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INTO THE CRATER HIKES

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Questions? Email explore@mshinstitute.org or call (360) 207-1675

“Fantastic! The geologist made it immersive, fun, and so much more rich of an experience. We were well cared for in the camp.” ~Edward “Excellent experience. Camp site and food was great. Hike was once in a lifetime.” ~Karen “It was amazing. The guides were great and kind, and they really took care of us the entire trip.” ~Kelly

Ready for a unique and powerful adventure into the crater of an active volcano? With astounding views of Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, and Spirit Lake, this is a true Pacific Northwest bucket-list experience. Hike alongside a knowledgeable geologist past domes and canyons, pumice fields and lava beds, waterfalls and wildflowers, to the terminus of one of the fastest-growing glaciers in the world. The trip begins Friday at our Mount St. Helens Ridge Camp where you can expect a delicious dinner catered to your needs from our kitchen al fresco, followed by a fireside lecture by the geologist. After Saturday’s hike, guests stay for another night’s rest in the shadow of the volcano.

All overnight guided adventure program participants are required to 1) show proof of their COVID-19 vaccination at check-in or 2) quarantine for 72 hours prior to arrival and show proof of a negative COVID-19 test administered no more than 72 hours prior to the program start date. See Program Policies for additional details. 

Distance:  Approximately 10 miles (16 km) round-trip
Elevation Gain: 2000 ft - 2500 ft (610 m - 760 m)
Duration: Approximately 10-12 hours
Meeting Location: Cascade Peaks Interpretive Center
Minimum Age: 12+ (minors must be accompanied by an adult)
Maximum Group Size: 10
Cost: $884 / person

What's Included:

  • Guided hike into the crater
  • All meals and beverages from Friday night to Sunday morning
  • Space to pitch a personal tent or sleep in your car or camper vehicle (please no generators)
  • Access to a composting toilet (with a great view of Mount Rainier!)
  • An unforgettable experience!

Additional Information

Program Policies
Suggested Packing List
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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.