MT. ST. HELENS NATIONAL MONUMENT "Apes, Ash & the Ecosystem"
FULL DAY TOUR

Activities: Hiking, spelunking, interpretive nature walks, waterfall viewing, wildlife viewing, birding, ecological and
geological sightseeing with naturalist interpretation

Interests: Forest ecology, geology, glaciology, volcanology, waterfalls, caves, sustainability, botany, local natural and cultural history

Inclusions:
Hotel pick up and drop off, highly qualified naturalist guide, travel in adventure-outfitted luxury Mercedes or Jeep, a Northwest-style “On Safari” lunch, scrumptious morning pastry and tea, afternoon tea, selected Oregon wine, refreshments, all entry fees and comprehensive naturalist commentary

Escape Plan:
Mt. St. Helens is unquestionably one of our region’s most iconic, well-known, and “powerful” attractions. Approaching Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument from the south, locals and visitors to Portland have the unique opportunity to enjoy both spelunking at the Ape Cave, the largest continuous lava tube in the continental United States, as well as exploring the visitor centers in and around the “Blast Zone.” Stopping to take scenic photos along the way, your naturalist will present dramatic evidence to just how well the ecosystem is recovering and the impressive ongoing reforestation project. Just five miles from the crater at the Johnston Ridge Observatory, a world-class visitor center, we take in some stunning views into the steaming volcano, the growing lava dome, and the world’s youngest glacier. Your naturalist will share the drama of the geological events surrounding the 1980 eruption through a variety of stories, facts, and walks. Experience how volcanoes are monitored and discover how Mount St. Helens has taught us new answers to old mysteries, all the while keeping an eye out for wildlife, including deer, elk, beavers, otters, and a diverse array of bird species.

NOTE: When the Johnston Ridge Observatory is closed in winter, we will drive as far as the conditions allow and take the opportunity for a snowshoe hike.

Tour Length: 12 Hours
Tour Code: EV61
Pick up: Downtown Portland Hotels
Departing: 7:30am
Returns: 7:30pm
Difficulty: Easy
Season: Year-round (Johnston Ridge Observatory closed Oct 15 – May 15)
Carbon Offsetting: Contact for a quote
Tour Cost: $195 per Escapist
Departs: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdaysand at private request

Check out our NEW overnight option that includes this itinerary plus a day of wine and waterfalls in the Columbia Gorge with luxe lodging in between!

This tour can be customized as a private tour or corporate retreat, call or email for a quote.

Thank you for exploring the Pacific Northwest with EverGreen Escapes!