Instinctive OutdoorsFind Your Wild
Map showing the location of Lahar Viewpoint Interpretive Site
ExploreWashingtonCampground

Lahar Viewpoint Interpretive Site

Skamania County, Washington

Overview

This 1980 mudflow area offers an outstanding view of Mount St. Helen’s (non-crater) south side. The v-notch on the mountain once held Shoestring Glacier, which was liquified along with the surrounding mountain snow from the heat of the eruption. Water mixed with rock and ash, creating a giant lahar (destructive mudflow originating on a volcano) which swept down St. Helens at 100 miles per hour. It raced through the forest and across this location, shearing off most trees and debarking others as far as 30 feet up. A variety of trees, plants and wildlife now inhabit this once-barren mudflow. Accessible Adventures Video

Amenities

  • WaterNo
  • ElectricNo
  • PetsNo
  • ReservableNo

Conditions

Live conditions for this spot aren't wired up yet. Until they are: check the forecast for Skamania County, Washington, pack layers, and leave word with someone before you head out.

Reviews

When accounts launch, this is where trip reports, ratings, and field notes for Lahar Viewpoint Interpretive Site will live — real notes from people who actually went, not star averages from nowhere.