Mount Saint Helens.

An uber-early start for a job interview phonecall (which neccesitated me sitting in a dark car park at 0430 so as not wake my lovely wife...), and off to Mt St Helens. Hotel was a bit of a disappointment last night, as it was close to the I5 and a railway line, so we were not best rested for the strenuous day ahead... 

Crossed purposes about which of many visitors centres we were headed for saw end, eventually, at Coldwater Lake, a nature trail just short of the Johnston Observatory. With temperatures soaring and a flat calm wind conditions, it was amazing to bask in the tranquility of the location. Dragonflies, birds, water boatmen and fish entertained us as we chilled before the big climb up.

(Cedar Wax Wing we think!)

Since the volcano last blew in 1980, the park has regenetated significantly, but not completely. You cannot help but be amazed by the St Helen's presence, with vapour still pouring ominously from its crater.

(Mrs A contemplates the possibility of... (who knows?))

Of course, we had to try the Elk burger at Fire Mountain Grill on the way back (in the mean time, one of us had tried to pedal through the 90+ degree heat - fool), and can highly recommend both burger and venue, but not riding in the heat!

(The Cycling Republic of California T-shirt has not gone down well in Oregon or Washington...)

Then one more moment taken to watch a Bald Eagle (with fish in talons!)...

... before heading to Morton (but via Toledo Airport, with Mt Rainier in the background!), and another Motel... (He had to get airplanes in somehow!)

Really looking forward to Vancouver and a long weekend!