The Worm Flows Climbing Route, from Marble Mountain Snow-Park, is the most direct route to the summit of Mount St. Helens during the winter season. Ice axe, crampons, and avalanche awareness are recommended on this route. Skis with climbing skins or snowshoes with cleats are also highly recommended. Looking for the summer route? Find it here.
Named for the rivers of rocky lava that surround the trail, the 10.8-mile Worm Flows route ascends nearly 5,700 feet to the summit of Mount St. Helens. Although challenging, this standard winter and spring route provides a non-technical climb for experienced hikers craving sweet summit views and a chance to practice basic mountaineering skills.
Start at the Marble Mountain Sno Park. Cross to the west side of Swift Creek, just above Chocolate Falls, at an elevation of 3,700 feet. Follow ridges and open slopes to the crater rim. Wooden route marking posts guide climbers from timberline to approximately 4,800 feet of elevation. About two miles in, leave the forest and pass views of Chocolate Falls, a 40-foot waterfall along Swift Creek, heading into a barren landscape of mudflows and rock, where large posts and occasional cairns mark the way. Navigate through the jumbled lava flows, then push beyond cloud level toward St. Helens' false summit.
The route crests the crater's crescent-shaped rim, revealing dramatic views of Spirit Lake and Mount Rainier. But you're not finished yet. Head west along the rim to the true summit, a mound of rocks at 8,365 feet. Savor more sweet views before turning around for the return trip back to the trailhead.
Hike safely - to reduce your exposure to avalanche potential, stay away from snow loaded slopes and gully bottoms. Stay off the cornices at the crater rim.
WTA Pro Tip: Winter climbers can self-issue their permits at the Climber's Bivouac trailhead. No fee is required for permits between November 1 and March 31. If you'd like to summit St. Helens in the spring, summer, or fall, a paid permit is required. Learn more by visiting their website.
Mount St. Helens - Worm Flows Route
46.1308,
-122.1696
Map & Directions
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Length
- 12.0 miles, roundtrip
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Elevation Gain
- 5,699 feet
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Highest Point
- 8,364 feet
The Worm Flows Climbing Route, from Marble Mountain Sno-Park, is the most direct route to the summit of Mount St. Helens during the winter season. Ice axe, crampons, and avalanche awareness are necessary when attempting to summit St. Helens in the winter. Skis with climbing skins or snowshoes with cleats are also highly recommended.
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Hiking Mount St. Helens - Worm Flows Route
Map & Directions
Trailhead
Before You Go
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
National Monument Fee, Sno-Parks PermitWTA Pro Tip: Save a copy of our directions before you leave! App-based driving directions aren't always accurate and data connections may be unreliable as you drive to the trailhead.
Getting There
From the town of Cougar, drive east on Lewis River Road, which turns into Forest Road 90. Continue on FR 90 until the intersection with Forest Road 83. Turn left on FR 83 and continue approximately 6 miles to the Marble Mountain Sno-Park. During the winter and early spring, FR 83 is gated at the Sno-Park.
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