Climbing Mount Saint Helens

At 8,328 feet high (as measured by USGS in 2009), Mount St. Helens offers climbers a breathtaking view from the crater rim. Although it is not a technical climb, it is strenuous and hazardous due to ice, large boulders, loose pumice, fast-changing weather and volcanism. Climbers should be in very good physical condition, well equipped, informed about volcanic hazards, and have plenty of water and food.

The Mount St. Helens Institute has partnered with the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument to help protect the volcano’s fragile features and to ensure climbers have a safe, low-impact experience on the volcano.

Before climbing Mount St. Helens, please read climbing rules, road and trail conditions, and other important information from the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.

If you are planning on climbing Mt St Helens in 2018 you will need to buy your tickets online. Don’t wait as permits sell out fast for weekends. Once you purchase your permits book your room at Lone Fir Resort as we fill up quickly for the summer

For information about the current weather on Mount Saint Helens visit: Mountain Forecast

For information about the status of Climber’s Bivouac, Marble Mountain, or any of the Forest roads please visit the website:

Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Lone Fir Resort is available to answer any climbing questions you might have, from simple directions to what gear you might need.

You can get your parking pass for the Climber’s Bivouac at Lone Fir Resort. Don’t risk it: many times the self pay stations are out of supplies.

Forgot to print your permit? Swing by Lone Fir Resort and we can print it for you for just a $1. You will need to have your confirmation email, as we do not have access to the permit system.

Lone Fir Resort has many items you will need for your climb like:

Ice Axes, Snow Shoes, Poles all available for rent by the day. Our gift shop has the basics like extra socks, glove hand warmers and a great selection of trail maps. We have crampons of various sizes for sale as well in case you forgot a pair! We also have a Go-Pro Camera for rent. Please call for details on camera rental.

Bring your permit by our gift shop and get $2 off t-shirts.