How would you rate them as far as the best? We may not have time to stop at all of them. From what I can tell, these are the ones to choose from.

Forest Learning Center
Johnstone Ridge Obser.
Hoffstadt Bluffs Visitor Center
Seaquest Visitor Center
Coldwater (I believe it's closed now)

Thanks.

I'm not sure about the names but I've been to all the centers along Rt. 504. The best, hands down IMO, is the one closest to Mt St Helens, Johnstone Ridge. And yes, Coldwater is closed so far as I know (budget cuts). The Weyerhauser one that's free (the Forest Learning Center, I believe) is also worth a stop.

Thanks NWW. We'll definitely be driving to the end of the road, so Johnstone Ridge is a definite. Not sure about which of the other ones we'll visit yet.

You are both right. Coldwater was closed, which is too bad as we thought it was good. The Forest Learning Center is very good too though. Of course, the standout is Johnston Ridge. An absolute must there is the short film. DO NOT MISS IT! Yes, I am yelling Allow plenty of time after that to explore. You can head out on a hike from right there too.

Agree re Johnstone Ridge, but also, be sure go to the first one at the bottom (Silver Lake/Seaquest Vistor Ctr). It tells the story of the eruption and has fantastic films - sets the stage. You can purchase your park pass there.

Take a picnic lunch and eat at Coldwater Lake.

Hoffstadt Bluffs is mostly commercial and has the only eatery on Mt. St. Helens...like I said, take your own lunch and eat at the lake... Hoffstadt Bluff is not National Park Service center. We only stopped there one time in the many times we have been to Mt. St. Helens.

Thanks everyone for the feedback.