Admission is always FREE!

Plan a 60–90-minute visit to the Forest Learning Center at Mount St. Helens.
The Forest Learning Center showcases remarkable volcano and forestry exhibits, a playground, picnic tables, a gift shop, wildlife viewing and rest area facilities. It is located inside the blast zone on the Spirit Lake Memorial Highway, 19 miles before Johnston Ridge Observatory.
Experience the story of Mount St. Helens and the recovery of forests, fish and wildlife following the eruption. Walk through the forest, hearing the sounds of the birds and animals on the mountain prior to May 18, 1980. Enter the “eruption chamber” to view an astounding video of what the forest looked like immediately after the eruption. Hear a first-hand report from a local newscaster who barely escaped. Breathtaking photographs and life-size models of loggers working in the blast zone bring the experience to life. The Forest Learning Center tells the story from nature’s perspective and gives a hands-on approach to learning in the Discovery Room where families can touch lava rocks, learn about the animals of the Pacific Northwest, and discover how trees grow.
Groups larger than 25 people are kindly asked to make reservations at least two weeks in advance by calling the Exhibit Reservation Message Number below. School field trip information is available on the website link.
The Forest Learning Center is a partnership of Weyerhaeuser, Washington State Department of Transportation and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
Location: 33.5 miles from I-5, approximately a 40-minute drive east of Castle Rock, Washington.
Directions:
From Interstate 5 in Western Washington, take Exit 49 and continue east on Highway 504 to Milepost 33. The Forest Learning Center is located at 17000 Spirit Lake Highway, Toutle, WA. Please watch for wildlife on roadways.

Gift Shop - Open daily 10 am to 4 pm - Open until October 31st
Exhibits - Will Re-Open Spring 2027

Reservation Message Number 360.414.3439
(Please leave a voicemail for groups larger than 25 people
calls will be returned within 1-2 business days during regular operating season)

Dine in Cafe. Salad Bar/Soups/Deli & Hot Sandwiches/Stellar Subs/In House Desserts/Corporate Catering-Boxed Lunches/Platters/Hot Entrees.

M-F, 11-3pm.

Free Parking in City Lot in the Back!!! The bright door!

Authentic Mexican Cuisine with a contemporary twist. We are more than your average Mexican restaurant, we are an experience, a happy hour hangout, tequila Tuesday celebration and the place to enjoy margaritas larger than life. Memories are created here.

• Waterbody: Lewis River
• Facilities: Vault toilets, picnic tables, parking
• Boat Types: Small craft, non-motorized
• Notes: Popular local launch with easy river access.

• Waterbody: Kalama River
• Facilities: Parking
• Boat Types: Small boat, kayak
• Notes: River access and boat launch for fishing or small craft.

Horseshoe Lake Park – Woodland, Washington

Located in the heart of Woodland, Washington, Horseshoe Lake Park is a vibrant community hub offering fun and recreation for all ages. The scenic lake is perfect for paddle boarding, kayaking, and boating, with calm waters ideal for a relaxing day on the water.

The park features plenty of space for picnics, a covered dining area, a playground, and open lawns for family activities. At the east end of the park, you’ll find the Rolling Freedom Skate Park, completed in 2007 through the efforts of the Woodland Rotary Club and dedicated volunteers. This popular skate park attracts riders not only from Woodland but also from across Washington and Oregon.

Throughout the year, Horseshoe Lake Park hosts some of Woodland’s most beloved community events, including Planters Days in June, Hot Summer Nights and Movies in the Park during the summer, and Winter Fest each December.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy the lake, spend time with family, or take part in local traditions, Horseshoe Lake Park offers something for everyone!