The Coldwater Lake Recreation Area is located 45 miles east of Castle Rock in the heart of the Mount St. Helens blast zone near the Science and Learning Center at Coldwater and Johnston Ridge Observatory.
Visitors can experience the effects the May 18, 1980, eruption had on the Coldwater Valley, including the creation of a new lake.
Kayaking and hiking is popular at the lake. Combustion engines are prohibited on the lake, but anglers can reach trophy trout by electric motors, rowing or kicking. The 0.6 miles accessible Birth of a Lake Interpretive Trail allows visitors to enjoy close up views of Coldwater Lake.
Another hike circles the lake.
