Trip report by: Christopher Chapman
"I would definitely recommend this trip to a friend."
Leaving the Norway Pass Trailhead, we traveled 2.2 miles up to the Pass to a classic view of Mt. St. Helens. From there to Bear Pass, another ~300 feet, and then drop into the backcountry. It definitely hardgoing as there lots of ups and downs and the trail isn't maintained very well. Plus, this isn't the usual soft, needle blanketed trail of the PNW. Hard rock is the norm.
There are 3 campsites on 3 different lakes in the next 4.5 miles. Panhandle Lake is the best but they are all very scenic. It is all located in the area where trees have been knocked down and you have no views of Mt. St. Helens. This area is very lonely due to the restrictions the MSHNM put on the number of people. We did this trip in September and were the only ones back there.
The next day, we did the Mt. Whittier trail. The sign said that the trail was closed and we found out where and went around by scrambling up. Please note: The Mt. Whittier trail is not for anyone who is not strong and who has a fear of heights. The trail is two miles long and in many places require both hands and feet to navigate. It travels along the top of a ridge for 2 miles that literally is hundreds of feet down both sides of the trail. I can't believe that they even put a trail there.
There seemed to be fish in the lakes if you are interested.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.