Facility · Washington ·
Managed by the USDA Forest Service
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument (National Volcanic Monument) · Open Access
Located at the end of State Highway 504 (52 miles east of Castle Rock), in the heart of the blast zone, the observatory hosts interpretive displays that tell the biological, geological, and human story of Mount St. Helens. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the volcano and crater or set out on a hike in the blast zone.
US Geological Survey Volcano Camera at Johnston Ridge Observatory - This static image is from a USGS Cascades Volcano Observatory research camera located at the Johnston Ridge Observatory, north of Mount St. Helens. The view is to the south. This camera is intended to assist the USGS with situational awareness. At times, clouds, rain, and snow obscure visibility. Because this camera is located in a harsh environment, it may sporadically breakdown and go off-line for extended periods of time before repairs can be made. The image refreshes every 5 minutes.
To protect plant and animal life and provide for visitor safety, pets are prohibited within the Monument’s restricted area. View a vicinity map. Pets are permitted only in designated pet areas and must be on a leash. Lack of shade and summer heat can endanger pets left in cars. For the safety and comfort of your pet, please arrange to leave your pet at home.
Contact Johnston Ridge Observatory (360) 274-2140 or Mount St. Helens Administrative Headquarters (360) 449-7800 for information on where it is safe and legal to bring your pets.
Learn more about the area in this Accessible Adventures Video:
From Castle Rock, WA take State Route 504 east for 52 miles to Johnston Ridge Observatory at the end of State Route 504.
46.27555, -122.21606 · 46°16'32.0"N 122°12'57.8"W
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
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| High °F | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Low °F | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Precip in | 12.5 | 9.8 | 9.8 | 7.3 | 5.2 | 3.7 | 1.0 | 1.7 | 3.8 | 9.4 | 13.9 | 13.7 |
1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 2 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.
Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-02-25.
Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.
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