The Worm Flows route is by far the most popular of the "off season" climbing routes on St Helens. The ascent is relatively straightforward, following a well-trodden trail to June Lake and the low timberline where ancient lava flows once poured down the flanks of this active volcano. From here, pick a route on the open lava flow. Stay on one of the small ridges to minimize avalanche hazard. Curve left once you get near the crater rim, but be sure to stay well back from it, as cornices here are truly gigantic and a fall into the crater would be catastrophic. The true summit is west of where you top out, but again, reaching the "high point" is not recommended because of the cornice hazard. On a clear day, the views are spectacular, but if you are stuck in fog, be sure to bring navigation devices. The slope on the upper mountain is as much as 35 degrees, but can be ascended (and descended!) on skis in the right snow conditions. Avalanche hazard is highest in the afternoon if it's sunny. I.