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Crater Glacier Overlook Hike
Join MSHI on unforgettable hike to the mouth of crater of Mount St. Helens!
This was such a spectacular hike! The environment is so raw and unique and the activity in the crater was mesmerizing. The guides were knowledgeable, friendly and supportive and makes me wish there on all my hikes!
~Martina, 2023
Hike to the edge of the crater during this unforgettable trip!
Immerse yourself in a truly unique and awe-inspiring journey into the breach of the Mount St. Helens crater, 45 years into its geological and ecological change. This distinctive adventure brings you into the crater of the volcano, following washes, ridges and mountain goat paths to a special viewpoint overlooking the leading edge of Crater Glacier. This trek is specially permitted through MSHI provides a unique vantage point of one of the world's youngest and fastest-growing glaciers, not even known to the public until 2000. While you enjoy a lunch break, listen to the glacier moving and growing as it advances across this landscape in front of you. As you hike under the curious gaze of resident mountain goats, your guides will provide expert interpretation of the natural and historical wonders of this volcanic landscape. This is an MSHI Staff favorite!
NEW for 2025! We have added 3 Glacier Overlook Hikes with a Geologist!
- Distance: 5 - 7 miles (8 - 11 km) round-trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,500 - 1,700 feet (457 - 518m)
- Duration: 9:00 AM ~ 3:00 PM
- Meeting Location: Windy Ridge Viewpoint
- Minimum Age: 10. If your hiker is younger, contact explore@mshinstitute.org or (360) 207-1675 to discuss.
- Maximum Group Size: 10
- Cost: $230 / person
- Cost for Geologist hike: $275 / person
If your adventure date is sold out, join our waitlist! In 2024, 48% of people our waitlist were offered a spot!
Mount St. Helens Institute operates under a special use permit from the US Forest Service and is honored to work on the Traditional Cultural Property, ancestral and present-day lands of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. Mount St. Helens Institute is an equal opportunity provider.
