Climber’s Bivouac and the Monitor Ridge pathway are currently accessible as of 2PM on July 3rd.
The trail on Ridge Monitor of West/below is well defined, but keep an eye out for markers (such as cairns and poles). Currently, spikes and an ice ax are not necessary for the regular climbing route. The water melt above the tree line is becoming scarce, and the route is completely free of snow.
Permits for climbing are necessary throughout the year. Permits must be purchased in advance through recreation.Gov, from November 30th to April 1st. For more information, please visit our Visitor page. At the trailhead, permits can be self-issued and are unlimited and free from March 31st to December 1st.
SUMMER ROUTE
Starting Point: Climber’s Bivouac.
Trails beyond the treeline can be more exposed, with the marked route melting out and gullies becoming visible. It is important to follow the route and begin the ascent above the treeline. However, conditions can be challenging with frequent whiteouts, fog, precipitation, and strong winds, leading to reduced visibility. It is highly recommended to have a backup compass and paper map, as well as preloading offline maps of the “Monitor Ridge” route into your device.
Prediction: The typical summer days are sunny, clear, and sweltering, but the circumstances are changeable. Refer to the prediction links provided below.
In the early summer, it can be beneficial to have a water filter to replenish your water supply along the route. It is crucial to be prepared in order to prevent heat-related injuries such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and muscle cramps. It is essential to have electrolyte replacement and water to prevent these potentially fatal conditions. Do not underestimate the effects of sun exposure on the body: both electrolytes and water are necessary.
Always carry a source of light, such as a headlamp. To prevent injury and ensure proper eye protection, it is necessary to wear glacier glasses, ski masks, and similar items. For ascents, it may be beneficial to use snowshoes with traction components. Basic practical self-arrest technique should be combined with ice axes, which are required. Crampons and an ice ax are ideal for navigating icy slopes, especially above 6,000 feet (1839m). Be prepared for ice and wet conditions, high cross winds, precipitation, and freezing temperatures by having your “10 essentials” gear.
Leave No Trace: Climbers must use blue bags to remove all human or pet waste, including toilet paper.
Make proper preparations. Kindly remember to bring your own toilet tissue, cleansing agent, water, or hand sanitizer. The availability of restroom facilities may be restricted, so it is advisable to bring your own toilet paper, soap, water, or hand sanitizer, although there is no running water. There are opportunities for dispersed camping and pit toilets at the trailheads. Camping: At the trailheads, there are options for dispersed camping and pit toilets, but there is no running water, and the availability of restroom facilities may be limited, so make sure to bring your own toilet paper, soap, water, or hand sanitizer.
Photos provided by Andy Goodwin.
Additional Forecast & Condition Resources
Visit the website of Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, for further details.
The FIRE Incident Information System has the most up-to-date information on all wild or prescribed fires in the Northwest or around the country, visit the AirNow and Air Quality Monitoring Network’s Washington Smoke Information Center for the latest forecast and air quality coordination.
Weather forecasts for Marble Mountain SnoPark at two different altitudes, specifically 2,700ft and 6,200ft, can be found on Weather.Gov. Additionally, Mountain-Forecast.Com offers forecasts for three distinct elevations: the summit at 8,328ft, the mid-slope at 6,500ft, and just above the trailhead at 3,200ft.
AVALANCHE: Visit the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center for the latest avalanche forecast information during the winter season.
You can find the most up-to-date snow pack measurements on the southern region of Mount St. Helens at the SNOTEL sites known as June Lake (3,400ft) and Swift Creek (4,400ft). Make sure to visit SNOWPACK for more information.
Advanced mountaineering education is strongly encouraged in winter. However, this information may not provide all the necessary information for planning backcountry travel. This information can be used for planning and preparation, but backcountry travel requires safe and advanced knowledge. The US Forest Service provides this report in conjunction with recreational and personal purposes only.
Unless stated otherwise, this report becomes invalid after 24 hours from the time it was posted. There will always be differences in local conditions, and this report provides an overview of the prevailing circumstances. However, it is important to note that the information provided here may not be completely accurate or reliable, and the user understands that it is impossible to accurately anticipate natural occurrences in every case.