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Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is one of Washington’s most popular and fascinating attractions. But with the recent closure of SR 504 blocking access to the Johnston Observatory on the northwestern flank of the volcano, how can you visit the mountain and learn about the epic eruption and its aftermath?
SR 504 is open to milepost 43. Along the open stretch of highway, there are two worthwhile visitor centers. At milepost 5, stop at the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center for world-class displays about the volcano, including a large, step-in model of the volcano, a functioning seismograph with a live feed of current seismic activity, a chronological timeline of events leading up to the May 18, 1980 eruption, and a theater programs providing more information. The Center is located nearby Seaquest State Park, a perfect spot for kayaking, fishing and boating on Silver Lake as well as camping and RVing.
Farther up SR 504 at milepost 33.5, visit the Forest Learning Center inside the volcanic blast zone with clear views of the mountain. Inside, you will experience an interactive, multisensory exhibit demonstrating what it would have been like to walk through the forest moments before the eruption. Then, you will enter the Eruption Chamber to experience the sights and sounds of the eruption. Take a virtual helicopter tour above Mount St. Helens and the surrounding forests, and learn about the salvage, recovery and reforestation efforts through hands-on displays and interactive exhibits.
For excellent views and photos of Mount St. Helens along SR 504, stop at the Elk Rock Viewpoint at milepost 37 and Castle Lake Viewpoint at milepost 40.
There are lodging, camping and RV parks along SR 504 for visitors looking for overnight accommodations.
SR 503 on the southern flank of the mountain provides access to attractions that tell more of the volcano’s story: Ape Cave (the third longest lava tube on the continent), the Trail of Two Forests (where you can explore the effects of a 2,000-year-old lava flow) and Lava Canyon (for a short hike along a river to learn about the geologic history of the scenic canyon). Also along SR 503, you can also explore Lake Merwin, Yale Lake, Swift Reservoir and Lewis River Falls.
Lodging, camping and RVing are available along SR 503.
Cities near Mount St. Helens have all the amenities you need to explore the region, including dining, lodging, shopping, museums, parks and more. These include Castle Rock, Woodland, Kalama, Longview and Kelso.
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Jarastyle – #Explore #Mount #Helens #summer
Courtesy : https://nwtravelmag.com/explore-mount-st-helens-this-summer/