Our group of seven had purchased climbing permits a while back to hike/scramble Mt St Helens. We had to forgo any July-4 (over)celebrations, but we all agreed it was well worth it in the end!
There was no snow on the summer route. Crampons not needed. Microspikes not needed. If you wished to ascend the snowfield climber's right of the summer route, then microspikes/ice axe were a good idea.
Our group of 7 headed off bright and early from Climber's Bivouac TH:
First stop at the tree line:
Up, up, up - follow those poles!
The clouds had cleared - we were going to get a great view at the summit!
A view to the south:
Note the lack of snow on the last section before the top:
At the crater rim:
Must go over to the true summit - that way! The wind was blowing about 25-30mph at the rim:
Some crater shots on the way over to the summit - I think I see Karl over there??? Maybe a bit to the left?
Note to self - don't trip:
Adams still had its July 4th party hat on - maybe it was sleeping in for the day:
We had a fantastic time glissading down (frozen butts were worth it!):
Further down:
It seems marmot ( Edit: actually chipmunk
) modelling had made its way to the south side of St Helens - note the little guy on the rock plying his trade:
Our fearless leader Barbara returned victorious!
It was a fun, fantastic day!
It's all good. Sounds like a great loop payslee!
