Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Spectacular views from the north side of Mt St Helens. This side reveals her flat top AND the crater left behind from the massive blast in 1980! Weather was perfect. Can't wait to see it again on a clear day when it's snow-capped. Note: Johnston Ridge is closed and Coldwater Ridge has limited hours in the off season. Might be good to call ahead to make sure they are open.

This is a well thought out monument, from the trails to the construction of the highway. It is a truly stunning, unique, and mind-blowing piece of history. This volcano has some very close partners in crime that keep her company; Mt Rainer, to the north, Mt Adams to the east, and Mt Hood to the south. These represent just a small number of the volcanoes that are a part of the Pacific Crest and are among the tallest of all of them. There are numerous trails for every skill level that will take you on an extraordinary journey through the past and the present. The trails just off of the parking lot and memorial are quite easy and informative. There's numerous trail signs and informational boards explaining the history and geological events that have created what you are seeing today. I remember when this mighty sleeping giant blew its face and top, it was just before the end of my junior year, and all I could think of was what it would look like when I saw it again! From the devastation of that day to the beauty of what it has become is amazing. Mother Nature is resilient. This is a unique place that deserves our care. It's still very fragile, so please tread lightly, Happy trails, and as always, leave no trace (please), leave it better than you found it (please), and enjoy 😉!

What an amazing location. Do take time to visit the visitor centers and understand the importance and history of the place and the beauty you are surrounded by will have a different meaning. Treks are amazing and so are the locations here

The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument was busier with tour bus travelers. The exhibits at the national monument were fair, but not impressive. This facility was clean inside but the grounds were not well kept or trimmed. The restaurant was closed during peak tourist season, which was disappointing. The gift shop was small with minimal offerings. Staff were friendly and helpful. We were not impressed but it's about the only volcanic exhibit available at this time.

Great experience. Trails and views fantastic, visitors Center nice. Not over crowded.

Incredible area for viewing the volcano and surrounding lands. Nice little trails around the area full of interesting geological features and wildlife.

Great place to visit though its not the type of place to spend excessive time at.

Too much fog on my mid-September mid-morning visit to see anything. I did, however, visit the Science and Learning Center at Coldwater which was nice. The observation deck there allowed me to get a sneak peek at the lake below but mostly more fog.