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At the waterfall (our destination point), looking back north, the way we came. Johnston Ridge Observatory, our starting point, is barely visible atop the second spur from the left on the ridge. I think we estimated that we had walked about seven miles.
Again, note the lack of any vegetation or life. Supposedly there were elk in the area, but I don't think I saw any. If they were there, they were camouflaged too well.
All in all, I do not recommend this area for hiking if you enjoy being near the wilderness or nature. It's nothing but vast expanses barren rock. Quite dull for my taste. There are other areas near Mt. St. Helens that aren't like that, but once you get this close, you can see for yourself it's barren. At least the north side is.
If you're in Washington, I highly recommend Mt. Rainier instead.