A hike to the summit of this active volcano is unlike any other peak hike that you're ever likely to undertake! On the flanks of Mount St. Helens, "you get the opportunity to see recent geologic history firsthand," according to Hannah Singleton on WildlandTrekking.com. "This dynamic landscape is in flux: the lava dome atop Mount St. Helens has grown as the years pass" and "a new glacier has since wrapped around the rocky crater rim and continues to advance," she continues. Since this landscape is ever-changing, it's not a bad idea to plan your hike sooner rather than later!

Even though the climb to the rim of the volcanic crater is non-technical, that doesn't make it easy! This hike is steep and arduous, gaining over 4,800 vertical feet in a short 4-mile climb to the rim.

The first two miles wind through the forest on a well-graded trail, but once you break out of the trees, the climb gets much more difficult.

"The next 2500 vertical feet is through boulder fields – and not any ordinary boulder fields," according to WTA.org. "These rocks are dusted with an ash pumice that can shred the skin in a fall," they warn. "You'd be wise to bring garden gloves for this section!"

The final thousand-foot climb to the rim slowly ascends a field of loose, sliding ash and small rocks. With the soil sliding backward with every step, each foot of upward progress is hard-won! Most sources recommend gaiters to keep dirt out of your boots, and trekking poles for stability and to aid with your upward power.

Once on the rim of the crater, soak in the stupendous views as you observe volcanic history in the making. Steam rises from vents, lava flows nearby, and lava domes expand slowly. And around it all, you can see the incredible destruction from the infamous 1980 eruption.

Remain cautious of snow cornices along the rim, which can crumble without warning. Once you've had your fill of the views of the cauldron, turn around and return the way you came.

Sources: https://www.wildlandtrekking.com/blog/top-five-summit-hikes-in-washington/ https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/mount-st-helens-monitor-ridge https://www.summitpost.org/monitor-ridge/155892 https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/volcanoes/sthelens/sthelenshazard74.html