An Eruption of Fun at Mount St. Helens
The Johnston Ridge Observatory at Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument opens ahead of the 38th anniversary of the volcano's 1980 eruption. Celebrate with a visit for a hike, or to attend a series of upcoming events.
The Johnston Ridge Observatory at Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument opened yesterday, and Friday, May 18, marks the 38th anniversary of the Mount St. Helens eruption.
Spring flowers in full summer bloom at Mount St. Helens. Photo by Zi Xian Leong.
The monument is marking the historic event and opening with a series of events this weekend and into June. The historic event. If you’re looking for an excuse to take the whole family on exploration adventure, drive along the Spirit Lake Highway to visit Mount St. Helens and enjoy the various events happening May through June.
Upcoming Events
May 18 7:30 -9:30 pm: Marks 38th anniversary of Mount St. Helens, the most active volcano in the Cascade Range. Join guest speaker, Bill Nye as he talks about climate change, the effects of the eruption, and how we can all work together to help save the world. The event is located at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall 1037 SW Broadway, Portland, Oregon. Buy tickets!
May 19 10:00 - 6:00 pm: “It’s a Blast” celebration at Johnston Ridge Observatory. Join the Mount St. Helens Institute at Johnston Ridge Observatory to mark the 38th anniversary of the 1980 eruption. There will be hands-on activities and prizes in addition to the award-winning movies, ranger talks, exhibits, and gift shop. All admission collected on this day will support the Mt. St. Helens Institute’s programs, including youth programming.
June 2 All-day: Celebrate National Trail Day at Mount St. Helens! Enjoy free entrance to all forest service day-use sites. Visit for free and hike one of the trails that leave from Johnston Ridge Observatory or the Coldwater Lake area.
June 9 All-day: National Get Outdoors Day is another recognized fee-free day for the forest service day-use sites. Get outside with the entire family and enjoy your public lands!
Science Learning Center at Coldwater
Aside from the Johnston Ridge Observatory which introduces hundreds of thousands of people to Mount St. Helens yearly, the nearby Science Learning Center also offers hands-on education programs year round to thousands of youth. This space also doubles as an event space, for those interested in hosting events, meetings, or overnight groups visit Mount St. Helens Science and Learning Center.
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