Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
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Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Forest Headquarters Cowlitz Valley Mt. Adams Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Monument Headquarters Johnston Ridge Observatory Mount St. Helens
TTY: Phone for the Deaf
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Climbing Mount St. Helens
Mount St. Helens Climbing Update
[Last Updated: 14 January 2009]
Fall / Winter Climbing Access: Snowfall and wind will form unstable cornices (snow overhangs) on the crater rim (please see our climbing page and scroll down to cornice photo). The crater rim is unstable and can be hazardous at any time.
Attention Climbers: Winter access to south side climbing routes may be limited by road damage, snow or malfunctioning plow equipment. Check the current snopark conditions page for updated information on access to Cougar Snopark and Marble Mtn Snopark. Permits are required above 4800 foot elevation on the volcano year round. During the Nov 1 to March 31 winter climbing season permits are available at no charge by self-registration at the Climber's Register or at Marble Mtn Snopark. The Climber's Register is located at the Lone Fir Resort, 16806 Lewis River Road, Cougar, WA. (360) 238-5210.
2009 Climbing Permit Sales will begin at 9:00 a.m. PST on February 1, 2009: Permits for the April 1 October 31 climbing fee season are sold online, in-advance on a first-come, first-served basis through the Mount St. Helens Institute.
The Mount St. Helens Ten Essentials
![[ USGS Photo ] Aerial view Mount St. Helens from Spirit
Lake - June 29, 2006.](global/images/20060629-msh-from-spirit-lake-usgs.jpg)
(USGS Photo - Aerial view Mount St. Helens from Spirit Lake - June 29, 2006.)
If you already climb and hike, you already know about the Ten Essentials. Never leave the trailhead without them! Below is the Mount St. Helens Ten Essentials. (Yes, we know there are more than ten.)
The most important thing to carry with you is your good judgement, but all climbers should carry:
- Climbing Helmet or Hard Hat - Protect your head in the event of volcanic ballistics or rock fall.
- Dust Mask (N95 type) - Cover your mouth and nose in the event of ashfall or blowing dust. Dust Masks (N95 type) should be available from any large hardware store.
- Goggles or Sunglasses with Side Shields, Sunscreen - The Sun reflecting off of snow and ash is intense. Avoid contact lenses, as blowing ash and dust can be a problem. And don't forget a hat.
- Climbing Boots - Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots and gaiters to keep out snow and ash.
- Map, Compass, Route Markers - Use them to know where you are and where you are going. Be sure to tell someone at home of your plans.
- First Aid Kit - You may need to come to your own rescue, or help someone else. Be prepared!
- Knife - Handy for all kinds of purposes, especially the type with extra tools.
- Extra Food and Water - Bring at least two quarts of water per person. No water is available at Climbers Bivouac or on the climbing route. Carry plenty of food to snack on all day. Reduce packaging to eliminate trash.
- Extra Clothing - A beautiful sunny morning can turn into a cold rainy afternoon. Plan ahead! Layered clothing including full rain gear, gloves and hat. Layering allows you to adjust your clothing to different exertion levels and weather.
- Emergency signal device
- Emergency Shelter - Yes, you planned to be out on one very long day. Be prepared just in case that longer day turns into something much longer.
- Flashlight, extra batteries, and bulb - A necessity when the day is short and the trail is long.
Do Not Rely On Your Cell Phone In A Climbing Emergency!
Mount St. Helens is located in a remote area of southwestern Washington State. There are no cell phone towers within the Monument or the Gifford Pinchot National Forest surrounding the Monument. Even at altitude, reception may or may not work, depending upon the time of day, your physical location on the volcano, variable weather conditions, even the cell phone network you use. Do not rely on your cell phone in an emergency while climbing Mount St. Helens. Climbers are cautioned not to substitute a cell phone for adequate preparedness, such as carrying the Ten Essentials, and signing in and out at the Climber's Register before and after your climb.. Also be sure to tell a friend or relative where you are going and check in with them you return. Having someone that will notify authorities if you don't return can help get you the assistance you need when you need it most.
US Forest Service
Gifford Pinchot National Forest - Vancouver, WA
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument - Amboy, WA
Last Modified: Monday, 17 December 2007 at 18:07:58 EST