Our first view.
The view from the Johnston Ridge Observatory about 8 miles away
Seismographs placed around the area radio their data back to recorders to track changes in the volcano.
We took a hike on a trail from the observatory.
Even 30 years after the eruption the devastation is evident.
Trunks and stumps of trees that were leveled by the initial blast.
But life is returning, first to sheltered areas on the back sides of ridges in and behind fallen logs.
We found this along the trail. We didn't take it apart to investigate what it contained.
It looks like a caddisfly larval case but
They are normally found in streams, I have no idea what it was doing in this dry area.
If you can offer another theory as to what it is let me know.
A spring in a iron rich spot has made the orange streak below ash hummocks left by the volcano.
A glacier has formed in the crater with a meltwater steam cascading down from it.
In the center of the crater there is a lava dome.
In 2006 it was measured at 1300 ft above the 1986 crater floor and it has had periods of growth since then.
Steam issuing from vents changes every minute.
Closer views.
The glacial stream joins with the outflow from Spirit Lake to form the north fork of the Toutle river.
We saw this elk when we were walking on a trail well down the mountain from the observatory.
On our way out to the coast we explored a rain forest.
No rain while we were there but from the lush trees, ferns, and moss it was easy to imagine.
The peaceful, quiet, and beautiful coast as we drove around the Olympic peninsula.
Beaches all to ourselves.
The ferry ride from Kingston to Edmonds Washington.
We were fortunate to have weather clear enough to see Mt Rainer nearly 80 miles away.
Archie McPhee A truly unique experience.
With nearly everything you didn't know you wanted.
By train from Seattle to Vancouver.
The station in Seattle is being restored to its original glory.
Boarding.
They still use the luggage wagons like those I remember from 60 years ago.
Under way.
Sights along the way.
The trip is mostly along the coast with stops in some of the towns we passed through.
Edmonds (again), Everett, Stanwood, Mount Vernon, Bellingham, and then we arrived in Vancouver, BC
In Vancouver we did some sightseeing and set out on our Alaska cruise.
