Join Us on 3 Days Climb of North Face of Mt. Shuksan
Mount Shuksan is often considered the most photogenic mountain in the Cascades, and the North Face of Mount Shuksan has got to be the most aesthetic route. This route not only includes climbing the classic Fischer Chimneys, but also climbs steep snow and ice on the remote North Face, circumnavigates the summit pyramid, and ascends the Southeast Ridge on solid rock to the summit. For those interested in modifying the itinerary it is also possible to climb the North Face and then ascend to the summit via the seldom done Northeast Ridge, which requires additional ice climbing and complex alpine rock climbing. Or a complete traverse of the mountain may be done using a car shuttle, by ascending the North Face and descending the Sulfide Glacier Route. All said-and-done this route is one of the most complex, challenging, and beautiful lines in the Cascades. A must-do for any developing alpine climber with the requisite skills, stamina, and experience.
This route is generally done as a carry-over, which requires participants to carry light-weight overnight packs up technical portions of the route. Participants must train well to be prepared for this Mt Shuksan North Face climb, and think critically about what gear is necessary and what can be left behind
Difficulty in Mount Shuksan North Face Climb:
- 5.7 rock climbing in mountain boots
- Steep snow or ice up to 55 degrees
- Short sections of ice up to 80 degrees
- Short sections of mixed climbing (rock climbing in crampons)
- Climbing with a light-weight overnight pack
- Grade IV
Prerequisites for Mt Shuksan North Face Climb:
- Previous multi-day backpacking experience
- Previous glacier travel and crevasse rescue experience. This can be gained on our Mountaineering Skills Course.
- Previous multipitch rock climbing experience, preferably in an alpine setting. This can be gained on our Alpine Rock Climbing Course..
- Excellent physical fitness. This trip involves long days on-the-move in the mountains while carrying a pack weighing around 30 to 35lbs. This pack will be carried while climbing rock, ice, and snow. Most participants will need to train specifically for this objective. Take a look at our Alpine Climbing Training Program for a training plan that will help you achieve this goal.
Duration
3 Days 2 Nights CampingGear check
RequiredPassport
Not needed for US citizensMinimum Age
16 years oldActivity
Alpine Rock & Ice ClimbingAccommodation
Tents
- Fuel, Pots, and Stoves
- Tents
- Group climbing equipment
- Guide Services

- Transportation
- Parking or entry fees (when applicable)
- Food or drinks
- Accommodation before or after the course
- Personal clothing
- Personal climbing equipment (rentals available)
- Gratuities for guides