Fumarole — Not a Soaking Spring
Mt St Helens Fumaroles is a fumarole, not a traditional hot spring. These geothermal features can be extremely dangerous — boiling water, toxic gases, and unstable ground are common hazards. Do not attempt to soak.
File:ColdwaterII LANDSAT7color.png — cc by-sa 3.0
Mount St. Helens fumaroles reach 190 degrees at 6,906 feet elevation on the crater rim, emerging 159.1 degrees above ambient in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. These intensely hot geothermal features require a 5.6-kilometer hike from Climber's Bivouac Road, occupying the volcano's post-1980 eruption crater.
The fumaroles sit within the horseshoe-shaped crater created by the May 18, 1980 eruption that removed the volcano's north face. Annual precipitation totals 103 inches with 278.3 inches of snow. The landscape remains raw and actively evolving, with pumice fields, growing lava dome, and minimal vegetation. Views extend into the crater and across the blast zone.
History of Mt St Helens Fumaroles
The 1980 eruption fundamentally transformed Mount St. Helens, removing 1,300 feet of elevation and creating the current crater. Ongoing geothermal activity reflects magma movement beneath the volcano, monitored continuously by the USGS Cascades Volcano Observatory. Climbing routes were reestablished in the 1980s as the mountain stabilized under Forest Service management.
Reaching the fumaroles requires a climbing permit from April through October, obtained through recreation.gov lottery. The hike gains significant elevation through pumice and boulder fields. Lower Falls Campground, 25 kilometers away, provides base camping. Monitor volcanic activity bulletins and weather forecasts. Bring sun protection, as the pumice slopes reflect intense radiation.
Is Mt St Helens Fumaroles worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Mt St Helens Fumaroles is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 103.0 in
Annual Snow: 278.3 in
December
Air 17°F · Water 190°F · +173° contrast
January
Air 18°F · Water 190°F · +172° contrast
February
Air 18°F · Water 190°F · +172° contrast
December offers 32°F more contrast than August
Overview
Lower Falls Campground is located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Visitors enjoy several waterfalls in the area and access to the Lewis River Trail. The campground is open from mid-May through October.Recreation
Near the campground are several trailheads that provide visitors with a variety of recreational opportunities. There are hiking trails, mountain bike trails, horse trails, and motorcycle trails within 10 miles of the campground.
The Lewis River contains rainbow, cutth...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Lower Falls Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: (MOUNT ST. HELENS 15) · PP 492: 12.0 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: HOQUIAM
What is the water temperature at Mt St Helens Fumaroles?
Mt St Helens Fumaroles has a water temperature of 190°F (88°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Mt St Helens Fumaroles located?
Mt St Helens Fumaroles is located in Lewis County, Washington at 6,906 feet elevation, near Morton. Coordinates: 46.1980°N, 122.1970°W.
How do I get to Mt St Helens Fumaroles?
Mt St Helens Fumaroles has Hike road access, with the nearest road being Climber's Bivouac Road (3.5 mi from the road).
Is Mt St Helens Fumaroles free to visit?
Mt St Helens Fumaroles has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Mt St Helens Fumaroles?
Yes, Lower Falls Campground is located nearby (15.5 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Mt St Helens Fumaroles?
The water at Mt St Helens Fumaroles reaches 190°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Mt St Helens Fumaroles crowded?
Mt St Helens Fumaroles sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Mt St Helens Fumaroles?
Essentials for Mt St Helens Fumaroles: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.