Hike to Crater View

A 7 mile roundtrip hike from the 4000 ft elevation to 5300 ft on the North flank of Mt. St. Helens. Weather was gorgeous with sunshine and clear skies. We had some light breeze to help us keep cool on the way up. The temperature by afternoon was around 75 degrees at Crater View.

                                                               Start of the trail head.

On the Northeast side of the flank

 

 

 

Spirit Lake to the North behind me as I make my way up to Crater View.

 

 

Willow Spring. Fresh, clean water from snowmelt that have percolated into the sandy, volcanic soils.

 

 

Lava Dome with glacier seen on the right side.

 

Big rock! Easy to lift.

 

Near trailhead after a long hike with Mt. Adams to the East.