This field trip will introduce participants to the remarkable geology and biology of Mount St. Helens. It will be led by Dr. Keith Swenson, Adjunct Professor of Natural Sciences at Multnomah University. The highlight will be a 2.5 mile (round trip) hike on the Harmony Trail to Spirit Lake and its floating log mat. In addition, participants will visit an old-growth forest, historic Bear Meadow, Meta Lake, and Windy Ridge. Good physical fitness is required as we will be hiking about four miles, including a 600 foot climb out from Spirit Lake. The trip will meet at 8:30 A.M. in the rest area in “downtown” Cougar, WA. From there we will carpool to the mountain. Return time to Cougar will be approximately 5 P.M. A forest day pass is required  and may be purchased for $5 in Cougar or at Bear Meadow. Additional information will be sent to registrants prior to the trip.

Trip leader: Keith Swenson (khswenson@live.com)