Copyright: USDA Forest Service
Mount Saint Helens from the Coldwater Ridge Visitor Center
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Description - The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Ranger District covers the middle to western portion of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Numerous viewpoints and miles of trails have been created for visitors to explore by car and foot. During the summer, Forest Interpreters lead a wide range of activities, from short walks to amphitheater presentations, to help you understand and enjoy this area. Discover the wonder of winter at Mount St. Helens, where many cross-country ski and snowmobile trails are offered.
Attractions
- The Ranger District offers numerous trails, campgrounds, lakes and creeks. Of special interest is Mount St. Helens, which erupted on May 18th, 1980 and has continued to erupt until 1986, violently at first, then quietly building a lava dome. The lava dome is now 920 feet high.
Recreation - Activities include hiking, biking, camping, backpacking, climbing, fishing, motorcycle riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Climate - Climate on the Gifford Pinchot changes drastically with elevation. The area receives a high amount of precipitation. Much of the precipitation comes from October to April in the form of rain at the low elevations and as wet heavy snow in the higher elevations. Deep winter snowpacks accumulate in the high elevations.
Although snow is possible in the lowest elevations, it is infrequent. Late spring, summer and early autumn tend to bring clear, sunny days with moderate temperatures. Location -
The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Ranger District covers the middle and western portion of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
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