|
July
12, 2002
During
the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption, as melted glacier waters rushed
down the hillsides, an amazing Lava Canyon was revealed. Created
by the eruption that occurred 3500 years ago, it was hidden under
the deep layer of dirt, grown with meadows, bushes and trees. As
lava moved down the valley, the top layer cooled much faster, letting
the inside continue its movement pushing lava and forming "colomns"
you now see.
The
first 0.4 mile of this trail is accessible. In our opinion, it is
one of the most beautiful accessible trails. A paved trail slowly
descends leading to a viewpoint with an interpretive sign at the
beginning of the canyon. From here a short Loop Trail #184A leads
to the right (south) 
.
Loop
Trail #184A crosses over a small metal bridge onto the south side
of the canyon. It gradually descends passing by the lava remains
and in 0.3 mile brings you to the suspension bridge.
The
accessible trail continues on for about 0.1 mile to a second viewpoint,
where it ends. Main trail traverses down the canyon and from this
point can be quite strenuous at times. In about 0.3 mile it reaches
the suspension bridge that connects the main trail with Loop Trail
#184A .
From the bridge the trail narrows and descends quickly along the
canyon wall .
Your effort will be rewarded with a great view of the canyon with
a magnificent waterfall and the remains of the lava flow .
In about 0.7 mile the trail reaches a 40-foot ladder down the vertical
basalt wall .
The trail evens up and in 0.2 mile reaches a junction with The Ship
Trail #184B that leads to the right (south-west). An easy 0.3 mile
descend brings you to the junction with Smith Creek Trail #225,
that goes along the north side of the Muddy River. Lava Canyon Trail
continues on crossing the river over the bridge, where it ends,
offering you one last glimpse of the canyon and lava remains .
From here Smith Creek Trail #225 goes along the south side of the
Muddy River for 1.1 mile leading east to Smith Creek Trail trailhead.
|
