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Mount Saint Helens: Worm Flows and Swift Glacier

Starting Elevation: 2700 ft. | High Point: 8365 ft. | Time: 7-9 hours | Ski Difficulty: Difficult | Technical Skills: Low

Ski Touring Difficult

Distance
17 km
Ascent
1.8 km
Descent
1.8 km
Duration
1 day +
Low Point
820 m
High Point
2.5 km
Gradient
32˚
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Mount Saint Helens: Worm Flows and Swift Glacier Map

This is a popular ski touring route which is generally considered to be difficult. It's remote, it features medium exposure (e2) and is typically done between January and May. From a low point of 820 m to the maximum altitude of 2.5 km, the route covers 17 km, 1830 vertical metres of ascent and 1830 vertical metres of descent. It's graded 3.1 and Labande grade 4. You'll need skins, ice axe and crampons to complete it safely.

Description

Ideal day trip for wide variety of skiing terrain and an easily approachable trailhead.

Difficulty

Difficult

Serious gradient of 30-38 degrees where a real risk of slipping exists.

Medium Exposure (E2)

2 out of 4

As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between January and May

Features

  • Alpine
  • Tree Skiing
  • Single Descent
  • Ski Mountaineering

Equipment required

  • Skins
  • Ice axe
  • Crampons

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area