Discover the Majestic Mt. St. Helens
Explore the awe-inspiring Mt. St. Helens, a testament to nature's power and resilience, offering breathtaking views and rich geological history.
Mt. St. Helens, an iconic volcano in Washington, offers breathtaking views and a rich geological history. Experience the beauty and power of nature at this stunning site, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Mt St Helens
- Washington, US
Local tips
- Visit the Johnston Ridge Observatory for the best educational resources and panoramic views.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints along your hike.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Wear sturdy footwear, as many trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique geological formations.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from the nearest city, Vancouver, WA, take I-5 South towards Portland. After about 25 miles, take exit 21 for WA-503 N toward Woodland. Follow WA-503 N for approximately 40 miles until you reach the junction with WA-504. Turn right onto WA-504 E. Continue on WA-504 E for about 27 miles until you arrive at the Mt. St. Helens Visitor Center. From there, follow signs to the various viewpoints and trails around Mt. St. Helens.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, take a Greyhound or Amtrak bus to the nearest major city, Portland, OR. From Portland, you can catch a local bus service (C-Tran) to Vancouver, WA. Once in Vancouver, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to take you directly to the Mt. St. Helens Visitor Center, as public transit options are limited in this area. Expect to pay around $80-$100 for the taxi ride from Vancouver to the Visitor Center.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, biking from the surrounding areas is an option. Starting from the town of Castle Rock, bike along WA-504 E. The distance is approximately 30 miles to the Mt. St. Helens Visitor Center. Make sure to wear a helmet and carry sufficient water and snacks, as there are limited services along the way.
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Hiking
If you are already in the Mount St. Helens area and looking for a hiking option, you can start from the Johnston Ridge Observatory, which is accessible via WA-504 E. This is approximately a 5-mile hike round trip to the nearby trails that offer stunning views of the volcano. Ensure you have appropriate hiking gear and check trail conditions beforehand.
Discover more about Mt St Helens
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Miners Car Interpretive Site
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Explore the Miners Car Interpretive Site in Cougar, WA - A Historical Landmark Highlighting the Rich Mining Heritage of the Pacific Northwest.
Rashford spur historic logging camp
27.5 km
Discover the rich history of the Rashford Spur Logging Camp in Amboy, Washington, and immerse yourself in the stories of the Pacific Northwest's logging heritage.
Yale Bridge
29.1 km
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North Clark Historical Museum
37.0 km
Discover the captivating history of Clark County at the North Clark Historical Museum in Amboy, a treasure trove of stories and artifacts.
Interpretive Site: Layser Cave
39.4 km
Discover Layser Cave, a historical landmark in Washington that offers a unique blend of geological wonders and rich local history.
Pomeroy Farm
43.9 km
Discover a historical gem in Yacolt, WA, where nature and education combine at Pomeroy Farm, featuring a tea house, pumpkin patch, and scenic farm tours.
Historical Marker
62.5 km
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The Oregon Pony
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Cascade Locks Historical Museum
62.6 km
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WA State Historical Marker #19 - Bridge of the Gods
62.8 km
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Thunder Island Brewing Co
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Mount Rainier National Park Headquarters
63.0 km
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Bridge of the Gods
63.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of the Bridge of the Gods, a stunning suspension bridge in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail - Bridge of the Gods Trailhead
63.2 km
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Wind Mountain Trailhead
63.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Wind Mountain Trailhead in Stevenson, WA, a hiking gem offering stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mt. Saint Helens
0.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and geological history of Mt. Saint Helens, an archaeological treasure in Washington State's stunning wilderness.
Ape Canyon
5.2 km
Explore the stunning Ape Canyon in Washington – a breathtaking ravine filled with scenic trails, rich wildlife, and stunning natural beauty.
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
5.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and geological wonders of Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, a testament to nature's power and resilience.
