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Area Status: Unreachable
Hikers may explore trails that lead to clear lakes, steep ridges and flowered mountain slopes of the Mount Margaret Backcountry. Visitors to this rugged and spectacular portion of the Monument can experience effects of the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. The lateral blast, a hot stone filled wind, shattered trees and swirled around peaks and basins as it toppled thousands of acres of pristine forest.
Trails in the Mount Margaret Backcountry have narrow tread, are steep in places and can climb over 2,000 feet in elevation. Some trails are very challenging. The Whittier Trail #214, in particular, is very narrow and crosses steep cliffs, it is not suitable for hikers that are uncomfortable with heights. Trail is rough and recommenced for experienced hikers only.
Eight backcountry camps can accommodate tent campers. Portions of trails are often covered by snow until midsummer. Be prepared to cross snow slopes if you plan an early season visit.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: |
Forest Road 99 gated for the winter at Wakepish Sno-Park. 99 Road usually opens toward the end of June, depending on winter damage. To overnight camp, you must have a Mount Margaret Backcountry Permit. Permits are on sale at recreation.gov. Mount Margaret Backcountry Conditions Report. |
| Reservations: |
Permit reservations may be made online at Recreation.gov or by calling 1- (877) 444 6777, or Hearing impaired: 1- (877) TDD 6777. Permits go on sale March 19, 2017. |
| Permit Info: |
A Mount Margaret Backcountry Permit is required for overnight camping in the Mount Margaret Backcounty.
- Reservations may be made online at Recreation.gov or by phone 1-(877)-444-6777 or Hearing impaired: 1-877-TDD-6777.
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| Usage: |
Medium |
| Best Season: |
Summer |
| Busiest Season: |
Summer |
| Restrictions: |
- To protect natural features, pets and pack stock are prohibited in the Mount Margaret Backcountry.
- Fires are not allowed, plan to use a camp stove for cooking.
- Camping is limited to designated campgrounds only.
- Maximum group size for camping is four people.
- Dispersed Camping is authorized without a permit North of the Green River only.
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| Closest Towns: |
Randle, WA - Toutle, WA |
| Water: |
Treat all non-potable water before consuming. |
| Passes: |
Many trailheads that access Mount Margaret Backcountry require a valid Recreation Pass. |
| Operated By: |
Forest Service |
| Information Center: |
Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument Headquarters & Visitor Centers |
General Information
General Notes: Attached you will find camp maps with current available water sources. Please note, water availablity may change through out the summer at Ridge Camp and camps located along the Boudary Trail.
Ridge Camp, Snow Camp, Shovel Camp, Obsurity Camp, Bear Camp, Dome Camp and Margaret Camp.
Directions: Access Points:
Eastside access:
Westside access:
Parking:
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