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Science and Learning Center at Coldwater
This facility is located at milepost 43 on State Highway 504, approximately 10 miles west of Johnston Ridge Observatory. The Coldwater Science and Learning Center will be closed seasonally for winter starting December 16th, 2024. Re-opening in the spring on Saturday May 17th, 2025 for the 45th Eruptiversary. Stop in to get information about exploring the monument, learn about education programs offered, or shop at the bookstore.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | 12/3/2024: The US Forest Service Visitor Center at the Coldwater Science and Learning Center, located at milepost 43 along State Route 504, will close for the winter on Monday, December 16th. The Coldwater Visitor Center is expected to re-open for the 2025 season on Saturday May 17, 2025, in time for the 45th anniversary of the eruption of Mount St. Helens. Hummocks trailhead and Coldwater Lake boat launch & day-use area will remain open all winter, as road and weather conditions allow. |
|---|---|
| Operational Hours: | 2025 Summer Hours: May 17th to October, 7 days a week 10 am to 4 pm. Winter Hours (Generally from November to Mid December): Friday to Sunday 10 am to 4 PM. ** The gate to the parking lot will be locked daily at 4pm to accommodate overnight fieldtrips that were previously scheduled for the season. Winter Hours: (Generally from Mid December to Mid May): Closed for the season. |
| Fees: |
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| Usage: | Light-Medium |
| Closest Towns: | Castle Rock, WA, Toutle , WA - **Be aware the last gas stations on Highway 504 are in Toutle, WA, and on Highway 505, are in Toledo, WA.** No gas available at Johnston Ridge Observatory or Coldwater Science and Learning Center. |
| Water: | Yes |
| Restroom: | Yes |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: |
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General Information
Directions:From Castle Rock, WA take State Route 504 east for 42 miles to the Science and Learning Center, just 10 miles west of Johnston Ridge Observatory.