Coldwater Peak — Sunday, Jul. 17, 2016

South Cascades > Mount St. Helens

Really enjoyed this hike through the blast zone of the 1980 eruption of Mt. St. Helens. It is very different from the standard green & lush hikes here in WA. It is very surreal seeing first hand the damage caused nearly instantaneously and the great expanse in which the damage was done on that fateful day. We arrived around 0830 and upon our arrival to Johnston Observatory, we were greeted with a very thick layer of clouds and were skeptical, but hopeful of what may come of this hike. Approximately two miles down the trail, about where you are at the closest point you will get to St. Helens, the skies magnificently cleared providing outstanding views and picture opportunities with the volcano. At that point you wind your way away from St. Helens and upward toward the peak. Eventually you will see more and more of Spirit Lake and St. Helens Lake as you ascend toward Coldwater Peak and can also spot Mt Adams peeking out in the distance if the clouds cooperate...I cannot speak to seeing Coldwater Lake at all as that side of the trail/peak was totally socked in when we visited. If you do choose to do this hike, MAKE SURE TO BRING PLENTY OF WATER!!! There is VERY little shade on this trail as you are in the blast area the entire time. Also, the trail is not very wide at all and may be intimidating at times for those who may have a fear of heights. Don't let these things deter you from this much underrated hike!!!