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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"This property is located on beautiful acreage with many trees. It is very private. The hosts are friendly and very responsive. The beds are comfortable and there is air conditioning, which we appreciated because it was hot and smokey from a nearby wildfire.The cooking facilities are very limited. There is no range or cooktop. We used the old hot plate to boil water, but I would not try to cook a meal on it. There is a microwave that could be used to nuke prepared meals.The lighting in the living...

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Fridge, microwave, stovetop, coffee/tea maker

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Top Kettle Falls Hotel Reviews

Selkirk Motel

10/10 Excellent

"Clean, comfortable room and a very friendly and welcoming staff. The warm cookies were wonderful."

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

10/10 Excellent

"Great country home with a pond right off the deck! We had deer visit us in the yard as well as ducks and geese in the pond. Full kitchen, 2 bath rooms and very comfortable beds. Thank you to our Host"

Charming Waterfront Pine Cabin on Curlew Lake

10/10 Excellent

"This was an absolute pleasure to stay at. What a lovely home. The view was stunning. The wildlife on the lake was fun to watch. We got to see baby otters play on the dock. The location is great. Host was extraordinarily friendly and helpful. Seamless check in and out. Beds were comfortable with plenty of extra blankets and pillows. Towels were plentiful and this place was white glove clean. Well exceeding my expectations. We definitely hope to return."

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Highest Price	$10,799

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Selkirk Motel

Comfort Inn Colville

Benny's Colville Inn

Modern. Private. Spacious. Fully stocked. Family friendly. Cozy. RV hookup.

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

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Columbia Point Resort

Centrally located for all your activities!

Charming Waterfront Pine Cabin on Curlew Lake

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