Loowit #216- Butte Camp to Ptarmigan Trail
This 2.5 mile section of the Loowit Trail #216 begins at Butte Camp Trail #238A junction with the Loowit Trail and runs east to end at the Ptarmigan Trail #216A junction.
This section of the Loowit trail provides an invigorating and challenging hike across the rough terrain typical of a young volcano. The trail climbs over lava flows reminiscent of rock gardens thick with heather and delicate mosses. Here you can enjoy excellent views as you travel along the southern slope of Mount St. Helens. Pass through the tall spires of scattered subalpine firs and mountain meadows speckled with wildflowers. See the backbone of Monitor Ridge looming larger and larger on the horizon as you near the junction of Ptarmigan Trail #216A.
This trail receives minimal maintenance and gains little elevation as it follows the timberline of Mount St. Helens. Steep ascents and descents can be expected over massive lava flows. The route is marked by wooden posts over sections with minimal trail tread.
At a Glance
Current Conditions: | 06/12/2024: The trail has patchy snow in varying amounts, some of it deep. Carry microspikes with you as a precaution. There is a decent amount of balance beaming between tree wells and frequent navigation checks are stronly recommended. No reports of post holing issues at this time. Please use extreme caution as there are many downed signs and posts. Use trekking poles to cross any streams due to the amount of water flowing. South Fork Toutle River may be possible with some rock hopping, but a river between Step Creek and Loowit Creek may be significantly deeper, requiring boots to be removed. Contact Mount St. Helens for more information at 360-449-7800. |
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Fees: | No fee or pass required for trail use, however a $5/vehicle/day or a valid Recreation Pass required at some access points including Ape Canyon Trailhead, Climber's Bivouac Trailhead and Windy Ridge Interpretive Site. See Mount St. Helens Map for fee and payment sites. |
Usage: | Light-Medium |
Best Season: | Summer and Fall |
Busiest Season: | Summer |
Restrictions: |
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Closest Towns: | Cougar, WA |
Restroom: | No |
Operated By: | Forest Service |
Information Center: |
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General Information
Directions:Red Rock Pass Trailhead (Forest Road 81) - accesses Toutle Trail #238 which leads to Butte Camp Trail #238A.
Climbers Bivoac Trailhead - accesses Ptarmigan Trail #216A. (This trailhead is not recommended as it is very busy in the summer.)
Activities
Mountain Biking
Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
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Backpacking
Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
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