Cascades Volcano Observatory, Vancouver, Washington |
Visit A Volcano |
MSH05_aerial_st_helens_from_SE_02-03-05.jpg Aerial view, Mount St. Helens as seen from the southeast. USGS Photograph taken on February 3, 2005, by Matt Logan. |
Climb Mount St. Helens |
In 1987, the southern slopes of Mount St. Helens were reopened for
climbing.
Visitors can climb above the timberline year round; however
a climbing permit is required above 4,800 feet.
At 8,365 feet, the rim of Mount St. Helens provides outstanding views of the crater, lava dome, blast area, and surrounding volcanic peaks. The most popular route to the summit is Monitor Ridge, starting at Climber's Bivouac. Most climbers complete the round trip in 7 to 12 hours. The route begins on the Ptarmigan Trail #216A which gently climbs for about 2 miles to timberline. Above timberline, the route travels over steep, blocky lava flows on the lower slopes and loose, sandy volcanic ash on the upper slopes. In early summer, snow is commonly encounted, especially in gully bottoms. All climbing opportunities at Mount St. Helens are on the south slopes of the volcano. Entry into the crater is strictly prohibited. For current climbing conditions and permit information, call the "Climbing Information Line" at (360) 449-7861. -- From: U.S. Forest Service, Volcano Review: A Visitor's Guide to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument: Summer/Fall 1995, 1997, 1998
Link to:
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View from the Top |
At 8,365 feet, the rim of Mount St. Helens provides outstanding views of the
crater, lava dome, blast area, and surrounding volcanic peaks.
On a clear day Mount Rainier and Mount Adams (Washington State) and Mount Hood
(Oregon) are visible.
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Climbing Do's and Don'ts |
-- From: U.S.Forest Service, Volcano Review: A Visitor's Guide to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument: Summer/Fall 1995, 1997, 1998 |
For More Climbing and National Monument Information |
Link to: Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Website
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Headquarters
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For More Information |
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