How to Hike Mount St. Helens
Mount St. Helens is an active volcano in Washington, United States. Hiking and climbing are popular activities on the mountain for thrill seekers of all levels. A few simple steps can help you hike Mount St. Helens and live to tell about it.
Instructions
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Obtain a climbing permit if you plan to hike over 4,800 feet. You must read and sign the permit before beginning your hike and display the permit during the climb. Permits are free from November to March.
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Register before you hike Mount St. Helens. Each hiker must register in order to ensure safety and an accurate count of people on the mountain at any given time. Registration is centrally located outside Jack's Restaurant and Store.
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Learn about volcano hazards before you hike. Because Mount St. Helens is an active volcano, you might run into dangerous situations like ashfall, sliding rocks and volcanic gases. By understanding the potential hazards you're more likely to navigate the mountain responsibly and safely.
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Carry essentials to help navigate and keep you safe. The Mount St. Helens website lists ten essential hiking items including a hard hat, goggles, a compass and a first aid kit, just to name a few.
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Keep an eye on the weather because it's dangerous to get caught on the mountain in bad weather. The Mount St. Helens website offers weather forecasts and winter avalanche information for interested hikers.
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