Johnston Ridge Observatory

Johnston Ridge Observatory is at the end of Spirit Lake Memorial Hwy. (SR 504) in Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The observatory is the closest to the crater and lava dome and offers panoramic views. The facility is named for a volcanologist, on duty at the time of the eruption, who was one of the 57 people who lost their lives during this catastrophic event. Interpretive exhibits explain the series of events leading to the eruption of the volcano and the resulting change to the landscape. A 16-minute video presentation re-creates the eruption. A 1.5-mile interpretive trail shows how the eruption shaped the landscape. Ranger-led interpretive walks are offered daily.

Time: Allow 1 hour minimum.