Climbing Overview
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An Active Volcano, An Active Climbing Season
The climbing program on Mount St. Helens was closed in October, 2004, because the mountain changed dramatically from a slumbering giant to an actively growing, dynamic volcano.
As volcanic activity quieted and stabilized, the climbing program was re-established in 2006. The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument and the Mount St. Helens Institute are partnering to emphasize the tremendous and inspiring learning opportunity that a climb on a still active volcano provides. The mountain offers rich experiences for scientists, resource managers, and visitors during this era of active growth.
Reflecting the dramatic changes on the volcano, the newly re-opened climbing program is also viewed and shaped in new ways. Attention to safety issues on this continuously erupting volcano demands thoughtful preparation and encourages an emphasis on education about the landscape and natural processes that are shaping it.
Incredible opportunities to learn and experience are the focus of the newly opened climbing program that allows access above 4,800 feet, up to the crater rim. The seasonal limit on the number of climber permits, 100 per day, reflects a continued emphasis on thoughtful stewardship on the mountain.
Mounument Climbing Pages
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument has created a series of detailed climbing web pages. Make sure you visit the Monument web site and are familiar with what it contains.
Ready to climb Mount St. Helens?
The following page describes in detail the new permit system, the fee structure and how the registration system actually works.