June Lake Trailhead And Parking
6.7 km
Discover breathtaking views and diverse hiking trails at June Lake Trailhead in Cougar, Washington – a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Sno-Park: Marble Mountain
7.1 km
Discover the beauty of Sno-Park: Marble Mountain, a premier hiking destination in Washington with stunning views of Mount St. Helens and diverse landscapes.
Windy Ridge Viewpoint
7.9 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Mount St. Helens at Windy Ridge Viewpoint, a scenic spot that promises awe-inspiring views and unforgettable hiking experiences.
Mount St Helen's View Point
8.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and educational insights at Mount St. Helens View Point, a cultural landmark in Washington showcasing nature's resilience.
Lava Canyon Trailhead
8.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lava Canyon Trailhead, a hiker's paradise featuring stunning landscapes and rich geological heritage in Washington.
Mount St Helens Viewpoint
9.1 km
Explore the stunning vistas of Mount St. Helens at this scenic viewpoint, where nature's beauty and geological history come together.
Ape Cave Interpretive Site
9.2 km
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Ape Cave
9.2 km
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Johnston Ridge Observatory
9.5 km
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Harry's Ridge
9.5 km
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Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument
9.6 km
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Loowit Viewpoint
9.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Cougar Bar & Grill
17.5 km
Experience delicious grilled delights at Cougar Bar & Grill, where local flavors meet stunning natural beauty in Washington.
Lone Fir Cafe
17.7 km
Experience delightful dining at Lone Fir Cafe near Mount St. Helens with family-friendly meals and stunning river views.
Lone Fir Resort
17.7 km
Experience the beauty and adventure at Lone Fir Resort in Cougar, WA – your perfect escape into nature's embrace.
Big Bottom Roadhouse
42.4 km
Experience the best grilled delights at Big Bottom Roadhouse in Randle, WA - where great food meets warm hospitality.
Tall Timber Restaurant Lounge
43.2 km
Discover the flavors of America at Tall Timber Restaurant Lounge in Randle – your perfect retreat for delicious food and cozy accommodations.
Big River Grill
60.4 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Big River Grill in Stevenson, WA – where local flavors meet hearty comfort food.
River Rock
60.5 km
Experience American cuisine with breathtaking views at River Rock in Stevenson, WA - perfect for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Cascade Dining Room
60.5 km
Experience American cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Cascade Dining Room in Skamania Lodge, Columbia River Gorge's culinary gem.
Cliff Droppers
60.9 km
Discover mouthwatering burgers at Cliff Droppers in Packwood, WA – where flavor meets friendly service amidst stunning landscapes.
Blue Spruce Saloon And Diner
61.3 km
Experience local flavors at Blue Spruce Saloon & Diner in Packwood – where hearty meals meet friendly service amidst stunning natural beauty.
Cruiser’s Pizza
61.4 km
Discover Cruiser’s Pizza in Packwood - where delicious handcrafted pizzas meet warm hospitality amidst stunning natural beauty.
Brigham Fish Market
63.0 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Brigham Fish Market in Cascade Locks - where local flavors meet stunning river views.
Mt. Rainier Railroad Dining Co.
63.8 km
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Rainier BaseCamp Bar & Grill
64.5 km
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Paradise Village Hotel & Restaurant
64.5 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and natural beauty at Paradise Village Hotel & Restaurant near Mount Rainier National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mt St Helens Forest Learning Center
20.2 km
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Fischer's Market
42.3 km
Experience local flavors and convenience at Fischer's Market in Randle, WA - a must-visit grocery store for every traveler.
Carson General Store
59.1 km
Explore Carson General Store: Your one-stop shop for local treasures, snacks, and essentials in the heart of Washington's breathtaking landscapes.
Bloomsbury of Kanaka Creek Farm
60.4 km
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Wind Mountain Ranch
62.5 km
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Eastwind Drive-In
62.7 km
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Bike the Gorge
62.9 km
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Columbia Market
62.9 km
Discover local flavors and fresh produce in the heart of Cascade Locks at Columbia Market, your go-to grocery store for all your needs.
