You may also choose to climb next to the ridge if there is snow and ice and you are equipped with crampons. Needless to say, watch your step and stay off the cornices - false edges made of snow and ice that can collapse under a person's weight. If you are standing on top on a clear day, you can see most of the mountains of the Cascade Range, and the Pacific Ocean to the West. Take lots of pictures, have lunch, and regain your energy for the descent. Because getting to the top is only half the battle.
Most people think going down is the easy part.
You must also traverse the boulders just below the top of Monitor Ridge, which is always harder going down. You put a lot of pressure on your knees and ankles so when you finally make it back to your car, your joints are usually pretty swollen and painful, as well as your leg muscles. There are two ways to help this. One way is to take aspirin and anti-inflamatories if you have them. This will reduce swelling and aches and pains.