The northern cousin to Rainier and the third highest peak in Washington, Mount Baker is a massive stratovolcano located in the majestic North Cascades. It is the most glaciated peak in the Cascades after Rainier. Nestled in the heart of the Cascades, this challenging peak offers views that are hands down some of the best in the northwest.
While Rainier gets the most attention, due it its pedigree as the highest glaciated peak in the lower 48 states, dedicated mountaineers know that in many ways Mount Baker rivals or surpasses Rainier as a climbing destination. With a summit elevation of 10,786' there is a far lower chance of altitude sickness and its position next to Mount Shuksan and amongst the snow-capped and rocky peaks of the North Cascades is simply unmatched.
This Mt. Baker guided climb will happen on either the Coleman-Deming, Squak Glacier, or Easton Glacier routes, depending on conditions. Climbers should expect to be challenged physically and mentally on this moderately technical route and you will be rewarded for your efforts by summiting one of the biggest volcanoes in the continental United States. Our professional guides will ensure you have an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling accomplished and ready for the next summit.
Already climbed these routes before and looking for the next challenge? The North Ridge of Mt. Baker is an advanced climb compiled in many guidebooks as a Cascade classic. It features steep snow and several pitches of moderate ice climbing to reach the summit before descending the Roman Wall onto the Coleman Glacier and back to camp. The North Ridge is booked as a custom climb only; please contact us to learn more.
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Day 1 - Arrive at your designated meeting location by 8am to go over equipment, distribute group gear, and finish loading your packs before driving to the trailhead. The approach to basecamp is 3-5 miles and up to 3,000 feet of elevation gain. After setting up basecamp, you'll spend the afternoon practicing crampon and ice axe techniques, self-arrest, glacier rigging, rope team travel, and more. After a long day, you will be glad to have a hot meal and go to bed early to get some rest for the summit attempt!
Day 2 - Leave camp around 2am to start the summit attempt. Depending on the route/conditions/weather and a myriad of other factors, it can take anywhere from 4 to 12 hours to reach the summit. Enjoy the views and sense of accomplishment - you earned it! After a short celebration, be prepared to plunge step several thousand feet back to camp. We'll have a bit of a rest, then break down camp, and head back to the cars. You can expect to be back to the trailhead around 6pm.
This trip will leave you with knowledge and practical application of:
PLUS: