Hummocks Trail at Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

We went to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument on Saturday.  It's hard to believe that it's been 30 years since Mount St. Helens blew back on May 18, 1980!  The terrain really, really changed after the blow, but plants are growing well, and animals are enjoying the area.  It's beautiful, even though when we went it was cloudy!

We hiked Hummocks Trail. It's a 2 1/2 miles long loop. On the Washington Trails Associations website it's listed as a day hike that is "good for kids," and I would agree.  It was a little tiring for my almost six year old, but he made it just fine.  It's good to bring snacks and water with you, but of course don't leave any litter!  Also, there are signs asking hikers to stay on the trail and to not keep pumice.

If you are looking for a nice trail to walk with your family, this is a great one to consider.  You can see other trails listed here:  Mount St. Helens Hikes.

To learn more about Mount St. Helens and how it's changed, you may enjoy watching Nova's video Mount St. Helens: Back from the Dead (you can watch it online).

Mount St. Helens
(picture taken by my older daughter)

dwarf lupine

this tree was felled by a beaver

(picture taken by my older daughter)

we think this is a beaver lodge

beaver dam

(picture taken by my older son)

Indian paintbrush (I'm not sure yet which type)

wooly bear caterpillar

 

Toutle River

(picture taken by my younger daughter)

Mount St. Helens covered by fog

(picture taken by my older son)

rock pigeon

(picture taken by my older son)

~*~ We participate in Outdoor Challenge Monday. ~*~