hi-- newbie question-- about mt st. helens-

[jackcrab]

hi, i've never climbed a mountain before and was hoping to climb mt st helens in the upcoming weeks. how basic of a climb is it? i'll bring the ten essentials regardless-- but i was told there are pillars or something you can just follow to the top. yes, i'll bring a compass and map just in case-- but is it pretty much a straight shot right to the top? pretty straight forward trail? i am in really good physical condition so that is not an issue.

 

thanks a lot for the help and imput. im not from around here and dont know much about climbing.

 

jack

[Plaidman]

I have never climbed it. But I would suggest going with an experienced climber for your first time out. I may be wrong. I just would go about it that way as you indicated that it was your first mountain. For instance I know that later in the year there can be a problem of rock fall on Mt. Hood. You need to start early so the snow is hard. It is best to climb when the snow is hard as post holing is a bitch. Like I said I have never invested the time in investigating climbing Mt. Saint Helens, but there are a few skills that are required in mountaineering.

Edited August 30, 2010 by Plaidman

[Plaidman]

Did you know that you need a permit?

[AlpineK]

If you mean built structures by, "pillars," then no there are none. The route is frequently climbed though, so there are a lot of foot tracks and bits of trail to follow.

 

If it's a beautiful sunny day and stays that way then you shouldn't have much of a problem ascending or descending. On the other hand if there are clouds that descend and create a white out then all bets are off. Slopes on the south side of the mountain are wide without lots of features. All directions can look good, and foot tracks you follow may may be tracks placed by other lost people.

[Plaidman]

and foot tracks you follow may may be tracks placed by other lost people.

 

Good point

[obwan]

As mentioned, weather is the main factor. Obviously this time of year there is no snow (so it's just a walk up), but if it's socked in forget it. The pillars you mentioned are maybe reference to wood posts along the ridge line.