Boundary West — Monday, Aug. 26, 2002

South Cascades > Mount St. Helens

Hiked Boundary Trail #1 from the Johnston Ridge Observatory to Harry's Ridge. Stopping by the observatory is a fine idea since the movie describes how the geology you see along the hike was created by the events of the eruption (plus you get a free administrative pass when you show them your NW Forest Pass card). In less than one hour from observatory (just after you pass the section lovingly labeled ""caution - steep and very narrow trail"") you reach a viewpoint of Spirit Lake and a very good view of the crater (better than at observatory). Another hour lands you on top of Harry's Ridge (off on a marked side trail) that has the best vantage of the crater. Hiking there at mid-day (such as I did) is not the best move since you're looking into the sun. Trail in good condition (and few people past the 20 minute point) and no biting bugs (but plagues of locusts that to walk through).