Trail #1: Boundary- Hummocks to Johnston Ridge

Area Status: Open

This trail is for hiker use only.

Beginning at its intersection with the short loop trail Hummocks #229, this 4.6 mile section of the Boundary Trail #1 offers hikers the opportunity to see firsthand the effects of the May 1980 eruption. Views of Mount St. Helens and North Fork Toutle River valley are among the sights. To protect plants, animals and scientific studies please stay on established routes whenever possible. Day use only.

Begin at Hummock/Boundary Trailhead and take the Hummocks Trail #229 for 0.5 miles to it's junction with Boundary Trail #1. Elk can often be seen around the junction, grazing in the grassy meadows. The trail crosses debris avalanche deposits before beginning the steep and steady climb of Johnston Ridge. Switchbacks cross patches of blast shattered stumps and blown down trees. After the initial 1200-foot elevation gain, the trail traverses Johnston Ridge, offering views of the debris-filled North Fork Toutle River valley and Mount St. Helens. The trail then passes Loowit Viewpoint, climbs 200 feet in 0.8 mile, and brings you to Johnston Ridge Observatory, 4.6 miles from the junction with Hummocks Trail.

Stop here or continue on Boundary Trail #1 towards spirit lake access via Truman Trail #207.

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	06/24/2024: Hummocks Trailhead is open and accessible, free and clear of obstructions. There are a couple of areas near Loowit Viewpoint that may be a little challenging to cross due to previous washouts on the Boundary Trail, but it is otherwise crossbale. Use caution on these particular sections of the trail. The boundary rope at Loowit Viewpoint is frayed and on the ground. There is no running water sources along the trail at this time, and the area is officially dry.
Fees:	No fee or pass required at Hummocks Trail Trailhead. See Mount St. Helens Map for fee and payment sites.
Usage:	Light
Best Season:	Summer-Fall
Busiest Season:	Summer
Restrictions:	No camping No stock or bicycles. Pets must be on a 6 foot leash at all times. Hiking in this environment can pose the following dangers to pets: Little to no shade Little to no water availability Blowing dust and fine particulate matter Abrasive trail surfaces due to volcanic rock No off-trail use. Off-trail travel by people or pets tramples vegetation and impacts sensitive research areas See Mount St. Helens Map for more information.
Closest Towns:	Toutle, WA, Castle Rock, WA
Operated By:	Forest Service
Information Center:	Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Administrative Headquarters (360) 449-7800 Gifford Pinchot National Forest Offices/Visitor Centers

General Information

Directions:

From Castle Rock, WA head east on State Highway 504 (Spirit Lake Highway) for 42.7 miles take the right branch and stay on 504 and drive another 2 miles to the Hummock/Boundary Trailhead on the right.