Climbing
For Novice and Experienced Mountaineers
Mount St. Helens is a popular climb for both beginning and experienced mountaineers. Although people are able to climb Mount St. Helens year-round, late spring through early fall is the most popular season.
Climbers must have a permit. It is recommended that reservations be made well in advance. Reservations can be made online through the
Mount St. Helens Institute.
From April 1 through May 14, a permit is required. Cost is $22 per person.
From May 15 through October 31, a permit is required. Cost is $22 per person. Only 100 permits are issued per day.
From November 1 through March 31, a permit is required but there is no charge.
Climbers Bivouac can be accessed by taking State Route 503 from Interstate 5 at Woodland.
Most climbers use the Monitor Ridge route from Climbers Bivouac. This route gains 4,500 feet in five miles to the crater rim at 8,365 feet elevation. Although strenuous, this non-technical climb is suitable for people in good physical condition who are comfortable scrambling over steep, rugged terrain. Most climbers complete the round trip in seven to twelve hours.