arrow down
Mt. Saint Helens is a popular climb for both beginning and experienced mountaineers. The crater rim is at 8,365-feet elevation so it offers an exciting and challenging climb for all. Although strenuous, this not-technical climb is suitable for people in good physical condition who are comfortable scrambling on steep, rugged terrain. It can be summited year-round, but we will make our attempt on May 5-6, one of the most popular seasons to experience the majesty of the mountain.
Mount St. Helens Summit Trip Information
DEPARTS: May 5, 2019 at 8:00 am from the Nor'Wester
RETURNS: May 6, 2019 at approximately 11 pm
COST: $134 per person
**Everett Patrons: Please call 425-304-3575 for transportation information**
Register with myFFR #4019060 by March 1 or call 425-304-3575.
To register for Mt. Saint Helens, you must have completed an Avalanche Awareness Class and an Ice Axe Skills Workshop prior to registering for the climb. If you have not completed the January or February sessions, you must be registered and committed to the March sessions in order to register for St. Helens.
Avalanche Awareness Workshops
Thursdays, Jan. 24, Feb. 21, & March 7
6-8 pm
Convergence Zone
$6, ages 10 and up
Learn about winter back-country dangers, avalanche avoidance techniques, use of safety equipment, proper winter wear, and how to use an avalanche transceiver. This class may be taken alone, or as a prerequisite for a mountaineering trip, or ice axe arrest class. This is an informational class and not a certification class. Register two days prior.
**Everett Patrons: Shuttle leaves at 4:15pm from Smokey Point**
Ice Axe Skills Workshop
Saturdays, Jan. 26, Feb. 23, & March 9
7 am-7 pm
$34, ages 14 and up (minors must have a parent/guardian present)
In preparation for our spring and summer summit trips, two classes are required: Avalanche Awareness Class and Ice Axe Skills. Ice Axe skills are used in a mountaineering environment to allow you to travel safely to your destination. Should you slip or fall, you will learn how to arrest (stop) yourself and come to a safe and efficient stop without the aid of ropes or other devices. Register two days prior.
**Everett Patrons: Shuttle will depart from Smokey Point**
WAIVERS/PREREQUISITES: You must have completed Avalanche Awareness Clinic and Ice Axe Arrest Class PRIOR to registering for this class. Hold Harmless & Medical Screening forms will need to be completed prior to trip departure as well.
DESCRIPTION: Mount Saint Helens is a popular climb for both beginning and experienced mountaineers. The crater rim is at 8.365 feet elevation so it offers an exciting and challenging climb for all. Although strenuous, this not-technical climb is suitable for people in good physical condition who are comfortable scrambling on steep, rugged terrain. It can be summited year-round but we will make our attempt in May, one of the most popular seasons to experience the majesty of the mountain. On the first day, when we arrive we will pitch our tents, start a fire and enjoy dinner as we get to know our fellow climbers while we relax and rest in preparation for the big climb to reach the summit on the next day. After breakfast on the second morning, we'll make our attempt on the summit and then enjoy lunch on the mountain. Most climbers will be back to the campsite mid to late afternoon. After the summit, we will catch dinner in Woodland WA before we start our drive back for a late evening return. A mandatory pre-trip meeting will be held at the NASWI Convergence Zone classroom where we will review the details of the climb and gear to bring. Avalanche Awareness and Ice Axe Arrest are Prerequisites for this trip.
PROVIDED: Experienced guide/instructor, round trip transportation and all Mountaineering/Camping Equipment needed for class as well as three meals
WHAT TO BRING: Don't forget the camera! Sunglasses, sunscreen, waterproof gloves, hat, etc. To be better prepared, please pick up a mountaineering trip checklist from the Community Recreation Office.
WHAT TO WEAR: Lightweight ski pants, rain pants with long underwear, snowboarding pants lined with a little fleece layer or regular trekking pants will work well. The spring snow on the mountain can be quite wet, so you'll want something water resistant. Layer your upper body with a quick-dry piece close to your body then a fleece jacket that can be unzipped for ventilation. You want to be a little cold when you start because you will warm up quickly. You'll want warm, waterproof boots as well. Do NOT wear cotton or jeans.
