The North Cascades form the largest and most rugged alpine wilderness mountain range in the contiguous US. Contained within this range are scores of peaks topping 8,000', upwards of 400 glaciers and countless permanent snowfields. Most of the high peaks in the North Cascades are composed of metamorphic or intrusive igneous rocks. These weather resistant rocks have been heavily sculpted by alpine glaciation producing stunning peaks and ridges. These breathtaking views and the wide variety of alpine climbing have earned the area the nickname "The American Alps". The North Cascades are considered the premier training ground for developing alpine climbers.


The weather in the North Cascades can be extremely variable with snow below 3,000'. Precipitation levels are heavy, particularly during the winter months. "Variable conditions" also include glorious weather for lengthy periods, usually in late summer. For instructional purposes, the optimum time to climb in the Cascades is from early May through late August. This is when the combination of weather and snow conditions is usually at its best.


The vegetation and wildlife of the North Cascades are interesting and diverse. Approximately 150 common species and another 100 or so less common species of wildflowers bloom during the summer. This range is aesthetically exceptional and we hope you find yourself returning many times to enjoy its grandeur.
Many who have been introduced to the world of alpine climbing in the Cascades have gone on to climb in the world's greatest mountain ranges. We hope our program will be the first step towards a lifetime of mountaineering.


Cascades Summit Details


Mt. Baker (10,781') the highest point of the North Cascades, is a heavily glaciated dormant volcano. The twelve active glaciers of Mt. Baker cover an area exceeding 20 square miles. Mt. Baker is unique with respect to its great mass of snow and ice and easy accessibility. This combination creates a perfect alpine training ground.


El Dorado Peak (8,868') stands as one of the most majestic North Cascades mountains. It presents a strenuous climb, which rewards the physically fit with a beautiful mountaineering route. It is perhaps the most intensive training ground we use. General snow and glacier climbing skills lead one to the knife-edged snow arete at the summit and an expansive view across one of only two ice caps in the North Cascades. The aptly named Inspiration Glacier cloaks the summit and is magnificent to behold.


Mt. Daniel (7,986') a scenic hike on the Cascade Crest Trail and a timberline high camp near a beautiful glacier tarn enhance the approach to this little-known glaciated peak of the Central Cascades. This is a complex mountain requiring a broad range of basic mountaineering skills.


Sahale Peak (8,680') presents another classic North Cascades wilderness mountaineering objective and is a favorite among our guides. Climbers are rewarded with some of the best scenic views in the range. Its corniced rock and snow summit ridge rises above the small, steep Quien Sabe Glacier and provides a very aesthetic climbing line accessible with basic skills.


Mt. Shuksan (9,127') is an immense and majestic mountain. It stands as one of the finest climbs in the North Cascades. Mt. Shuksan poses diverse alpine challenges en route to its stunning ice plateau. Basic snow, glacier, ice and rock skills lead the climber across the mighty Sulfide Glacier and on to the top of this structurally beautiful alpine peak.


Glacier Peak (10,541') lovingly referred to as the "hidden giant" of the North Cascades, is the most remote of the volcanoes in this range, and is Washington's fifth highest peak. It combines a great trek through beautiful old-growth forest with a uniquely scenic, diverse, and challenging summit route. The spectacular summit views are enhanced by an uninterrupted vista of expansive virgin forests towered over by numerous snow-covered mountains.


Mt. Adams (12,276') is the third highest of the Cascade Volcanoes and the second highest mountain in Washington state. Massive in size, Adams is surrounded by blooming wildflowers and delicate lakes. The steep Adams Glacier rises over 4000' directly to the summit plateau. This mountain presents multiple challenges and is one of the most technically difficult routes we climb in the Cascades.