Mt. Saint helens hanging?

**Pushbrew** · 09-22-2013, 22:03

Long time lurker, first time poster. This forum has been indispensable in my becoming a well versed and confident hammock backpacker, so thank you all for that. My question for this oh so knowledgeable community is wether or not I can expect to find suitable hammock hanging sites along the loowit trail, circumnavigating Mt. Saint Helens. Planning on doing the loop, with a summit in four days, three nights in mid October. Any insight appreciated... Thanks in advance.

**Acer** · 09-22-2013, 22:24

Be prepared for snow on the summit in mid Oct. Lots of trees around the base and low sides 14 yrs ago when I was there, Where the forests didn't regenerate themselves, the timber companies along with the govt. and state reforested it to where its so thick in places when I was there it was hard to consider in places to walk thru. I am sure someone local can chime in, but should find lots of trees to hang from. Be prepared for snow/rain.

**ceiliazul** · 09-22-2013, 23:20

On the south side, near climber's bivouac definitely. Near June lake and further East, the trees are sparse, but it can be done. Haven't tried the west side. No camping allowed on the north side, and no trees besides.

Good luck!

**Gary_R** · 09-22-2013, 23:54

I don't have a lot of experience on St Helens.. Tons on Hood and other areas though.
Couple localish Hangs coming up (Sig) come meet peeps and Welcome!

**Pushbrew** · 09-23-2013, 00:06

Thanks all for the insight so far. We are prepared for the 14 mile no camping stretch. We are day packing the summit from a campsite, so we wont be encumbered by full packs. I welcome anyone else to chime in with their experience.

**ceiliazul** · 09-23-2013, 22:36

the summit: bring hiking poles for the giant ash pile that is the last 1500 feet. Also, gloves help navigate the boulders on monitor ridge.

**Sky kid** · 10-25-2013, 18:41

Hope you have a fun trip. i've spent at least 14 nights at June Lake, just east of Climber's Biv. I know you'll find places to hang at those 2 locations. i've seen the trail disappear a few times due to ash slides on the loowit.. One time enough to turn around. You shouldn't have any problems this time of year. Let us know how it turns out.