Bear Meadow Interpretive Site

Area Status: Open

On May 18, 1980, Gary Rosenquist was camped at this site and took a series of photos capturing the first few moments of the landslide and eruption, barely escaping with his life. The site offers a volcano view, interpretive information and accessible picnic area and restroom. Boundary Trail #1 may be accessed from here.

Accessible Adventures Video

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	07/17/2023: Bear Meadow is open. Due to a landslide of Forest Road 25, Randle and Forest Road 99 will be inaccessible from Cougar this summer. Learn More.
Usage:	Light
Restrictions:	No overnight camping allowed on Forest Road 99 inside the National Volcanic Monument.
Closest Towns:	Randle, WA
Water:	No
Restroom:	Vault Toilet (1),Compost Toilet (1)
Passes:	No pass currently required.
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

Accessibility:

A flat parking lot and barrier-free paved paths offer access for all to the interpretive signs and spectacular views.

Directions:

From State Highway 12 in Randle WA, take WA-131S south for 2.8 miles to Forest Road 25. Continue on Forest Road 25 for another 24.3 miles to the junction with Forest Road 99. Turn right onto Forest Road 99 towards Windy Ridge. Bear Meadows will on your left approximately 2.2 miles up Forest Road 99.

From Cougar WA take Lewis River Road east for 2.8 miles. The road then changes to Forest Road 90. Continue on Forest Road 90 for 16 miles and stay to the left on Forest Road 25, pass the Pine Creek Information Center. Drive Forest Road 25 for 25 miles and turn left at the junction of Forest Road 25 and Forest Road 99. Bear Meadows will be on your left approximately 2.2 miles up Forest Road 99.