Mt. St. Helens, Swift Creek-Worm Flows

Activity Notes

This climb is an excellent introduction to mountaineering straight outta BCEP.  The route will take us thru Worm Flows past the Chocolate Falls and up onto Monitor Ridge.  This is a 1 day out-and-back climb.  While this climb should take approx. 10hrs to complete, the expectation is we may be slower since there will be novice climbers on the team.  So please be patient if the climb is on the slower side.  

You will need crampons, helmet, & an ice axe.  An ice axe leash is required.  A harness might be ideal for leashing your ice axe to yourself, but it is not required since there is no expectation of rappelling/prussiking.  I recommend snowshoes for later in the day when the sun begins softening the snow.  You will need sunglasses and sunscreen.  There is no water on this route, so you will need to pack in all the water you need for the day.  I would suggest 3 - 4 liters.  Bring a lunch.  Other than the above gear, water, food, and your clothing layers, your pack should be relatively light ~25lbs max.  Be prepared for glissading later in the day if the conditions allow for it.  When we get to the summit, stay back from the edge within 30ft.

Drivers will need to purchase a Washington State Sno-Park Permit:  https://parks.wa.gov/passes-permits/permits/sno-park-permits

Please add your to my carpooling sheet, even if you are driving separately so I can account for everyone: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1_XbDR-5Rni42fupxs21c2Plmq0bwPFh7XhU2C7xE5U4/edit#gid=1039493708

Keep an eye on the current climbing conditions: https://www.mshinstitute.org/explore/climbing-permits/current-conditions.html

Keep an eye on the weather: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-122.19570926204321&lat=46.18030584567751

Each climber accepted will be responsible for reimbursing me directly for your climbing permit ($20ea).  I can take cash or Zelle/Venmo/Paypal.