Mount St. Helens Institute e-News

Happy June! The official start of the Summer is around the corner, and we can feel it. Flowers are starting to bloom. There are more people out on trails. Students (and teachers) at Volcano Outdoor School are full of Summer energy. We also have adventuresome Summer ideas to help you celebrate.

Photo: Volunteer Allen B.

Go Into the Crater

Check out our staff favorite - the Crater Glacier Overlook Hike. An "Into the Crater - lite", this hike awards a great view of the crater in a day trip.  

Organism Spotlight: Lupines

Lupines (pronounced Loo-pins) are in bloom! At Mount St. Helens, we have two lovely lupines. One - the Prairie Lupine - is the unassuming hero of the Pumice Plain. The Prairie Lupine (Lupinus lepidus) - on the left - has a low stature, velvety green-gray leaves and small purple flowers; it grows in exposed areas with rocky soil. An early arrival on the Pumice Plain, Prairie Lupine helped improve soil for future plants and animals. The Broadleaf Lupine (Lupinus latifolius) - on the right - grows taller (up to 3 feet) with deep green hairless leaves; it grows in meadows. Both the Prairie Lupine and Broadleaf Lupine are beginning to bloom on the Hummocks Trail. Wait till late June or early July to see Prairie Lupine on the Pumice Plain - it's spectacular. 

A huge welcome to our 2024 Guide Team - Matty, Dave, Noah, Matt, Chris, Sarah, Kate, Heather (and Gary, not pictured)! Our guides support our guided adventurers on trails and the climbing route, while sharing information and stories about our favorite volcano. 

Meet our Guides

Base Camp: Relax and Explore

Enjoy the weekend while we provide the details.

Join us for a weekend at our Base Camp. Come campout in a beautiful spot! We'll take care of the food and optional activities. If you prefer to choose your own adventure, that's fine too. Kayak, fish, join us on hike, or bask in the awe. There will also be a s'mores bar! 

"Base Camp is very welcoming. A unique experience getting to camp so close to the mountain and there's plenty of free time to explore the area, do the hikes and activities you'd like." ~Mackenzie

Do you know a group of kids who want to explore and learn at a volcano? We have a few openings for summer and fall Outdoor School. 

"From the bus ride, science learning, beautiful views, and the kind staff - all of it made for a wonderful day. We have kids who have never been outside for that long who really came alive during our trip." ~5th grade teacher. 

Inquire Now

 Sky & Star Party | August 3rd

Photo: Volunteer Yvonne B.

Sky & Star Party at Mount St. Helens is an astronomical adventure with Rose City Astronomers and Friends of Galileo.

TWO TICKET OPTIONS:  Overnight spots are mostly filled, but we have some evening only tickets still available. 

Space is limited! Register ASAP to secure your spot! 

Register Now

Prepare to Climb Mount St. Helens

Are you thinking about climbing Mount St. Helens this Summer? Whether you join an educational climb with our guides or climb on your own, we have a curated list of resources to help you prepare for a successful climb. 

 

Photo: Volunteer Ted S.

You will find information on acquiring climbing permits, route descriptions, conditions, suggested packing list and how to train for success. 

Climb Resources

       The Science & Learning Center

The Mount St. Helens Science and Learning Center at Coldwater is open to the public from 10 am to 4 pm 7 days a week through the end of October. Our partners - the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument and Discover Your Northwest - will greet you with talks, a video, displays and a gift shop. Johnston Ridge Observatory visitor center remains closed. 

👋Give us a wave and hello if you see Mount St. Helens Institute staff at the center running our Volcano Outdoor School and Summer Events. 👋

Thank you for inspiring curiosity! 

Thank you to everyone who contributed to our Spring Campaign. Through your generosity, we raised over $33,000 this spring to transform awe into curiosity and lifelong learning. We welcome gifts year-round.

 

Give today!

Save the Date: Boots & Bowties

What do gowns, ghouls and gaiters have in common? Boooots & Bowties. Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 26, 2024 to join the Mount St. Helens Institute at ilani Casino Hotel for our annual gala!