Coldwater Lake Trailhead

For dining options near Coldwater Lake, visitors often head to nearby towns like Castle Rock. One popular choice is Peper's 49ER Restaurant, known for its American cuisine and cozy atmosphere. It offers a variety of meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with options for takeout and dine-in. Another option, though temporarily closed, is Patty's Place at 19 Mile House, which was famous for its elk burgers and berry cobbler. For those looking for a more rustic experience, the Eco Park Resort offers casual dining with homemade pies and logger stew.

The Fire Mountain Grill, though temporarily closed, is another local favorite with a veteran-owned background, offering American comfort food and a family-friendly environment.

Accommodations near Coldwater Lake are limited but offer unique experiences. The Eco Park Resort is a secluded retreat with log cabins and yurts, providing a rustic getaway amidst nature. It features shared bathrooms, a fire pit, and casual dining options. The resort is ideal for those seeking a peaceful base for exploring Mount St. Helens. For more conventional stays, visitors often look towards Castle Rock or nearby towns for additional hotel options.

Coldwater Lake offers several amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The area includes picnic tables near the parking lot, allowing visitors to enjoy meals with scenic views. Flush toilets are available, and potable water is accessible for refilling bottles. The Birth of a Lake Interpretive Trail is ADA-accessible, featuring a half-mile concrete path and boardwalk that provides easy access to the lake's shoreline.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the area provides opportunities for fishing and boating, with restrictions to maintain environmental balance. Kayaking is a popular activity, and electric motors are allowed for those interested in exploring the lake.

Coldwater Lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include fishing, with restrictions to ensure sustainability, and kayaking, which allows visitors to explore the lake's serene waters. The area is also renowned for its hiking trails, such as the South Coldwater Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. The Birth of a Lake Interpretive Trail provides educational insights into the geological history of the area.

Visitors can also enjoy picnicking by the lake, taking advantage of the scenic views and peaceful atmosphere. For those interested in wildlife, the area is frequented by elk, especially during late spring.

Coldwater Lake offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy the area. The Birth of a Lake Interpretive Trail is ADA-accessible, featuring a concrete path and boardwalk that allows easy access to the lake's shoreline. The parking area is also wheelchair accessible, providing convenient access to the lake's amenities. Additionally, the nearby Coldwater Lake Boat Launch has wheelchair-accessible parking, though specific accessibility features for the launch itself may vary.

Parking at Coldwater Lake is conveniently located near the picnic and boating areas. The parking lot is wheelchair accessible, and there is a fee of $5 per vehicle per day. The area is well-maintained, with easy access to trails and lake activities. The proximity of the parking to the lake's amenities makes it an ideal spot for families and groups looking to spend the day exploring the area.

The parking area is also close to the Birth of a Lake Interpretive Trail, allowing visitors to easily access this educational and scenic path.

Coldwater Lake has a fascinating history, having been formed after the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. This event dramatically altered the landscape, creating a new lake and changing the local ecosystem. The area is now part of the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, attracting visitors interested in geology and natural history. The lake is also known for its trophy trout fishing, with regulations in place to ensure the sustainability of the fish population.

The unique formation of the lake and its surroundings make it a site of scientific interest, with ongoing studies on the recovery of the area's flora and fauna.

Coldwater Lake is surrounded by several attractions that make it a compelling destination. The Johnston Ridge Observatory is nearby, offering stunning views of Mount St. Helens and insights into its volcanic history. The South Coldwater Trail provides panoramic views of the lake and the mountain, making it a must-hike for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the Coldwater Ridge Visitor Center, now a learning and science center, offers educational programs and exhibits on the region's geology and wildlife.

For those interested in exploring more of the region, Seaquest State Park is a short drive away, offering camping facilities and views of Mount St. Helens.