Mount St. Helen's looms over Science and Learning Center at Coldwater.
While the upper reaches of the Spirit Lake Memorial Highway that lead to the ever-popular Johnston Ridge Observatory are now closed for the winter, the Coldwater Science and Learning Center that sits just down the road has a slate of activities planned in the upcoming months.
The next opening will happen on Saturday, Nov. 4. That date will serve to kick off the winter season when visitors will be welcomed to the Coldwater Science and Learning center in the shadow of Mount St. Helens each weekend while the Johnston Ridge Observatory remains closed.
Saturday’s event will feature live music by Raeann Phillips, art workshops with biologist and artist Natalie Tonn, U.S. Forest Service ranger talks, volcano and winter themed crafts, a Mount St. Helens photo booth and an on-site lunch. The festivities are scheduled to take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
A full schedule is available at mshslc.org/events/#slcopening.
Winter visitors can hike or snowshoe nearby trails around the volcanic monument. At the Coldwater Science and Learning Center, visitors can watch two educational films about the 1980 eruption, explore educational displays and converse with experts on the surroundings.
The event is free but does have a $10 suggested donation to cover lunch and other activities.
The Science and Learning Center will be open on weekends through the winter from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through at least April 22 when the Johnston Ridge Observatory typically reopens for the summer.
