For those interested in mining and the mystery of what happens underground, this mine is worthwhile. Although there is not an actual trip into the mine (which was a vertical shaft, now sealed). There are enough other aspect of mining and support systems on display to make this stop interesting. The tour guide was quite knowledgeable and patient to answer any and all questions from us tour-ees. They have a wonderful collection of all things related to this mine including the equipment issue area, machine shop and you can even push the plunger on one that was used to set off explosions. They also have a wonderfully complete rock collection including a nice exhibit of florescent rocks, (see the photo).
This massive steel framework is a leftover from days gone by. I was very fortunate that a local vendor at the marina here, told me about one of these docks that was "just around the corner" that was still working. She was right, not far away, near the coal burning power station, was an actual working pocket dock where I was able to see an ore ship being loaded with iron pellets. I would have been really disappointed if I would have missed an actual working pocket dock. So, along with a couple of photos of the working dock, I'll add a map that shows were it is located.
The water is shockingly beautiful. A short hike up a small hill affords a great view. For those that bring their own kayak, make sure you have wheels because the launch place is not convenient to the parking area. Speaking of parking, it is a problem finding a spot, so, if you are wise, visit this lake first and early but be sure to visit.
The scenery from Jasper was nice and before too long, I could see a glacier.
I parked and hiked up a hill to get a better view because I wanted to at least touch the glacier. In times past, it was possible to hike up onto the ice. But now, perhaps partly because how the melt river blocks access, only those who pay for the "special glacier adventure", can do that.
The canyon is not quite like anything I've ever seen. It was very narrow and very deep. How wide? In some places at the service, 6 to 8 feet wide. How deep? Probably in some places the chasm was nearly 100 feet. There is a trail with bridges that afforded those hiking, glimpses into the chasm. The stream flows heavily, but because it is so deep, in some places, the roar of the stream can barely be heard. Definitely worth seeing if you are a fan of geologic features.
I'll go ahead and say it, "I like steam trains." In my opinion, this is not the best one I have ridden on, (one needs to travel to Chama, NM to ride that one,) but, this one was worth it. The "run" is short, a round trip of 12 miles, but the scenery more than compensates for the short run. The turn around point is on a really long and historical bridge that affords a great view. The employees were knowledgeable and fun and the banjo player was very talented. If you are passing through, I recommend this excursion.
"Free camping," is there any greater siren song for roadtrippers? But there is a puzzle, when I arrived at the campground, only two of the sixty sites were occupied. The lake was exceptionally beautiful and the camp sites were not skimpy by any means, so why so vacant? Three words, its the road. Yes, the road is graveled and rocky and that is not the problem, it is also pretty steep with some really tight turns and during working hours, logging trucks. Unlike me, a smarter person would have turned back in the first Kilometer or certainly the first mile, because it really is the worst. My little Ford Transit Connect with front wheel drive, was the main problem. As my van clawed and chewed its way up the logging road, it created havoc with my front tires which I have since replaced. I don't think FWD is necessary but at least an SUV with rear drive or a pickup and camper would be OK. It is pretty and quiet though, a good reward for those willing to endure a bit of slow rough road.
This trip to Mt. St. Helens was definitely worth the drive. If you stop at the Hoffstadt Bluffs Visitor Center,15000 Spirit Lake Highway where they offer helicopter tours, you can see something interesting. The car that belonged to
Reporter Dave Crockett that barely escaped the St. Helens blast. The car is at the very rear of their parking lot. Look for Dave Crockett on a video on YouTube, then you will appreciate seeing his battered car.