MSH summit conditions

[clintavos]

Anyone know what kind of gear i will need to summit MSH. it's my first time and i would like to know if i need crampon's/ice axe/snow shoes or anything else.

[thechamp]

I'm heading up in a few weeks and have been checking here;

http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/mount-saint-helens

for recent conditions From what I've read, crampons would be overkill, probably the same for snowshoes since there won't likely be any powder to sink into. I'm expecting I'll go with yaktrax in a few weeks.

I'd be happy to reconsider if anyone has any firsthand knowledge.

 

[kiimsent]

We just summited last week, we started at 1am and it took 6 hours. The snow was hard and we used crampons. crampons made the climb much easier as without, we were slipping and wasting energy so take them and use them. Also take an ice axe for the glissading down, it helps to brake , and you will need to brake. If you start the climb after the sun comes up, I see no reason to use crampons as the snow gets soft fast and you will be using up alot of energy if you are on the snow. There are numerous lines that include dirt and rock that you can use that you would not be wearing crampons on. Have Fun