Must-Visit

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, located in Washington, offers a dramatic landscape shaped by the 1980 eruption, with sweeping views of the crater, lava domes, and recovering forests. Visitors can explore interpretive centers, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks, making it an ideal destination for learning about volcanic activity and enjoying outdoor adventures.

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

About the Attraction

A visit to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument in Washington offers a remarkable exploration of nature’s power and renewal. Here’s what to expect:

  • Dramatic Landscapes: Witness the striking transformation from the 1980 eruption, with vast gray plains, new lakes, and young forests emerging from the blast zone.
  • Engaging Visitor Centers: Interactive exhibits, theater programs, and scientific displays at centers like Johnston Ridge Observatory provide insight into the eruption, ongoing research, and the area’s recovery.
  • Outdoor Adventure: Over 200 miles of trails invite hiking, climbing, and wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see wildflowers, regenerating forests, and panoramic views of the crater.
  • Educational Opportunities: The monument is dedicated to research, recreation, and education, making it a living laboratory for understanding volcanic activity and ecological recovery.

It’s a must-see for those fascinated by geology, natural history, and the resilience of the environment.

Interactive Map

Audio Guide

Make the most of your visit. Listen to the Audio Guide for insider tips, fascinating facts, and stories that enrich your journey.

Hiking Adventure Map

Schedule

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM in summer, and from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM in winter.

Entrance Fee

Free
General Admission: Free to drive/visit most areas; Monument Pass $8/adult (Johnston Ridge area); East/Southside sites require National Forest Recreation Pass ($5/vehicle/day or $30/annual). Youth under 16: Free. Admission prices vary by location.
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