5 km horseshoe-shaped crater.
In this volcanic landscape, Roosevelt elk and Columbia black-tailed deer roam freely, drawn to the rich summer forage and winter grasses. Mountain goats graze on alpine slopes, while rainbow trout swim in Spirit Lake. Prairie lupine flowers enrich the soil, allowing other vegetation to thrive. The area is also home to endangered fish species like Chinook salmon and steelhead trout, and the sweet surprise of wild strawberries blooming amidst the rugged terrain.
Witness the dramatic landscape where a 5.1 magnitude earthquake triggered a massive rock debris avalanche, sending a slab of rock and ice slamming into Spirit Lake and crossing a 1,300-foot ridge. The resulting eruption created a turbulent, stone-filled wind that toppled trees across nearly 150 square miles, leaving behind a vast, gray landscape. Today, the environment recovers naturally, with searing flows of pumice and wet, cement-like slurries of rock and mud sculpting the terrain. The area’s rugged beauty is underscored by the Toutle River, which roars 14 miles down from the volcano’s base.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days for summer’s wildflower bloom or winter’s snowshoeing. Start early, check park conditions, and pack food and water. Visit the visitor center, then hike trails like Loowit or Johnston Ridge. Anticipate rocky terrain and rest often. Limited dining options on site.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for unpredictable weather, sturdy hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, and a first aid kit. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection. For longer stays, include a backpack, camping gear, and extra clothing.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the delicate ecosystem by staying on trails, avoiding disturbance of unique flora and fauna, and being mindful of seasonal habitats. Bring layers for unpredictable weather and leave no trace to preserve this biological hot spot.
Stay Informed
Exercise caution on trails and ledges, and stay informed about weather and fire restrictions. Avoid hot springs and fast-moving water. For emergencies, call park authorities at 911 or the park’s visitor center. Stay on marked paths to ensure safety.
Seasons
In spring, from late April to early June, temperatures range from 40°F to 60°F, with mild weather and blooming wildflowers. Visit before the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center reopens in mid-May to avoid crowds. Enjoy the final public event before renovations and hike through lush, rejuvenated landscapes. ⚠️ Be cautious of late-spring snow and potential avalanches.
Summer brings warm temperatures (60s-80s°F) and clear skies, ideal for hiking, kayaking, and biking through lush wildflowers and new forests. Join Base Camp in June or August for a unique adventure amidst this volcanic landscape.
Experience autumn’s vibrant hues and mild temperatures (40s-60s°F) with fewer crowds. Enjoy the final public event before the visitor center’s renovation closure, and hike through colorful red bushes and low-growing foliage. Ideal for immersive outdoor adventures.
Winter’s chill brings serene beauty from December to February, with temperatures often below 25°F and winds up to 25 mph. Crisp days with minimal precipitation offer a rare, rugged experience, but be prepared for harsh conditions and potential whiteouts. For the adventurous, it’s a unique winter wonderland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Mount St. Helens Volcanic National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Mount St. Helens is Castle Rock, Washington. It is also relatively close to Kelso and Longview, Washington, which are about 30-40 miles away. Portland, Oregon, is approximately 50 miles to the southwest.
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Dogs are allowed in external areas, parking areas, and along paved roads, but they must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. They are permitted on a few specific trails but are prohibited on most trails and certain areas like the Johnston Ridge Observatory.ディース
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There are fees for accessing certain areas, but they are not specifically parking fees. On the west side, a Monument Pass is $8 per adult, while on the east and south sides, a National Forest Recreation Pass is $5 per day per vehicle or $30 annual. America the Beautiful passes are also accepted.
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Visit the Johnston Ridge Observatory for expansive views of the volcano and crater, though it is currently closed due to a landslide. Hike to Loowit Viewpoint or the Windy Ridge Interpretive Site for close-up crater views and panoramas of Spirit Lake and the pumice fields. Enjoy various outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and guided hikes with geologists, available in all seasons.