Lift off from Troutdale and circle the scarred bowl of Mt. St. Helens on a one-hour air tour that places you above the 1980 eruption zone, the Columbia River Gorge, and the distant cone of Mount Hood. Weather-dependent and intimate, this flight offers geological perspective and photography opportunities few other views can match.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You taxi along a sun-warmed apron in a small four-seater; the pilot runs through a quick checklist and the airplane’s propeller becomes a steady pulse. Troutdale’s low buildings fall away and suddenly the Columbia River Gorge opens like a ripped curtain — cliffs dropping, rivers daring you with whitewater braided through basalt. The plane banks, and Mt. St. Helens comes into view: a jagged, bowl-shaped crater rimmed with old snow and a moonscape of pumice and fallen trees.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
60 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for people of most fitness levels; must be able to enter/exit a small airplane and sit for the flight
Wildlife
History
Mount St. Helens’ May 18, 1980 eruption blew out the volcano’s north side, killing 57 people and reshaping the surrounding landscape; the area is now a protected volcanic monument.
Conservation
The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument manages recovery and public access—minimize noise and disturbance, follow posted closures, and pack out all trash to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Mt. St. Helens Air Tour by Envi Adventures today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early and be checked in
All passengers must be present at least 20 minutes before departure; late arrivals risk cancellation and heavy rescheduling fees.
Provide accurate weights
The operator caps group weight and requires individual passenger weights at booking — have them ready to avoid rebooking fees.
Bring a fast lens and spare battery
Windows are slightly reflective; a 24–70mm or 70–200mm and an extra battery will maximize usable shots during the 60-minute flight.
Prepare for weather-driven changes
Flights are frequently rerouted or canceled due to visibility and wind; build flexibility into your schedule and book morning slots for the clearest air.
Compact mirrorless or DSLR camera
Fast autofocus and a 24–200mm range capture both wide crater panoramas and closer geological details.
Warm windproof jacket
Early-season mornings at the airfield can be cold and windy while you wait to board.
spring
Binoculars (small, 8x)
Useful for pre- and post-flight views of the gorge, river traffic, and distant wildlife.
summer
Polarizing sunglasses
Reduces glare from aircraft windows and improves visibility of ash and water features below.