Mt. St. Helens

Overview

Mount St. Helens is an active stratovolcano located in Skamania County, Washington. It is famous for its catastrophic eruption on May 18, 1980, which was the deadliest and most destructive volcanic event in U.S. history.

The mountain is significant for its geological activity and the dramatic changes it underwent during the 1980 eruption. It is a key site for studying volcanic processes and the effects of natural disasters.

Volcanic Site Hiking Nature

Location

Address

Washington

Neighborhood: Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Coordinates

46.195800, -122.204100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$8

Children

$5

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

June-September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better weather

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild, rainy

• wildflowers
• waterfalls

summer

warm, dry

• hiking trails
• viewpoints

autumn

cool, crisp

• fall colors
• clear views

winter

cold, snowy

• snow activities
• holiday lights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check trail conditions
Bring water
Wear appropriate footwear

What to Bring

essential

ID water hiking boots

seasonal

jacket umbrella sunscreen

not allowed

drones large groups without permit

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate to high

• uneven terrain
• altitude changes

Medical facilities: first aid available, nearest hospital 30 miles away

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $8

parking $5

guided tours $30

souvenirs $15

Dress Code

casual, outdoorsy, comfortable shoes, layered clothing, hiking boots, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1 month
• official website
• 48 hours
• available for guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Mount St. Helens App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Trail guides, Emergency info

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, Cafes

Charging Stations: Visitor centers

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Portland International Airport (PDX)

Distance: 75 miles

Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

car

varies 1 hour 30 minutes

shuttle

$50 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: 50 miles

car

varies 1 hour 15 minutes

shuttle

$40 1 hour 30 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique volcanic landscape, rich history, great hiking

Historical Significance: 1980 eruption changed the landscape and scientific understanding of volcanoes

Insider Tips

Best views at sunrise
Local cafes offer huckleberry delights
Guided tours provide deeper insights

Local Recommendations

• Try local huckleberry products
• Visit the Ape Cave for a unique experience
• Ask rangers for trail tips

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Johnston Ridge Observatory

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle for landscape

Result: Stunning views of the crater

#MountStHelens #Volcano #Nature

Lava Canyon Trail

Best Time: Midday

Tips: Low angle for waterfalls

Result: Dramatic waterfall shots

#Waterfall #Hiking #Adventure

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas visitor centers

flash photography not allowed in some areas

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited without permit

tripod policy allowed with permit

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Ape Cave

Distance: 10 miles

Walking: N/A

Type: Lava Tube

Silver Lake

Distance: 5 miles

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Lake

Museum of the Northwest

Distance: 15 miles