Cascades Volcano Observatory, Vancouver, Washington

Volcanoes of the Seattle Area, Washington State

• Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
  -- 70 miles southeast
  Mount Rainier volcano (14,410 feet) dominates the landscape of a large part of western Washington. It stands nearly 3 miles higher than the lowlands to the west and 1.5 miles higher than the surrounding mountains. The base of the volcano spreads over an area of about 100 square miles, and lava flows that radiate from the base of the cone extend to distances of as much as 9 miles. The flanks of Mount Rainier are drained by five major rivers and their tributaries. Mount Rainier National Park is located in west-central Washington, approximately 108 kilometers (68 miles) south-southeast of Seattle and 150 kilometers (95 miles) north-northeast of Portland, Oregon. The south entrance is accessible year round from U.S. Highway 12 and State Highways 7 and 706, while the northeast entrance is accessible on a seasonal basis via State Highway 410. -- Excerpts from: Crandell, 1971, and Pringle, 1990

• Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, Washington
  -- 170 miles southeast
  Numerous viewpoints and miles of trails have been created for you to explore by car and foot. During the summer Forest Interpreters lead a wide range of activities, from short walks to amphitheater presentations, to help you understand and enjoy this area. Discover the wonder of winter at Mount St. Helens, where many cross-country ski and snowmobile trails have been created for you. Take I-5 South 116 miles to Exit 49 at Castle Rock, Washington. Take SR 504, 5 miles east to Mount St. Helens Visitor Center (operated by Washington State Parks). Continue east on SR 504 to the Coldwater Ridge Visitor Center at mile post 43. To reach Johnston Ridge Observatory, continue east from the Coldwater Ridge Visitor Center to the end of the road at mile post 52. -- Excerpts from: USFS Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Website, 2002

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Washington State, the Columbia River, Major Cities and Volcanoes

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