Lava Canyon Interpretive Site

Area Status: Open

Discover more about Mount St. Helens eruptive past in this much more stark, higher-elevation setting. Access Lava Canyon Trail #184 at this site. Travel along the trail and explore a mudflow-scoured canyon with views of a waterfall plunging over an ancient lava flow. Continue on the Lava Canyon Trail for more challenging hiking experiences with rewarding views.

Accessible Adventures Video

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	8/15/2018 Use extreme caution on the lower section past the suspension bridge. Stay on the trail and do not approach the river and falls. Several fatalities have occured over the years.
Fees	$5/vehicle/day
Usage:	Heavy
Best Season:	Summer
Busiest Season:	Summer
Closest Towns:	Cougar, WA
Water:	No
Restroom:	Compost Toilet (1)
Passes:	Recreation Passes may be used as a form of fee payment.
Operated By:	Forest Service
Information Center:	Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument Headquarters and Visitor Centers

General Information

Directions:

From Woodland, WA take State Route 503/Forest Road 90 east to the well-signed Forest Road 83 junction. Turn left on Forest Road 83 for 11 miles and follow to the end of Forest Road 83 at Lava Canyon Trailhead and Intepretive Site.

Accessibility:

This site and trail are accessible and offer outstanding views.