Mount St. Helens is about one hour northeast of Portland, Ore. From Portland, travel north on Interstate 5, crossing the Columbia River into Washington State. Take the Woodland exit 21 and travel east on Highway 503 approximately 23 miles to Jack's Restaurant. Here climbers must pick up their reserved permits and register for the climb up Mount St. Helens. Climber's Bivouac is about 30 minutes beyond Jack's.
Where to stay
The Lone Fir Resort 16806 Lewis River Road
Cougar, Wash.
360-238-5210
A family-style motel offers RV camping and cabins, along with a seasonal swimming pool, laundry facilities, restaurant, and gift shop. Cabins from $45, double occupancy
Climber's Bivouac www.fs.fed.us/gpnf/recreation/mount-st-helens/camping-hiking.shtml
Campsites close to the trail head and parking. Toilets , fire grates , but no running water. Permits required.
Where to eat
Jack's Restaurant 13411 Lewis River Road
Ariel, Wash.
360-231-4276
Gourmet burgers, soups and salads, and specials such as chicken fried steak smothered in country gravy.
Cougar Bar & Grill 16849 Lewis River Road
Cougar, Wash.
360-238-5252
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner , including burgers, and fish.
Permits
April 1- Oct. 31, climbers are required to purchase a permit to climb Monitor Ridge. May 15- Oct. 31, climbing is restricted to 100 daily permit holders. A climbing permit costs $22 and can be purchased online at http://mshinstitute.org/experience/permit system.html
Information
The Mount St. Helens Volcanic Monument Headquarters 42218 Northeast Yale Bridge Road
360-247-3900
