Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument – Image Gallery
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is a preserved area surrounding the active volcano that erupted in 1980, showcasing the destructive power of nature and ongoing recovery.
Details
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is located in the state of Washington and was established in 1982 to preserve the aftermath of the catastrophic eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18, 1980. The monument covers over 110,000 acres and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
Features:
- Mount St. Helens: The main feature of the monument is the volcano itself, which lost over 1,300 feet of elevation in the eruption. Visitors can see the massive crater left behind and witness the ongoing recovery of the landscape.
- Visitor Centers: The monument has several visitor centers that provide information about the eruption, geology, and ecology of the area. The Johnston Ridge Observatory offers stunning views of the volcano and surrounding landscape.
- Trails: There are numerous hiking trails in the monument, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The Boundary Trail offers a 3-mile loop with panoramic views of the volcano and Spirit Lake.
- Ecological Significance: The eruption of Mount St. Helens dramatically altered the landscape, creating a unique opportunity to study ecological succession and recovery. The monument is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species that have recolonized the area.
- Volcanic Features: Visitors can see lava domes, ash deposits, and other volcanic features that were created during the eruption. The monument is a living laboratory for scientists studying volcanic processes and their impact on the environment.
Overall, the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in geology, ecology, and the power of nature. It offers a glimpse into the destructive and transformative forces at work in the natural world.
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
Points of Interest
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is a popular destination for visitors interested in learning about the catastrophic eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980. The monument covers over 110,000 acres and features a variety of points of interest that showcase the volcano's impact on the surrounding landscape.
Johnston Ridge Observatory
- Location: Located at the end of State Route 504, the observatory offers stunning views of the volcano and surrounding area.
- Exhibits: Visitors can learn about the eruption through interactive exhibits, films, and ranger-led programs.
- Trails: There are several hiking trails near the observatory that offer opportunities to see the effects of the eruption up close.
Windy Ridge Interpretive Site
- Location: Situated on the north side of the volcano, Windy Ridge offers panoramic views of the crater and blast zone.
- Interpretive Displays: Visitors can learn about the eruption and its aftermath through interpretive displays and ranger talks.
- Hiking: There are several hiking trails in the area that lead to viewpoints overlooking the blast zone and Spirit Lake.
Coldwater Lake
- Location: Formed by the eruption, Coldwater Lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking.
- Visitor Center: The Coldwater Lake Visitor Center offers information about the lake's formation and the recovery of the surrounding ecosystem.
- Boat Tours: Visitors can take guided boat tours of the lake to learn about its history and geology.
These are just a few of the many points of interest within the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. Whether you're interested in learning about the volcano's history, exploring its impact on the landscape, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this unique and historic site.
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument – Images
Description: 360° panorama from the summit of Mount St. Helens as seen on an early-October afternoon. In the foreground is the ice-covered crater rim. Visible in the lower center is the lava dome. Steam rises from several dome vents. Above the dome, in the upper center, lie Mount Rainier and Spirit Lake. Mount Adams appears to the right of Rainier on the horizon as well as Mount Hood and Mount Jefferson on the far right. Also on the far right are glimpses of the Swift Reservoir, Yale Lake, Lake Merwin and the Lewis River. Climbers stand on the crater rim and are visible along the Monitor Ridge climbing route. Photo by Gregg M. Erickson
Image by Gregg M. Erickson (talk · contribs) – CC BY 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Spirit Lake, Washington, dead trees near the shore
Image by Dirtsc – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Spirit Lake, Washington, dead trees near the shore
Image by Dirtsc – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Debris of Mt St Helens eruption seen from Windy Ridge
Image by Dirtsc – CC BY-SA 4.0 – Wikimedia
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