This is my second trip on Boundary West, but this time I journeyed past the observatory a ways to get a better look at Spirit Lake.
I hiked just past the Old Devil's Elbow (decommissioned) and was delighted to see 10 mountain goats up on Johnston Ridge. This lead me to just about the T where you can head up or down the Truman Trail (I intend to do both later). Going up, I think one can make their way a somewhat short distance up to Harry's Ridge, which I am guessing awards an even cleaner view of Spirit Lake.
Tight on time, I enjoyed lunch atop a rocky hummock with my silent goat friends close by. The view from here into the St. Helens crater across the valley is the most centered I've ever seen.
I neglected to bring my sun hat, but luckily I had some sunscreen. I recommend both as there is little to no shade overall.
The observatory area is always desolate, and gives a somewhat post apocalyptic vibe- which I suppose is fitting for this area. I imagine this will change if the road washout is ever repaired.
Saw two hikers on the way in and eight on the way out. So an even hiker to goat ratio.
Looking forward to exploring more in this incredibly beautiful area.
RT 12.6m/2050ft
Comments
DK1998 on Boundary West
The view from the top of Harry's Ridge (RIP Harry) is indeed spectacular. Next spring I plan to try and make it back there in spite of the distance from the Hummocks Loop trailhead.
Posted by:
DK1998 on Nov 12, 2025 04:51 PM
Dream Delay on Boundary West
It appeared so close from where I was, but I knew it would be another hour+ round trip, plus some reasonable elevation. Definitely want to head back. And.. I'm also curious about the ridge trail across Mount Margaret, from the east. Looks really interesting.
Posted by:
Dream Delay on Nov 12, 2025 06:33 PM