Volcanic destruction created fascinating new hiking destinations in the Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The Hummocks Trail offers distant views of the mountain, and close-up views of the stuff that came out of it when it erupted.
Photo: View of the volcano and Spirit Lake from the Boundary Trail near Norway Pass. USDA photo by J. Quzing.
A veritable biology and geology field trip, the trail loops 2.3 easy miles through mounds of debris shaped by erosion. In the hummocks, you can inspect the multicolored volcanic debris, and enjoy views of Mt. St. Helens and the Toutle River. Ponds that have formed between the hummocks are host to new life: there are wildflowers, frogs, deer, elk and coyote, to name a few.
If you want to hike farther, consider the Boundary Trail. You could connect to it from the 3200-foot Hummocks Trail and walk up to the Loowit Viewpoint or the 4200-foot Johnston Ridge Observatory. A better option is to start at the Observatory and hike east 2.5 miles to a junction. Go left to Harry’s Ridge and Coldwater Peak. Go right to descend to the pumice plain and the Spirit Lake basin at 6.7 miles.
Hiking in the Mt. St. Helens area requires sturdy footwear. The trees are all gone, so carry plenty of water and be prepared for exposure to the elements, including intense sun. Call MSH for snow levels.
Getting there: Leave Interstate 5 at Castle Rock and follow State Route 504 to the Coldwater Ridge Visitor’s Center. The Hummocks Trail starts just beyond the facility. Continue on 504 to the Johnston Ridge Observatory for the Boundary Trail. Admission to the Monument is free every year on the anniversary of the May 18, 1980 blast.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.