Visit Mount Saint Helens in Washington, USA

We would rather be watching the plume of steam rising from the cone in Mount St. Helens!

Located in western Washington state, about 50 miles east of the I-5 at the exit for Castle Rock,
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is an amazing sight. WJ was lucky enough to arrive
on a beautiful autumn day, with blue skies, warm temperatures and fall foliage colors blazing.

This was Jill's first visit to the monument and getting up close with the mountain that blew her
top on May 18, 1980. Viv had been up once before (8 or 9 years ago) during inclement weather,
so the view had not been as impressive as during this visit.

Do you remember where you were when this happened and how volcanic ash was deposited
around the world?

If you make a visit to the Johnston Observatory, expect to pay $8 for adults. This includes access
to the observatory, watching a video showing what happened on the day the mountain erupted
in 1980 and a ranger talk that explains how the mountain and surrounding area has changed in
the past 28 years.

Todd Cullings with N.F. Gifford Pinchot, was the ranger who enthusiastically did our presentation,
has been on the mountain for 22 years and certainly knows his stuff.

For those fit and able, there are a number of hiking trails of various lengths that can be accessed
from Johnston Observatory - just remember that weather changes very quickly, so be prepared if
you're going to head away from the main area.

The paved road is easy to drive and the scenery is splendid on a sunny day. Make sure you have
plenty of time to stop and enjoy the views and so as not to rush this awesome monument.

Take a look at more of WJ's Mount St. Helens photos:
http://flickr.com/photos/wavejourney/sets/72157608688660057/

Note: The Johnston Observatory closes November 9, 2008 for the winter.

Check the website for details: http://www.fs.fed.us/gpnf/mshnvm/

Happy Travels!
Viv and Jill
AKA: WJ

View photos at: www.wavejourneywomen.blogspot.com
WAVE JOURNEY