Loowit #216: Butte Camp - Ptarmigan

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Features River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This section of the Loowit Trail #216 begins at Butte Camp Trail #238A junction with the Loowit Trail and runs east to end at the Ptarmigan Trail #216A junction.

This section of the Loowit Trail provides an invigorating and challenging hike across the rough terrain typical of a young volcano. The trail climbs over lava flows reminiscent of rock gardens thick with heather and delicate mosses. Here you can enjoy excellent views as you travel along the southern slope of Mount St. Helens. Pass through the tall spires of scattered subalpine firs and mountain meadows speckled with wildflowers. See the backbone of Monitor Ridge looming larger and larger on the horizon as you near the junction of Ptarmigan Trail #216A.

This trail receives minimal maintenance and gains little elevation as it follows the timberline of Mount St. Helens. Steep ascents and descents can be expected over massive lava flows. The route is marked by wooden posts over sections with minimal trail tread.