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

*High avalanche danger through Monday, May 11.  Climbers should expect full winter conditions on Mount St. Helens . Snow depth at Marble Mountain Sno-Park is approximately 2-3 feet. At timberline, snow depth is 4 to 7 feet. Above timberline snow depth is variable due to wind blown conditions. Rapidly changing temperatures may result in highly variable snow conditions, and ice. Snowshoes with cleats or skis with climbing skins are currently recommended to climb Mount St. Helens . It is also recommended that climbers have, and know how to use an ice axe and crampons. Climbers should be prepared for extreme weather and rapidly changing conditions.

*Avalanche, To reduce your exposure to avalanche potential, avoid cornices, snow loaded slopes and gully bottoms. For further information please read the Backcountry Avalanche Statement for the Cascades, www.seawfo.noaa.gov/products/SABSEA

Climbers can expect to use the winter climbing route out of the Marble Mountain Snow Park.

 
The Worm Flows Climbing Route, from Marble Mountain Snow-Park, is the most direct route to the summit of Mount St. Helens. 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 approximately 4,800’ elevation round trip 12 miles.

The Monitor Ridge Climbing Route, 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.

Climbers can expect varied conditions in terrain and weather on Mount St. Helens, including snow on the upper levels of the volcano. Climbers should be prepared for extreme weather and rapidly changing conditions.

Please use caution and stay back from the unstable crater rim and overhanging snow cornices.

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