Bridgeside
63.1 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Bridgeside in Cascade Locks, where local flavors meet breathtaking scenic views.
Elbe Market Country Store
63.7 km
Experience local flavors and unique souvenirs at Elbe Market Country Store, a charming stop for every traveler in Washington.
Ashford Creek Pottery
64.3 km
Explore the enchanting Ashford Creek Pottery, a unique art gallery and pottery store in Ashford, WA, showcasing local craftsmanship and creativity.
Whittaker Mountaineering
64.4 km
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Spruce Gifts and Provisions
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Discover the charm of Cascade Locks at Spruce Gifts and Provisions, your go-to spot for unique local gifts and artisan treats.
Cedar Creek Alpacas
64.9 km
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Longmire General Store & Mt. Rainier Natl. Park Gift Shop
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Explore the beauty of Mount Rainier and discover unique souvenirs and snacks at the Longmire General Store, your ultimate park companion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Backwoods Brewing Company
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Experience the best of local craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Backwoods Brewing Company in scenic Carson, WA.
Bungalow Bar & Grill
59.6 km
Discover the charm of Bungalow Bar & Grill, your go-to spot for local brews and hearty meals in Carson, Washington.
Red Bluff Tap House
60.4 km
Discover the flavors of Stevenson at Red Bluff Tap House – a must-visit gastropub featuring local cuisine and a vibrant craft beer selection.
Rock Creek Tavern
60.5 km
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Walking Man Brewing
60.5 km
Experience the art of craft brewing at Walking Man Brewing, a must-visit destination for beer and pizza lovers in Stevenson, WA.
Cascade Locks / Portland East KOA Holiday
62.4 km
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Gorges Beer Co.
62.8 km
Discover the best of Cascade Locks at Gorges Beer Co., where exquisite craft beers meet delicious local cuisine in a stunning riverside setting.
Cascade Locks Ale House
62.9 km
Discover the Cascade Locks Ale House, where local brews meet stunning views in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
Elbe Bar & Grill
63.6 km
Experience the best of local flavors at Elbe Bar & Grill, a cozy spot perfect for unwinding after exploring Washington's stunning landscapes.
Alexander's Lodge At Mt Rainier
65.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of adventure and comfort at Alexander's Lodge, your gateway to the natural wonders of Mt. Rainier National Park.
National Park Inn
68.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Mount Rainier National Park while enjoying a cozy stay at the National Park Inn, a historic retreat in nature's paradise.
Red Carpet Inn
73.2 km
Experience the local charm and vibrant atmosphere of Red Carpet Inn, a must-visit bar in Hood River, Oregon, with craft drinks and live music.
pFriem Family Brewers
74.5 km
Experience the best of craft brewing at pFriem Family Brewers in Hood River, Oregon, where flavor meets local charm.
Camp 1805 Distillery & Bar
74.6 km
Discover the essence of Oregon at Camp 1805 Distillery & Bar, where craft spirits and delectable dishes unite in a cozy atmosphere.
Ferment Brewing Company
74.7 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of craft beer and delicious cuisine at Ferment Brewing Company in Hood River, Oregon.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Hot point
73.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and diverse drink selections at Hot Point, the ultimate bar experience in Hood River, Oregon.
Shed
75.3 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of Shed in Hood River, where expertly crafted drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Thirteen 0 One
75.4 km
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The Clubhouse at The Dalles Country Club
96.3 km
Discover culinary excellence at The Clubhouse at The Dalles Country Club, where delicious grill cuisine meets breathtaking views in Oregon.
The Station
99.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and diverse drink offerings of The Station, the perfect lounge and bar in The Dalles for a night out.
Cousins' Restaurant & Saloon
99.9 km
Experience the essence of traditional American dining at Cousins' Restaurant & Saloon, a family-friendly gem in The Dalles, Oregon.
