Driving to Portland each day is such a grind; sometimes over an hour. However, living near the base of a mountain like Mt. St. Helens makes up for the long drive. Each day as I approach Battle Ground, I have an opportunity when the skies are clear, to view a beautiful and wondrous sight. If you have a free day during the early spring or summer, be sure and go the back way to the mountain. It's a longer drive, however I guarantee you will be pleased with the experience.