Kettle Falls Cottages

Back in 1980, Ryan Lake and its adjacent campgrounds and wilderness area was supposed to lie outside the predicted blast zone for the impending eruption of Mount St. Helens. The lake lies a bit more than twelve miles from the mountain, and geologists had designated only 10-mile radius as a "red zone" around the volcano.

But volcanoes don't consult with geologists before cracking open their domes. So, on May 18th of that year, when St. Helens finally erupted, the effects of the blast were felt well beyond their predicted radius. And Ryan Lake was not spared.

Sadly, three campers backpacking through the local complex of trails did not make it out in time.

Today, the area around Ryan Lake remains much as it was immediately after the blast. Toppled trees are everywhere. There is thick ash underfoot, and wherever you walk on the short six-tenths of a mile trail around the lake, you will see evidence of that day.

The grounds have been turned into a self-guided interpretative center. There are signs along the way to inform visitors of the extent of the devastation (one sign sits by a a tree stump, which, turned over on its side, is twelve feet high).

But the signs also outline the forest's ongoing recovery, and the efforts to aid that recovery by the Forest Service, volunteers, and even the timber industry itself.

Nowhere, though, will you see mentioned the three individuals who lost their lives here some thirty-five years ago. But when you visit, you'll be walking in their footsteps.

It is a magnificent place, full of wild beauty and the evidence of nature's ferocious power. And for those three people, who must have loved the wilderness as much as any of us who walk there, I can think of no more fitting memorial.

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Top Kettle Falls Hotel Reviews

Quiet, Comfy Columbia River Viewspot: Full Kitchen, Grill, Yard; Dogs OK

10/10 Excellent

"Great spot - was a little chilly this time of year but good experience."

Northern Comfort - private, quiet, lake view, mountains

10/10 Excellent

"Best house for a large group! Main floor has 3 areas for gathering, so you're together but separate, so conversations can be heard & shared, and people don't need to shout to be heard. Plus another living room area downstairs for kids to hang out. Sch a great house! Everything is here to cook any kind of meal, and 4 bathrooms are filled with nice towels & amenities. "

Country Living 6 miles from Colville, easy access, on a beautiful large pond!

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"The host was so amazing and accommodating for our family! It had just snowed the night before we arrived and they had done a wonderful job plowing the walkway and driveway for us. We also had a large flat deck trailer with us and they were accommodating with allowing us to unhook and park it while we stayed. Definitely will be staying anytime we come back to town!"

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