Boundary, Devil's Elbow, Johnston Ridge and Eruption Trail

Starting your adventure near Skamania County, Washington, this loop trail spans approximately 8 kilometers (around 5 miles) with an elevation gain of about 500 meters (1,640 feet). The trailhead is conveniently located near the Johnston Ridge Observatory, a significant landmark that provides ample parking and facilities.

Getting There

To reach the trailhead, you can drive from Portland, Oregon, which is about a 2-hour drive. Take I-5 North to Exit 21 for Woodland, then follow WA-503 East and WA-504 East to the Johnston Ridge Observatory. Public transport options are limited, so driving is the most practical way to get there.

Trail Overview

The loop trail combines the Boundary, Devil's Elbow, Johnston Ridge, and Eruption trails, offering a diverse hiking experience. The trail is rated medium in difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Key Sections and Landmarks

Boundary Trail

Starting from the Johnston Ridge Observatory, the Boundary Trail offers panoramic views of Mount St. Helens and the surrounding blast zone. This section is relatively flat for the first 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles), making it a good warm-up. Keep an eye out for wildflowers in the spring and summer months.

Devil's Elbow

As you transition to the Devil's Elbow section, the trail becomes steeper, gaining about 200 meters (656 feet) in elevation over the next 2 kilometers (1.2 miles). This part of the trail is more rugged, with loose rocks and narrow paths. Trekking poles can be helpful here. The views of the Toutle River Valley are breathtaking, and you might spot elk grazing in the distance.

Johnston Ridge

The Johnston Ridge section is a highlight, offering close-up views of the crater and lava dome of Mount St. Helens. This part of the trail is about 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) long and relatively flat, making it a good spot to catch your breath and take in the scenery. Interpretive signs along the way provide historical context about the 1980 eruption, making this a great educational segment.

Eruption Trail

The final section, the Eruption Trail, loops back towards the Johnston Ridge Observatory. This 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) stretch is moderately steep, with an elevation gain of about 100 meters (328 feet). The trail is well-maintained and offers several viewpoints where you can see the impact of the eruption on the landscape. The trail ends back at the observatory, where you can explore exhibits and learn more about the geological history of the area.

Wildlife and Flora

Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and numerous bird species. The flora is equally diverse, with wildflowers like lupine and Indian paintbrush adding splashes of color to the landscape. The area is also home to unique plant species that have adapted to the volcanic soil.

Navigation

For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can enhance your hiking experience and ensure you stay on track.

Historical Significance

The region holds immense historical significance due to the catastrophic eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18, 1980. The eruption reshaped the landscape, creating the unique terrain you'll traverse on this hike. The Johnston Ridge Observatory itself is named after David A. Johnston, a volcanologist who was monitoring the volcano and tragically lost his life during the eruption.

This loop trail offers a blend of natural beauty, challenging terrain, and historical insights, making it a must-visit for any hiking enthusiast.