Pulled into the Hummocks/Boundary Trailhead just after 8:00am and was the only car in the lot. No restroom, but the trailhead is clearly signed with a great map of the area. Snap a photo with your phone for reference before heading out if you want, though there's little chance of getting lost on this one.
First 0.5 mile is flat and easy going, take a left at the first fork rather than continuing on to the Hummocks Loop Trail, and instead proceed on the Boundary West Trail. There is ample signage pointing the way. Once you're on there, it's a steady uphill climb all the way to the Observatory if you choose to go that far.
The trail zigs and zags along the ridgeline with St. Helens to your right most of the way. Looking left, you'll occasionaly get a peek at nearby Coldwater (I think?) Lake. The ridge is very exposed, so a couple of things to keep in mind: Sun protection and wind protection. No trees will block the rays and you can get a sunburn even in winter! We were there with 6-10mph wind which was pretty constant and it was COLD. Base later, 2 mid layers, jacket, and puffy were worn to stave off the chill.
There are a couple of sections of washed away trail along the path but none are very long and it's clear which weay to go. The last 1.5 miles or so has between a dusting and a couple of feet of snow as you approached Loowit Viewpoint and then the Observatory. Poles were useful, microspikes helped a bit but were not necessary.
A fun day out and St. Helens looks incredible with some snow on it. Highly recommend getting out while you can if there's a clear day ahead! Total mileage was a bit over 10 miles and a little over 2,000 elevation gain. Pretty steady uphill climb with no especially brutal inclines to speak of.
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