Hiking the Harmony Trail

Harmony Trail #224

Length:1 One Way

Season of Use:summer to fall

Elevation:3400 to 4000 feet above sea level

Visitor Use:High

Location:begins, Harmony Viewpoint, Forest Road 99; ends, Spirit Lake

Trail Talk:

Through an interpretive sign, you can share in the memories of the people who once came to vacation at rustic Harmony Falls Lodge and fell in love with the timeless beauty of Spirit Lake and Mount St. Helens. Imagine the morning of May 18, 1980, when a lateral blast of abrasive winds and searing gases rolled along these ridges, toppling the forest in its path. Envision a massive avalanche sliding off of Mount St. Helens, plummeting into Spirit Lake and creating a gigantic wave, sweeping the hillside of the newly blown-down trees. Discover what remains of Harmony Falls. The rest lies buried beneath an enlarged lake which floats upon the shattered mountaintop. Gaze into the crystal waters which yesterday reflected a tranquil way of life and today mirror a world of change.

Trail Facts:This maintained trail descends steeply along the north side of the ridge overlooking Spirit Lake. It provides the only access to the lake at this time. The trail ends at the shoreline. The views of Mount St. Helens, the crater, the lava dome and Spirit Lake are outstanding.

Considerations:The trail quickly drops 600 feet in elevation. Be prepared for the climb back up. Caution should be used along the shoreline; dropoffs are steep, and the shifting logs dangerous!

Connections:

Harmony Trail #224 is one of many trails exploring the blast area along Forest Road 99. Other nearby trails include Meta Lake Trail #210, Independence Pass Trail #227 and Windy Ridge Sand Ladder Trail #242. There are no direct trail connections.

Map:Spirit Lake West and Spirit Lake East quadrangles.

Restricted Area:Travel is allowed on approved trails only. Off-trail travel and camping are prohibited to protect sensitive natural features and scientific studies. Research permits are required for off-trail travel.

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