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Hike 95 Johnston Ridge Observatory Trail Main Menu
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Legend Ten Essentials  

Hike Length: 0.5 mile loop
Elev. Change: 100' gain
Hike Difficulty: Easy
Type of Hike: Loop
Season: Mid-Summer thru Fall
Trail Condition: Paved Nature Trail
Trail Access: Excellent
Trail Signage: Excellent
Features: Views, Wildflowers, Nature Trail
Pet Friendly: No
Useage: Extreme
Permit: Observatory Permit Required
Horses: No
Mtn Bikes: No

Summary:
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This rather steep universal access trail is a must do walk while visiting the Johnston Ridge Observatory.

The trail is kinda steep, but paved and an excellent way to view and learn about the Mt. St. Helens phenomena. There are guided walks along this part of the Boundary Trail, which begins at the observatory and heads east to Mt. Adams.


The following images are random samples of the wildflowers found in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Mouseover image to view flower name, and click on image to jump to flower guide.

Directions:

From Seattle, WA
Drive south on I-5 to the junction of State Road 504. Exit the freeway, and turn left (east) onto SR504 and follow it east. At five miles you will pass the Silver Lake Visitor Center and in another 38 miles you will come to the junction to SR504 E. Bear right onto SR504 East and follow it another 8 miles to the Johnston Ridge Observatory.
(closed in winter)

From Portland, OR
Drive north on I-5 to the junction of Washington State Road 504. Exit the freeway, and turn right (east) onto SR504 and follow it east. At five miles you will pass the Silver Lake Visitor Center and in another 38 miles you will come to the junction to SR504 E. Bear right onto SR504 East and follow it another 8 miles to the Johnston Ridge Observatory.
(closed in winter)


Click on the link below to see a map taking you to the trailhead.

Map Directions


Vicinity Map


To contact the Gifford Pinchot NF for current information: Click Here.



A Virtual Hike in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Click for PDF
Click for PDF