Summit Climbs

Questions? Email explore@mshinstitute.org or call (360) 207-1675

Date sold out?  Join our waitlist here!

“Everything from start to finish of the trip was fantastic! The guides were really great - welcoming, encouraging and knowledgeable. They respected each person's abilities and encouraged us to push our comfort levels to try something new. I learned so much more about the mountain and acquired some basic mountaineering skills. ~Linda, July 2023 “A terrific experience for a first climb. I learned a lot from the guides, and feel I have new skills to build on for future climbs. It was a very taxing day but the positive attitude and support from the guides and volunteer were fantastic." ~J., July 2023 “BLOODY FANTASTIC. I knew it was going to be challenging and I was quite nervous but the guides and volunteers made the whole experience super fun. I enjoyed the day more than I anticipated I was going to." Seattle, 2024

Description

Embark on a remarkable single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with our professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards.  These hikes are carefully designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic active Cascade volcanoes. Our knowledgeable and experienced guide teams will enrich your experience with insights into the area's natural and cultural history as well as expert technical advice on outdoor equipment, attire and techniques.  


  • Minimum Age: 10. If your climber is younger, contact explore@mshinstitute.org or (360) 207-1675 to discuss.
  • Maximum Group Size: 10
  • Permits: Fee includes a climbing permit.
  • Meeting Location:  Based on season road closures, but typically:
  • Duration: 6:00 AM ~ 6:00 PM
  • Classic Summit Climb Cost: $288 / person. 
  • Summit with a Geologist: $298 / person.

 

 

Winter Route (June - early July)

Summer Route (July - Sept)

Distance

9.6 miles (15.4 km)  round-trip

8.5 miles (13.6 km) round-trip

Elevation Gain

5,500 ft (1,676 m)

4,500 ft (1,371 m)

Location

Marble Mountain Sno-Park

Climber's Bivouac Trailhead

 

We strongly recommend that you conduct training hikes or routines before you climb Mount St. Helens. Your fitness will be the best indicator of your enjoyment of the experience and your success on the climb. See our suggested training hikes.

Additional Information

Route Descriptions
Program Policies
Suggested Packing List
Training Hikes
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Mount St. Helens Institute operates under a special use permit from the US Forest Service and is honored to work on the Traditional Cultural Property, ancestral and present-day lands of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. Mount St. Helens Institute is an equal opportunity provider.