Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Safety Information

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Volcanic Hazards

Mount St. Helens is one of the most active volcanoes in the Cascade Range. Since September 2004, the mountain has shown an increase in volcanic activity. It is important for all visitors to the mountain to understand that there are inherent risks associated with being in close proximity to a force of nature as powerful and unpredictable as a volcano. Despite being one of the most closely monitored volcanoes in the world, Mount St. Helens remains impossible to fully predict.

• Ashfall. Explosions in the crater can produce plumes of volcanic ash that rise above the crater and drift downwind. Ash is uncomfortable to breathe and can irritate the eyes and impair visibility.
• Ballistics are rocks that are thrown from explosions in the crater. Generally these remain in the crater, but occasionally may be flung with enough force to land outside the crater rim. Very rarely, these rock fragments are large enough to cause injury or death.
• Volcanic gases. A faint sulfurous odor is normal when in close proximity to the crater of the volcano. Under rare circumstances climbers may experience irritation to their nose, mouth, and lungs.
• Debris flows. Rain storms and snowmelt can cause the loosely packed volcanic soil of the mountain to come loose and flow in gullies and stream channels on the volcano.

If You Encounter Volcanic Hazards

• If you encounter ashfall or ballistics, seek shelter quickly and try to protect your head, airway, and eyes
• Descend as rapidly as is safe to well below the crater rim. Seek shelter behind boulders, slope breaks, or vegetation. Keep your head covered with a hardhat
• Cover your nose and mouth with a dustmask
• If you are without the recommended safety equipment, improvise. A backpack can cover your head, and a cloth protect your face. Ballistic and ashfall events tend to last less than 30 minutes, so remain calm and protected, and wait until it is safe before proceeding.

The Mount St. Helens Ten Essentials

Please be mindful that Mount St. Helens is an active volcano, and that rock fall, volcanic ballistics, and ash emissions remain a hazard that must be respected. All hikers should pack along these essentials, while also realizing that the most essential thing for any outdoor activity is respect for the elements and sound judgment.

• Climbing Helment or Hard Hat will protect your head in case of volcanic ballistics or rock fall.
• Dust Mask (N95 type) will cover your mouth and nose in the case of ashfall or blowing dust. Dustmasks should be available from any hardware store
• Goggle or sunglasses with side shields, sunscreen. The sun reflects on both snow and ash. Contact lenses are to be avoided, as blowing ash and dust can be a problem. Don't forget a hat.
• Climbing boots are a must. Many hikers use gaiters to keep out snow and ash
• Map, compass, route markers. Know where you are. Be sure to inform someone at home of your hiking plans
• First Aid Kit. You might need to come to your own rescue, or help another injured person.
• Knife. A knife is handy for all sorts of purposes. Many hikers use plier multitools.
• Extra food and water is necessary. Bring at least two quarts of water per person. Bring lots of food to snack on too.
• Extra clothing. The weather on the mountain can change very quickly, and a beautiful sunny morning could quickly become cold, wet, rainy, and foggy. Layer your clothing to provide for the greatest versatility as the weather shifts or you adjust your level of exertion.
• Emergency Shelter or emergency blanket. Some sort of protection from the elements not only provides peace of mind, but could also save your life if your dayhike turns into a longer stay.
• Flashlight, extra batteries, and bulb. This is a must for hiking during the months when daylight is limited, but is a backup necessity year round. LED flashlights have come a long way and provide great illumination and exceptional battery life. Many hikers prefer headlamps over conventional flashlights

Cellphones are not a reliable option on the mountain!

Mount St. Helens is located in a remote part of Washington State. There are no cellphone towers within the monument or the Gifford Pinchot National Forest surrounding the monument. Cellphone reception is spotty at best should never be assumed to work in case of emergency.

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
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