Hiking Mt. St. Helens
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Mount St. Helens National Monument Hiking |
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There are
many trails on the east side of Mount St. Helens, leading hikers into
the heart of the blast area. They provide outstanding views of the new
lava dome. The south side of Mount St. Helens provides outstanding
opportunities to discover the ancient lava flows and recent mudflows
that scoured down the slopes of Mount St. Helens. Trails on the west
side of Mount St. Helens are few but what is lacking in number is made
up with unparalleled views of this volcanic landscape. Trails,
campgrounds, and old growth forests can all be found just north of the
National Volcanic Monument in the Randle Ranger District. These areas
relatively unaffected by the volcano offer a sharp contrast to the blast
area just a few miles to the south. And there are a number of trails
which skirt the perimeter of the Mount St. Helens Volcano. A climbing
permit is required for these trails. To ensure a quality hiking
experience and your safety, wear sturdy shoes, bring sunscreen, and
carry one quart or more of water per person. |
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Mount St. Helens Trail Hiking Guide |
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Trail Difficulty Definitions: Easiest: Level to gently rolling grades less than 20%. Trail treads 18-24" wide. Easy hiking, suitable for children or individuals seeking a leisure walk. More Difficult: Moderate grades up to 30%. Trails treads 12-18" wide, depending upon level of use. Vigorous hiking for individuals of normal physical condition. Most Difficult
Steep grades, narrow tread widths, low levels of maintenance. May
require stepping over logs or traversing steep cliffs or stream fords.
Trails may be difficult to locate or follow. Suitable for experienced
hikers in good physical condition. Expect a challenging experience. |
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Choose A Hiking Region To Explore:
Hiking to the East of Mt. St. Helens *Note these links opens a new browser, to return to Blue Heron Inn just close the browser window. |