For those wanting to find the ultimate views of Mount St Helens, the Cliffside Johnston Ridge Observatory offers a unique vantage point of the debris from the eruption. It allows visitors to see the entire volcano, including the crater, lava dome as well as the blast zone, in which it is built. The observatory also has available eyewitness accounts from individuals who survived the recent eruption. Theater programs and educational talks and walks are also on offer.

24000 Spirit Lake Hwy, Toutle, WA 98649, Phone: 360-274-2140

Johnston Ridge Observatory is 1 hour from Castle Rock. Take State Route 504 east for 52 miles:


Plan Your Trip

Get Ready to Go!

Need some more help?


Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.