Guide books come in handy when planning any outdoor adventure. These guides feature everything Mount St. Helens, including the history of the 1981 eruption, recreation, visitor centers, and camping. Here are some of the best I've found.
1. Mount St. Helens: The Eruption & Recovery of a Volcano
Learn about the eruption and recovery of Mount St. Helens, including the status of flora and fauna. Filled with photos, this book makes for a great learning experience, virtual visit, or souvenir.
2. A Complete Guide to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
Published by Mountaineers Books, "A Complete Guide to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument: For Hiking, Skiing, Climbing & Nature Viewing" provides a wealth of information for volcano visitors. In addition to recreation info, you will learn about the history, geology, and biology in and around the volcanic landscape.3. Hiking Mount St. Helens
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument has over 200 miles of trails for hikers and climbers. This detailed guide is organized by region. In addition to trail information, this guide provides backcounty tips and regulations and a hiker's checklist.4. 100 Hikes in Washington's South Cascades and Olympics
The full title of this high-quality guide book is "100 Hikes in Washington's South Cascades and Olympics: Chinook Pass, White Pass, Goat Rocks, Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams." Hike details, trails descriptions, maps, and photos are included for 100 of the best hikes to be found in the Mount St. Helens region, and beyond.