Meta Lake Interpretive Site

Area Status: Open

This site provides access to the short paved Meta Lake Trail #210 that leads to a clear blue lake teeming with life. Come and hear stories about plant and animal survivors and new arrivals. During July you may see swarms of squirming tadpoles along the lakeshore on their journey to adulthood.

Interpretive talks are offered daily during the summer. Look for a Forest Interpreter at this site at various times during the day. Program times are posted on the information board.

Please note: This site is inaccessible much of the year due to weather conditions.

Accessible Adventures Video

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	07/16/2024: Forest Road 99 is now open for the season, providing access to Meta Lake, Windy Ridge Viewpoint, and other trails in the area. Due to a landslide of Forest Road 25, Randle and Forest Road 99 will be inaccessible via northbound travel from Cougar. Access to the area will be heavily dependent on snow levels. Melt out usually occurs sometime in June or July. Learn More.
Usage:	Light
Best Season:	Summer and fall
Busiest Season:	Summer
Restrictions:	Off trail travel prohibited. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times. No stock or bicycles. Day-use only. No camping or swimming is allowed at Meta Lake.
Closest Towns:	Randle, WA
Water:	No
Restroom:	No
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 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 to the junction of Forest Road 99. Turn left onto Forest Road 99 towards Windy Ridge. Drive approximately 9.4 miles to Meta Lake Interpretive Site.