スカマニア郡の天然記念物・トップ20

Amazing trail. First bit out of the parking lot is the techiest. After that, it is one of the best rides you can do in Washington. Unbelievable views and nature

This Juice is worth the Squeeeeze!

The visitor center is currently closed (6.2023) due to a large landslide, and it will be closed for some time as they repair the road. The closest access point is the Mt St Helens Science and Learning Center, located on Coldwater Lake. There is a trail from the Learning Center that can link up to the Boundary Trail and other popular Mt St Helens trails, although it does add considerable distance.

On your way up to the summit of Mount Saint Helens, this is the last spot that has at least some shade. So take a short break, before you head out into the sun. This is also the boundary of the restricted area. You can hike up to this point without a permit, but to continue, you have to obtain a permit at https://www.recreation.gov/.

The Ape Cave is the third longest lava tube in North America. This is the main entrance for the impressive Ape Cave. The cave consists of a massive lava tube that you can explore on your own. Before you do, though, you have to book an inexpensive ticket for a certain time slot from May through October on https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10086990 – that is to save the cave from the masses and ensure that you can experience this unique formation without being rushed. Bring at least two sources of light (in case one fails), it is pitch black in the 2.5 mile tunnel. Also bring some warm layers as it is just 42 degrees cool even in summer.

This trail skirts around the east side of St. Helens and a windy ridge but not wide enough to be scary. It has epic views with some occasionally hike-a-bike!

Most people will know the name of Mount St. Helens due to the massive eruption that happened in May 1980. In that event, the top of the mountain was blasted away by the pressure that was released instantly and the north side collapsed with a gigantic landslide. Today, the volcano is still mildly active. You can see steam coming out of the crater and timelapse videos show the evolution of new cones over the years. A steep trail will lead you to the rim with some difficult terrain, the true summit is another 0.4 miles to the west. For summiting Mount St. Helens, you need to obtain a permit year round.

Great visitor center, if you get a chance to visit you should see the film. There are also headphones for different languages, after the performance the curtain goes up and St. Helens appears in all its glory.