Tour Info
We will meet at the North Fork Survivors Gift Shop (9745 Spirit Lake Hwy, Toutle, WA) at 10:00 am on Saturday, Sept 9, 2017. The gift shop is located approximately 19 miles east of Castle Rock, WA on Hwy 504. In addition to the gift shop, there is a small theater, picnic tables and relics from the 1980 eruption. It will be a nice place to wait your turn on the helicopter.
The helicopter holds 3-4 people besides the pilot. The pilot will arrange the passengers according to his safety guidelines, but an effort will be made to keep couples and members with visitors together.
Before the rides begin, Sheila Alfsen will give you a thorough presentation on the 1980 eruption in the theater located in the back of the gift shop. Following that, you will be given a safety orientation. If possible, Sheila will accompany you on the ride to narrate the scenery; but if not, the pilot can point out places of special interest.
This trip limited to GSOC members and their guests only. Become a member today!
What to wear
Plan accordingly for the weather. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring a sweater as it is cooler up in the air than it is on the ground. Don't forget sunscreen!
What to bring
Bring a picnic lunch to eat while you are waiting for your turn on the helicopter. Snacks are available for purchase at the gift shop. Bring your camera and binoculars if desired.
Hillsboro Aviation is interested in your satisfaction, so if the weather is too cloudy to get a good view, we will cancel and your money will be refunded.
IMPORTANT! Sheila will consult with your pilot the day before we fly, and if he feels a weather cancellation is in order, you will be notified at our regular meeting, Friday, Sept 8, at Portland State University. If you are not planning on attending our Friday night meeting, you may text or call (text is preferred) Sheila at 503-939-6003 to verify the flight before heading out.