Johnston Ridge Observatory

ALERT! Johnston Ridge Observatory is unreachable due to a landslide that occurred May 2023 that has closed both lanes of traffic on State Route 504. More info: South Coldwater Slide Information.

----

Located at the end of State Highway 504 (52 miles east of Castle Rock), in the heart of the blast zone, the observatory hosts interpretive displays that tell the biological, geological, and human story of Mount St. Helens. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the volcano and crater or set out on a hike in the blast.

In the summer, join a ranger talk or guided hike and learn about the events that occurred during the 1980 eruption and the changes that continue to transform the landscape. Ranger and Junior Ranger programs are offered daily, inquire about the schedule at our information desk. Services include a wide-screen theater presentation, interpretive exhibits, a staffed information desk and a Discover Your Northwest books sales area. There is a food cart in the parking lot at Johnston Ridge during the summer season.

Take a 0.5 mile walk on the Eruption Trail and learn how the eruption shaped the surrounding landscape. Visitors can expect to see views of the lava dome, crater, pumice plain, and the landslide deposit.

Map: Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument Map

Video: Accessible Adventures: Mt. St. Helens West Side Attraction

Camera: Volcano Camera at Johnston Ridge Observatory

(*This static image is from a USGS Cascades Volcano Observatory research camera at the Observatory, north of Mount St. Helens. View is to the south. Camera is to assist the USGS with situational awareness. At times, clouds, rain, and snow obscure visibility. Because this camera is located in a harsh environment, it may sporadically breakdown and go off-line for extended periods of time. The image refreshes every 5 minutes.)

Current Conditions

June 2025: Johnston Ridge Observatory is UNREACHABLE DUE TO A LANDSLIDE. This landslide has blocked both lanes of traffic past mile marker 45.2. A closure gate is located just past the Hummocks Trailhead at miler marker 45.2, preventing further travel on State Route 504. It is estimated that Johnston Ridge may be open in 2027, depending on repair work progress. Further updates on when the visitor center will open will be made available as soon as possible. Contact Mount. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument & District office for more information. 360-449-7800.

Active Alerts

Upper State Route 504 closed at milepost 45.2 due to large slide

General Information

To protect plant and animal life, and provide for visitor safety, pets are prohibited at the Johnston Ridge Visitor Center plaza and interpretive area. In all other areas pets must be on a leash. Lack of shade and summer heat can endanger pets left in cars! For the safety and comfort of your pet, please arrange to leave your pet at home when planning on spending time at the Visitor Center.

Johnston Ridge Observatory is closed for the foreseable future due to a landslide on State Route 504 around mile post 51.

Recreation Passes accepted for day use fee: America the Beautiful Interagency Passes (Senior, Senior Annual, Annual, Military, Access, and Fourth Grade Pass Interagency Passes). Northwest Forest Passes are also accepted. Get a pass.

Interagency Passes admit cardholder plus 3 adults (16 and older).

Northwest Forest Pass admits only 1 pass holder.

*Present pass to staff member at Fee Desk inside Johnston Ridge Observatory. Do not display in vehicle.

Day Use:
$12 per person per day (16 and older)

Pet Information

Pets are allowed on 6ft max leash on trails but not on the paved plaza deck outside and in Johnston Ridge Observatory.

Advice on Pet Safety:

While pets are allowed on trails, it is not advised to bring your pet on trails leaving from Johnston Ridge Observatory due to:

No shade on trails leaving from Johnston Ridge.
No water access while on trail
Ash covers the landscape at Johnston Ridge. Ash contains has a high silica or glass content. Pets can breathe in ash much easier being lower to the ground. Ash can damage pets paw pads and lead to injury.

Where to bring your pet while visiting Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument:

Other trails are that better for pets include Coldwater Lake Lakes trail, South Coldwater trail and Hummocks trail.

Mount St Helens district Office building with a green lawn in front and pathway leading to the entrance.

Address: 42218 N.E. Yale Bridge Rd. Amboy, WA 98601
Phone: (360) 449-7800
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 9am - 4:00pm. (Closed Daily: 12:00 - 1pm). Closed: Tuesday and Thursday (Closed on federal holidays)