Questions About Mt. St. Helen's Day Trip - Please Help!

[msim]

Coming off of a cruise this summer in Seattle. Would like to make a day trip and spend one night around the volcano. Is this feasible? I've never driven in mountains and have no idea which area to try to get a hotel in. Any advice you could provide would be very appreciated. Thanks in advance

 

[newbydisney]

It is not far from the airport..a day trip is feasible from any hotel in Olympia or Tacoma. For lots of Mt St Helens info just google mt st helens visitor or visitor center. I have heard that the main viewing center is closed due to Federal Funding cutbacks. Also if it is cloudy you will not be able to see much. There are glider rides and helicopter and plane rides available depending on the weather. I recommend having a back up plan...if you have not been to the Seattle Center ( site of the World's Fair back in the 60's) and the Space Needle/Science Center etc.. this would be a great way to spend the day as well. If you need help and have a specific question PM me.

 

[aurora.in.wa]

For a one day trip, I would recommend Mt. Rainier over Mt. St. Helens. Rainier is grander, closer, offers more accommodations, and you'll be able to see it in most weather conditions. The same cannot be said for Mt. St. Helens. Often times, the mountain is shrouded in fog, which makes seeing the mountain impossible.

 

[visitingapril09]

For a one day trip, I would recommend Mt. Rainier over Mt. St. Helens. Rainier is grander, closer, offers more accommodations, and you'll be able to see it in most weather conditions. The same cannot be said for Mt. St. Helens. Often times, the mountain is shrouded in fog, which makes seeing the mountain impossible.

Have to agree. If you have a strong desire to see St Helen's from a historical point of view that is one thing. However, if you want a taste of Northwest Volanic peaks........definately check out Rainier! It's closer to Seattle too.