*LEAVE NO TRACE, PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT*
Due to a lapse of federal funding for the US Forest Service, National Park Service, our public lands are even more vulnerable. Mt. St. Helens is a national monument, and is therefore affected by the government shutdown. PLEASE BE RESPECTFUL AND LEAVE THE LAND BETTER THAN YOU FOUND IT!
Hoped to do this trail in the winter as a snowshoe, but alas- climate change. Amazing bluebird day with INSANE sustained wind gusts on this trail. No measurable snow on the trail until climbing to the top of Johnston Ridge, almost to the observatory. Needed trekking poles today to keep from getting blown off balance during the traverses.
Beware that pumice soil, especially with snowmelt moisture, will slide beneath your foot. The trail is almost washed out on many 35-45 degree angled slopes, watch your footing!
Comments
I've been meaning to get back up there, and was definitely expecting more snow than this! Still beautiful as always, thanks for the report.
Posted by:
lonerwolf on Jan 12, 2019 09:52 PM