Mt. Baker Summit Climb
Mt. Baker Summit Climb
Mt. Baker Summit Climb
Mt. Baker Summit Climb
Mt. Baker Summit Climb

Mt. Baker Summit Climb

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. 

Duration

  • 2 days
  • 1 night

Season

  • Spring
  • Summer

Client:Guide Ratio

3:1

Minimum Participants

3

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.

  • Mount Hood Skills Course or equivalent experience.
  • Ability to safely travel on moderate to steep snow slopes with crampons and ice axe.
  • Knowledge of basic climbing knots is recommended.
  • Experience with glacier travel is recommended.
  • Any additional mountaineering experience will enhance your ability to learn, but is not required.
  • Ability to hike for 4 hours and ascend up to 3000' with a 40 lb pack, followed by the ability to hike for 12 hours and ascend up to 5000' with a 25 lb pack.
  • Upon registration, you will receive a confirmation email full of important information - make sure to read it thoroughly!
  • 7-10 days before your trip you will receive an email from your guide containing even more details, including the exact meetup location and time.
  • Plan to attend a virtual pre-trip meeting in the evening a few days before your course begins. This is required and a great opportunity to meet your guide, review gear, discuss your trip plan, and ask any last minute questions. The exact time of your meeting will be set by your instructor and noted in their welcome email.
  • Leading up to your course, make sure to eat healthy, drink extra water, and get plenty of sleep.
  • Please arrive on time and ready to go at your pre-arranged meeting location. Upon arrival, we'll distribute any group gear and finish loading our packs. From there we will caravan to the trailhead.
  • All along the way, our office team is available via email or phone to answer any questions you may have.

This trip will leave you with knowledge and practical application of:

  • Gear packing and equipment choices.
  • Self-care on the mountain.
  • Using crampons and ice axe.
  • Self-Arrest and self-belay.
  • Ascending and descending steep snow slopes.
  • Basic knots used for mountaineering.
  • Glacier rigging, rope team travel and rope management.
  • Mountain hazards and safe travel practices.
  • Basic emergency response.


PLUS:

  • A fun experience you’ll remember forever! 
  • A sense of accomplishment in achieving your goals for the trip.
  • Confidence in your newfound skills and where to take them next.
  • Tips and tricks to add to your toolbox from our professional and knowledgeable guides.
Mt. Baker Summit Climb