Mount St. Helens still wears the scars of its 1980 eruption, and the Loowit Trail lets hikers walk a full circle around it. The route is roughly 31 miles and loops the volcano in Washington state, crossing lava fields, rope-assisted gullies and the stark, treeless blast zone on the mountain's north side.
The latest episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, dedicates a long segment to the trail after hosts Zach, Katie and their dog Jabba hiked it themselves. Their account is refreshingly honest about how rough the loop can be: a rental van nearly overheated en route to the trailhead, and at Windy Pass they faced the classic Pacific Northwest curveball of trying to pitch tents in 50 mph winds — some of them without tent stakes. On the plus side, they caught a golden-hour view from Windy Pass over the barren northern flanks, which they count among the trip's standout moments.
Practical details matter on this hike. The episode covers the permits and fees required, why most people hike it clockwise, and the camping restrictions on the north side of the mountain, where you are limited to designated sites in the blast zone. Water is scarce enough to warrant its own discussion, so carrying capacity and a good plan are essential. Terrain is repeatedly described as technical — sharp volcanic boulders rather than soft forest tread — and sturdy footwear and trekking poles come recommended. The crew also weighs the best season to go; snow lingers late on the mountain, and wind exposure is a genuine factor at the passes.
What sets the Loowit apart from other volcano circumnavigations, they argue, is the raw post-eruption scenery: you hike through a landscape that is still visibly recovering, with the crater's lava dome in view and lingering signs of volcanic activity to keep things interesting. Wildlife, unsurprisingly, is sparse in the barren zones but present in the greener stretches.
For travellers, this is a compelling weekend-sized adventure for anyone who wants big volcanic scenery without committing to a thru-hike. It suits fit day-to-multi-day hikers comfortable with route-finding, exposure and unpredictable weather, and it pairs well with a visit to the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument's visitor centres. Just check conditions and permit requirements before you go — this is not a trail to improvise.
