Coldwater Peak, Harry's Ridge & Pumice Plain

Temporary Closure

In May 2023, a landslide on SR-504 caused significant damage to the Spirit Lake Outlet Bridge at milepost 49. The upper portion of SR-504 between mileposts 45.2 and 51 will remain closed to the public for the remainder of 2023 and into spring 2024. Visit the WSDOT website for updates.

on the trail

All three of these trips leave from the Boundary Trail trailhead near the Johnston Ridge Observatory, and they share the first 2.5 miles of the Boundary Trail.

coldwater peak

Hike on the Boundary Trail until you reach the turnoff for Coldwater Peak. On the way, enjoy wildflowers, pass by a natural arch and take in views of St. Helen Lake and Spirit Lake. It's 12.8 miles round trip with 1,900 feet of elevation gain and a high point of 5,727 ft.

harry's ridge

Hike the Boundary Trail until you reach the junction with Harry's Ridge Trail. The trail winds through hummocks, meadows of wildflowers and provides sweeping view of Spirit Lake, Mt Adams, Mt Margaret backcountry and Johnston Ridge. It's 8.2 miles round trip with 200 feet of elevation gain and a high point of 4,752 ft.

Truman Trail—Pumice Plain

Hike the Boundary Trail until its junction with the Truman Trail. The hike across the Mount St. Helen Pumice plain into the blast zone while observing wildflowers and one of a kind views of Spirit Lake and Mount St. Helen's crater dome. It's 10.4 miles round trip with 1.075 feet of elevation gain and a high point of 4,200 ft.

notes

• At 1.6 miles, the Boundary Trail  reaches a saddle before traversing a very steep and somewhat exposed slope. This may not be appropriate for young children or people concerned about heights.
• Obtain a Monument Pass at the Johnston Ridge Observatory before starting the hike.   The Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency pass can be used.   If the observatory is not open, carry the Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Pass with you on the hike. You could be fined for hiking here without a pass.
• Off trail travel is prohibited in this area. Please stay on the trail!
  

• Suitable Activities: Day Hiking
• Seasons: July, August, September, October
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 12.8 mi
• Elevation Gain: 1,900 ft
• High Point: 5,727 ft

• Land Manager: Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument
• Parking Permit Required:
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12