Boundary Trail to Coldwater Peak is a 11.8 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Toutle, Washington that features a lake and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from May until October. Horses are also able to use this trail.
hiking
horseback riding
rock climbing
walking
forest
lake
views
wild flowers
wildlife
blowdown
rocky
snow
no dogs
The first few miles of this hike snakes around the hills across from the crater on steep hillsides that were scoured by the 600mph blast. It's not until you reach the St. Helens Lake area (formed by the eruption) that more than splintered tree bases can be found. In the winter time, the area between St. Helens Lake and Coldwater Peak tends to be covered in snow.
Unmatched views of St.Helens. This trail is very long and completely open. Recommend bringing a hat and sunglasses or the sun will wear you down.
I like the view of MSH and surrounding area, the incredible wild flowers, and the diverse elevation. The late June weather was ideal. It was crowded but not in an annoying way. We saw a mountain goat at the top in the distance.
There are some real pluses and minuses to this trail. Lots of people at beginning since it takes off from the main parking lot of Johnston Ridge Observatory. Easy to get there so no problems with rough roads. First 3 miles had some great views of Mount St. Helens with awesome display of wildflower colors. After cut off to Harry’s Ridge, definitely less people. A couple of minor sketchy areas that just require good balance and poles around the Hole in the Wall. Great views from the top of Coldwater Peak but spoiled somewhat by the equipment up there I presume aimed at St Helen’s Crater for monitoring. Take plenty of water for mostly exposed hiking and bring your NW pass for $ off on hiking and parking.
My friends and I ran/walked from Coldwater Lake parking lot to Hummock to Johnsons ridge observatory then to boundary trail. We didn't go to the end of the boundary trail, we cut off at Coldwater trail then tied into South Coldwater trail and ended up in south parking lot. AMAZING scenery but difficult.
Actually wanted to hike the Harry Ridge trail but didn't see the exit so we hiked to the peak which had an amazing view. Steep though but it was worth it.
We went the first weekend of July and all the wild flowers are in bloom. It was a little dry and in direct sun so bring a wide brimmed hat and shoes with good traction the ashy dirt gets a little slick. over all great hike with breathtaking beauty.
Great day hike,great views and few people once you get past Harry's Ridge junction.
It's a fantastic view, but not for those who experience vertigo.
Did 6 days of hiking in Washington, including Mount Rainier and North Cascades, and this was one of my favorites. Great views of Spirit Lake and St. Helens lake, as well as Mt St Helens. At the peak, could see Mt. Rainer to the north and Mt. Baker and even Hood to the south. Challenging hike, but worth it.
Wow amazing views and trail. The force of nature can never be under estimated. Great trail. Did not complete the entire trail ran out of time. It was the third trail of the day. Watch out for path narrowing after ran. Can make the hair on your neck stand up. Want to return and finish.