Due to a lapse in federal funding, this USDA website will not be actively updated. Once funding has been reestablished, online operations will continue. On-going operational updates will be posted here (https://www.fs.fed.us/shutdown) as we are able to provide them.
Climbers Bivouac has toilets but no water. Tent pads are available for camping on a first come, first serve basis.
Parking at Climbers Bivouac will be limited due to popularity and number of spaces. Motorhomes and travel trailers please park at Marble Mountain Sno Park. Overflow parking is located at Marble Mountain Sno Park, but be advised this parking area access the Worm Flows winter climbing route. Please adjust accordingly and plan for flexibility on your trip.
At a Glance
Current Conditions:
Forest Road 81 gated for the season at Cougar Sno-Park on the east and just past Kalama Horse Camp on the west.
Fees
$5/vehicle/day
Permit Info:
A Climbing Permit is required year round, for all persons travelling above 4,800 ft. on the slopes of Mount St. Helens. From Nov. 1 to March 31, get your permit at either Marble Mountain Sno-Park kiosk or, if open, Climber's Bivouac. Climbing permits for climbing April 1 to Oct. 31 go on sale on-line at www.mshinstitute.org on Wed., Feb 1 at 9:00 am, Pacific Time.
From Cougar, WA take Lewis River Road/Forest Road 90 east for 6.4 miles then go left on Forest Road 83. Follow Forest Road 83 for 3 miles then stay left onto Forest Road 81 and go about a mile to Forest Spur Road 830. Go right at Forest Road 830 and drive about .4 miles to the trailhead.
It is important for climbers of any Cascade summit to be aware of a few things:
Climbing parties should use good judgment and take special care of weaker members and novice climbers (Always think Safety is Item Number One)
Be prepared for treacherous slopes (steep, slick, with dangerous runouts), especially on descent, going from the basin at timberline to the crest of Monitor Ridge
Before climbing, gain knowledge of competent use of an ice axe or ski poles on all snow slopes, and the ability to self-arrest a fall under any conditions
Be aware of receding snow on current glissade paths higher on the Mountain, exposing rock hazards
Stay well back from cornices that still remain along the summit rim
Prepare for warming temperatures demanding that climbers carry three liters of water at a minimum
Know and use proper footwear, clothing, sun protection and sunglasses!
SHOW
