Mount St. Helens 7/25/09

Time for our annual trek to the top of Mount St. Helens -- this year with 18 climbers and four hikers/support folks!

Because of expected heat, we hit the trail earlier than first planned. We got our group picture and were heading out by 6:15 a.m.

From Mount St. Helens

The first 2 miles were nice in the shady woods, though we could tell it was going to be a hot day. We emerged from the forest and climbed up onto the rocky ridge. But once on top, we were able to hike up the west edge of the ridge, keeping us in the shade much longer.


We finally emerged from the boulders and started the slog up the scree field. Imagine a massive, mile-long sand dune.







After about 4.5 hours, the group I was with reached the summit! WOOHOO!










That was my fifth MSH summit and Brad's sixth!

The weather was nice, so Brad and I hung out at the top until everyone made it. Here they come...









The trip down took a turn for the worse when Mike sprained his ankle in the boulder field. Brad and Tim helped him limp down to the flat trail.


My mom, aunt, sister and Cash had a burrito bar waiting at the base camp when we each arrived. Best burritos ever! Oh, and Brad's mom sent a variety of homemade cookies - YUM!!!!!!

Overall, it was a terrific day! We're already planning next year's trip :)

Click below to see more pictures from our climb: