Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Volcanic Activity Information

Growth of the new lava dome inside the crater of Mount St. Helens is in a pause state. Please note an eruption could intensify suddenly or with little warning and produce explosions that cause hazardous conditions within several miles of the crater and farther downwind.

For a complete current eruption update visit USGS website listed below.

Please review Active Volcano Hazards and other Climbing Safety information.   Detailed information and FAQs about the ongoing eruption is available by visiting the USGS Cascades Volcano Observatory website.  

Climbing Conditions & Route Information

The Monitor Ridge climbing route is the shortest and most direct route to the summit of Mount St. Helens. From Climbers Bivouac, follow the Ptarmigan Trail #216A to Timberline. Then follow Monitor Ridge to the crater rim. Blue plastic diamonds help guide climbers on the trail through the trees. Wooden route marking posts will help guide climbers from the timberline to the upper slopes of Monitor Ridge. The Ptarmigan trail is snow free and there are snow fields along the upper slopes of the volcano. The round trip is approximately 10 miles.

The Worm Flows Climbing Route, from Marble Mountain Sno-Park, Use the Swift Ski Trail, #244 to reach timberline. Cross to the west side of Swift Creek, just above Chocolate Falls (elev. 3,700’). Follow ridges and open slopes to the crater rim. Wooden route marking posts guide climbers from timberline to 4,800’ elevation.

Climbers should expect varied conditions in terrain and weather on Mount St. Helens and be prepared for extreme weather and rapidly changing conditions.

To reduce your exposure to avalanche potential, avoid cornices, snow loaded slopes and gully bottoms.

Glissading: Be aware that most accidents and injuries occur when people sliding on snow are unable to control their speed and stop.  Be sure you can control your speed and stop safely before you begin to glissade or slide on snow during your descent.

Additional Sources of Information

• Climbing Information Line - 360-449-7861

• USGS Current Eruption Update

• Visitor Guide to Mount St. Helens

• Monument Information - (360) 449-7800

• Mount St. Helens Institute (Online Permit Sales)

• Lone Fir Resort (Climber's Register & Permits)

• NW Avalanche Forecasts

• Detailed & Local Avalanche / Weather Forecast

• General Weather Forecast - 360-694-6136 or 503-808-2400