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.

Change your mind
Book hotels with free cancellation
Treat yourself
Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
Sign in
Be picky
Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

In two weeks

In two months

In three months

In four months

No exact matches found, but these alternatives could be just right

Recommended hotels in Kettle Falls

Motel in Kettle Falls

Christopher

Holiday Home in KETTLE FALLS

Danielle L.

HK$2,338 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Jan - 28 Jan

Apartment in Kettle Falls

"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...

Susan D.

HK$1,918 total

includes taxes & fees

21 Jan - 22 Jan

Holiday Home in Kettle Falls

HK$8,093 total

includes taxes & fees

20 Jan - 21 Jan

Silas W.

HK$2,004 total

includes taxes & fees

25 Jan - 26 Jan

Holiday Home in Republic

David L.

HK$1,419 total

includes taxes & fees

23 Jan - 24 Jan

Lodge in Northport

Evangeline W.

HK$6,624 total

includes taxes & fees

20 Jan - 21 Jan

View all properties

Find holiday rentals that suit your style

Cabins

Private holiday homes

Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Top Kettle Falls Hotel Reviews

Columbia Point Resort

10/10 Excellent

"Convenient, peaceful location. Clean, cozy room and very friendly staff. I will definitely stay again next time I’m in the area. "

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."

Find out more about Kettle Falls