Lahar Viewpoint

IMG_0276Heather is motioning toward where the massive lahar seen to her left originated: Mount St. Helens.

IMG_0280Now everything is calm but back in 1980 when Mount St. Helens awoke, this area would not have been safe to be anywhere near.  A huge flow of rock, mud, ice, and other volcanic debris raced down this canyon, scouring the land.
IMG_0284What was once a beautiful, classic Cascade peak is now a jagged reminder of the active volcanology that builds the Cascade Mountains.

IMG_0295Another view of the mountain from a little further down the road.


Lava Canyon



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An interesting old lava flow was exposed in Lava Canyon after a powerful lahar tore down the southeast flank of Mount St. Helens, scouring out organic debris and built up forest detritus.  The Lava Canyon of today is a beautiful, unexpected place at the boundary of lush, green forests and volcanic desolation.
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IMG_0244The small bluff on the other side of the ravine is where a wall of lava coming down from Mount St. Helens once stopped.  It is now frozen in time.
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Interesting cataracts have been cut through the old lava flow by the Muddy River.

IMG_0247Several layers of lava flows are visible here.

IMG_0249Rushing water.

IMG_0250A suspension foot bridge high above the gorge below.

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IMG_0254Looking up the river from the middle of the suspension bridge.

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IMG_0260The suspension bridge from downstream.

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IMG_0267At a steel bridge going across the cataracts.

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IMG_0270Where the water plunges off the frozen lava flow.