From I-5, drive into the heart of the blast zone. Spectacular crater views, visitor centers, picnic areas and hikes await. Most of the road is plowed in winter.
This summer and fall route offers views of the crater and Spirit Lake, interpretive sites, and easy or rugged hiking. Join an interpretive talk at Windy Ridge Viewpoint in summer.
Rugged, steep trails and amazing landscapes typify the Mt. Margaret Backcountry. Permits required for overnight camping.
At a Glance
Current Conditions:
02/18/2021: Be prepared for winter weather, snow and ice on all roads.
State Route 504 is gated for the winter at mile marker 45, just past Coldwater Lake and the Hummocks Trail.
Forest Road 83 gated for the winter just past Marble Mountain Sno-Park.
Forest Road 830 to Climber's Bivouac closed for the winter.
Forest Road 81 gated for the winter on the east just past Cougar Sno-Park, and on the west side just past Kalama Horse Camp.
Forest Road 99 to Windy Ridge gated for the winter just past Wakepish Sno-Park.
Forest Roads 26 gated for the winter at the 2612 junction.
Operational Hours:
Johnston Ridge Observatory is closed for the winter season. Will reopen in May, 2021. State Route 504 is closed at mile marker 45, just past Coldwater Lake and the Hummocks Trail for the winter.
Coldwater Science & Learning Center possibly open weekends starting Jan.2, 2021. Stay tuned for updates.
Ape Headquarters closed. Ape Cave temporarily closed.
Pine Creek Info Station closed for the 2020 season. Should reopen in summer, 2021.
Cascade Peaks Information Station (Forest Road 99) closed.
Mount St. Helens Monument Administrative Headquarters remains closed to the public. For information, call 360 690-5231.
Washington State Sno-Park Permits required at Trail of Two Forests, Cougar and Marble Mountain Sno-Park Dec. 1 through March 31. Permits are NOT available on-site. Purchase on-line or find a vendor.
Climb and explore one of the best lunch spots in the Northwest, but, you will have to work for it! A 4 to 6 hour climb up will reward you with spectacular panoramic views from the rim of Mount St. Helens. On a clear day you can see Spirit Lake, the crater, Mount Rainer, Mount Adams and Mount Hood.
All hunting in Washington is regulated by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife. Please contact Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife for Washington hunting seasons, permit and regulation information.
SHOW
Climb and explore one of the best lunch spots in the Northwest, but, you will have to work for it! A 4 to 6 hour climb up will reward you with spectacular panoramic views from the rim of Mount St. Helens. On a clear day you can see Spirit Lake, the crater, Mount Rainer, Mount Adams and Mount Hood.
