Mount Saint Helens Summitโฆ โ
Are you planning on bagging any summits this summer?? This was actually my first significant summit and while it didnโt go perfectly (shout out sunburn all over my face๐ฅต), it was such an incredible experience! Watch until the end for some glissading fun which was a highlight and such a joyous inner child experience haha. A big shoutout to my summit friends @halletreks, and @say.sydney who invited me on the adventure and were the best company as we made the trek!
Here are some of tips if youโre taking on your first summit soon โคต๏ธ
1.) The earlier start the better. If you can catch sunrise at the summit itโs worth it but more importantly, the less time you spend trekking under the hot sun, the better.
2.) Wear a sun hoody/other sun protection gear + 100% have sunglasses. Nothing will ruin the post summit feeling quicker than a blistering burn.
3.) Apply sunscreen to all uncovered areas multiple times if youโre in continual sun. Two times was not enough on this summit haha.
4.) Hydrate consistently and if you have a sawyer squeeze or other water filter, bring it for some fresh cold mountain water on the hike down if thereโs a creek/glacier run off.
5.) Having enough calories in your body is key. Eat a good amount the day before and consistently the day of. Thereโs no shame in taking extra snack breaks.
6.) Check recent @alltrails reports before you hike up to see if youโll still need to have any traction gear like snow shoes, micro-spikes or crampons.
7.) Outside of that, take your time and enjoy the experience!
I hope that these tips help you on your first summit, or serve as a good reminder for you next. Feel free to share them with friends who also might want to tackle a summit this summer! Happy adventuring!๐ค๐ป