May 18, 1980 "the north face of this tall symmetrical mountain collapsed in a massive rock debris avalanche. In a few moments this slab of rock and ice slammed into Spirit Lake, crossed a ridge 1,300 feet high, and roared 14 miles down the Toutle River. The avalanche rapidly released pressurized gases within the volcano. A tremendous lateral explosion ripped through the avalanche and developed into a turbulent, stone-filled wind that swept over ridges and toppled trees. Nearly 150 square miles of forest was blown over or left dead and standing. At the same time a mushroom-shaped column of ash rose thousands of feet skyward and drifted downwind, turning day into night as dark, gray ash fell over eastern Washington and beyond. Wet, cement-like slurries of rock and mud scoured all sides of the volcano. Searing flows of pumice poured from the crater. The eruption lasted 9 hours, but Mount St. Helens and the surrounding landscape were dramatically changed within moments."

Had an opportunity to visit Mt. St. Helen this weekend. I hiked up Norway Pass for an breath taking view of this active volcano. I was not disappointed. It always impresses me to see massive trees blown down like match sticks by the volcanic blast. Amid the destruction, there are signs of renewal. Wild strawberries, blue berries and other shrubs cover the mountain side. Clumps of evergreen are starting to sprout again. Elk's droppings and track marks are seen along the trail.

[RobG]

Wow! The sharpness and colour - amazing! I saw Mt St Helens from Mt Ranier in 1982, still smoking from the eruption. FWIW the horizons don't look quite right, but the images are stunning.

[jnguyen]

Wow! The sharpness and colour - amazing! I saw Mt St Helens from Mt Ranier in 1982, still smoking from the eruption. FWIW the horizons don't look quite right, but the images are stunning.

Thank you for pointing out the horizon on the second photo. It is slightly tilted.