• Introduction
  
• Climbing Permit System
• Permit Availability
• Permit Fee Structure
• Climbing Season Information
• Registration Process
• Fireside Chats
  

Climbing Permit Information

Everyone must have a climbing permit to be above 4,800 feet elevation on Mount St. Helens. The permit system has been in effect since 1987. The permit system helps to protect the volcano’s physical and biological features and processes, reduces crowding, and provides climbers with information on climbing conditions, Leave No Trace principles, and safety.

• Climbing permits are required year-round.
• Each climber must display their own climbing permit.
• Permits are valid for 24 hours starting at midnight for the date of climb.
• Maximum party size is 12 climbers.
• Access is limited to protect the volcano’s physical and biological features and processes, and to reduce crowding.

During the limited use season, permits will be available for advance purchase only, on-line, first come, first served, until the daily limit is reached.