Volcano viewpoint now open despite snow

Volcano viewpoint now open despite snow »Play Video
CASTLE ROCK, Wash. (AP) - The highway to Mount St. Helens has reopened.
     
The Transportation Department says there were no snow slides to prevent Friday's opening but crews continue to monitor Highway 504 for avalanches.
     
Clearing the highway has allowed the reopening of the Johnston Ridge Observatory, the the closest visitors center to the volcano, just 5 miles from the crater.
     
On Sunday admission will be free to mark the 28th anniversary of the volcano's big 1980 blast.

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