A small crowd lines the edge of the outdoor terrace at Johnston Ridge Observatory on Mt St Helens
The reward at the end of the drive up the Toutle River Valley is this stunning view into the crater of Mt. St. Helens from the terrace at Johnston Ridge Observatory. The visitor center here offers the best views into the crater left by the explosion and eruption of May 18, 1980.

The mountain is currently experiencing a new eruptive phase with renewed domebuilding. In this picture, a wisp of steam and gas can be seen rising out of the crater.

Trails lead away from the often crowded Visitor Center to better views with smaller crowds.

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All materials on this site are copyright 1992-2007 by Doug Gorsline / ashcreekimages.com.
Please email me at douggorsline@comcast.net
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This picture of the crater of Mt St Helens shows both domes and the Crater Glacier as well.
A closeup of the domes inside the crater of Mt St Helens.
Shattered trees frame a view of the summit of Mt St Helens and the Blast Zone.
This photo is a tight view of the crater area. It shows both domes and some of the new glacier.4
Shattered stumps in the foreground with the crater of Mt St Helens beyond the Toutle River.4
A closeup of the old and new domes. A spine of extruded rock is visible through the steam.4
Ash Creek Images
Photographs of the West by Doug Gorsline

The View into Mt St Helens' Crater from the Johnston Ridge Observatory.