Immerse yourself in the heart of the Mt. St. Helens Blast Zone and experience the stark contrast between the lush old-growth forest and the blown-down forest. Get up close and personal with the volcanic crater and Spirit Lake, then take a drive through some of the most pristine backcountry Washington State has to offer.
Mount St Helens’ Wildside and High Lakes Loop
DAY – 1
Lowland 1.5 mile nature walk, elevation (1100ft) for the whole family. Learn about the flora and fauna of the forest.
The only trail leading to Spirit Lake. Great views of the volcano and valley floor.
Popular trail for mountain biking and hiking among the blown down trees and emerging brush.
Your closest view of the volcanic crater. Less crowded and great viewing from the top of the stair climb. You truly are ON the mountain here.
Easy to get to and popular with families. One of the most developed camping areas in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest!
DAY – 2
The sites offer scenic views of Mt. Adams from the lake. It’s located in a high elevation stand of lodgepole and subalpine pine. OHV riding nearby as is fishing and hiking
Here’s something different – ten small, picturesque lakes called the Chain-of-Lakes, a beautiful area offering relaxation and rejuvenation.
There is no better picture of Mt. Adams. This quintessential scenic spot will have you coming time and time again.
Best known for horseback riders, this area is deep within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
DAY – 3
You don’t have to be an equestrian rider to love this area. Lots of views and a good basecamp for exploring the Mt Adams Wilderness at elevation 4354ft.
Stunning, 384-acre Walupt Lake offers expansive waters and a small beach, with a beautiful background view of the southern Goat Rocks Wilderness.
