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Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument |
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Climbing Mount St. HelensMount St. Helens Climbing Update[Last Updated: 5 May 2009]Winter / Spring Climbing Access: Winter snowfall and wind has formed large, 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: 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.) 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:
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. |
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US Forest Service |