Climbing
How to Obtain a Permit
ALL CLIMBERS MUST HAVE A PERMIT
A permit is required to climb above 4,800 feet on Mount St. Helens. Begun in 1987, the permit system helps protect the volcano and its organisms from harm, reduces crowding, and helps inform climbers regarding hazards, Leave No Trace principles, and safety. Permits for 2010 will be available February 1, 2010 at 9 a.m. Pacific Standard Time. Each climber must display a hangtag permit on his or her clothes. Permits are valid for 24 hours starting at midnight of the climb date. Groups are limited to 12 climbers. (Carried children do not need a permit.)
There are two kinds of permits: off-season (which are free) and peak-season (which cost $22). For off-season permits (November 1 through March 31), climbers must stop at the Lone Fir Resort on SR 503 in Cougar, WA to obtain their permit in person. For peak-season permits (April 1 through October 31) climbers must purchase a permit in advance from this website. Permits for 2010 are available starting February 1. Permits cannot be exchanged or refunded. All sales are final. Read about how to buy your permit.
From May 15 through October 31, the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument limits permits to 100 per day to protect the volcano from over-use. Permits are given on a first-come, first-served basis. Climbers must purchase peak-season permits at least 24 hours in advance of their climb date.
Climbers must read and sign their permits and abide by permit rules. Group leaders register for their entire group.
Dogs are allowed but not recommended. Ash and pumice can be harmful to a dog’s pads. There is no shade or water. If your dog gets into trouble, there is no rescue system.
| SEASON | PERMIT COST | LIMIT |
|---|---|---|
| April 1 through May 14 | $22 | none |
| May 15 through October 31 | $22 | 100 climbers per day |
| November 1 through March 31 | none | none |
