(Posted on Dec 13, 2018 at 08:00PM by Darby Riales)
Located 2.5 hours south of Seattle, Mount Saint Helens has a deadly history. On May 18, 1980, this active volcano became the most destructive eruption to ever hit the United States. Incarcerating 200 homes and a vast stretch of lands, this force of nature wielded an unstoppable power. The scars from this disaster are still visible today and can be viewed safely from two vantage points: Windy Ridge and Johnston Ridge.
Hikers who want more of an adrenaline rush can climb to the top of the mountain and peer down into the summit caldera. If you are feeling even more adventurous, you can head underground into a network of subterranean lava tubes known as Ape Cave. This 2.6-mile trail will require you to bring a flashlight and wear heavy clothes. It’s very cold down there.
Jump in the 2017 Nissan Titan XD SV and enjoy the beauty of this slumbering beast. Growling under the hood is a turbocharged 5.0-liter V8 diesel engine that generates 310 hp and 555 lb-ft of torque. Its single cab body style features an 8-foot bed that is perfect for hauling camping gear and camera equipment. Store extra batteries in the overhead console and listen to satellite radio along the way.