Boundary Trail: Hummocks Trail to Johnston Ridge Observatory
| Type: |
Day Hike - Out and Back |
| Distance (Total): |
9.2 miles / 14.8 km |
| Elevation Gain: |
1,700 feet / 518 meters |
| Minimum Elevation: |
2,500 feet / 762 meters |
| Maximum Elevation: |
4,200 feet / 1,280 meters |
| Hiking Season: |
- Summer
- Fall
|
| Things To See: |
- Meadows
- Mountain Views
- River
- Wildlife
- Woods
|
| Difficulty: |
Strenuous |
| Rating: |
Trail has not been rated. |
| Nearby Town: |
Kid Valley, Washington, United States |
The Boundary Trail starts at its intersection with the Hummocks Trail 229, 0.5 mile east of the Hummocks Trailhead. Elk can often be seen around the junction, grazing in the grassy meadows. The trail crosses debris avalanche deposits before beginning the steep and steady climb of Johnston Ridge. Switchbacks cross patches of blast shattered stumps and blown down trees. After the initial 1200-foot elevation gain, the trail traverses Johnston Ridge, offering views of the debris-filled North Fork Toutle River valley and Mount St. Helens. The trail then passes Loowit Viewpoint, climbs 200 feet in 0.8 mile, and brings you to Johnston Ridge Observatory, 4.6 miles from the junction with Hummocks Trail 229.
