Ski & Ride Trips

Glacier Peak

Glacier Peak is Washington’s most remote and least summited volcano. Climbing to its summit is a true wilderness experience, complete with hiking miles of trail through old growth forests, crossing ridges and glaciers, and enjoying scenic and peaceful camps deep in the backcountry. The final ascent up the Cool Glacier to the summit presents moderate climbing with spectacular views. Climbers of all skill levels who are looking for a classic wilderness experience will enjoy traveling into the heart of the cascades for this beautiful climb.

$1200 - $2200

Here’s What To Expect

Itinerary

• Day 1: We’ll meet in the town of Darrington to do a Gear Check and review the trip itinerary before traveling to the North Fork Sauk Trailhead. This first day will be fully on trail, meandering up a river valley before a final switchbacking climb to meet the Pacific Crest Trail, where we will make camp.
• Day 2: We’ll continue our approach, moving north toward Glacier Peak. A progressively more sparse trail weaves back and forth over ridgelines, crosses snowfields and glaciers and eventually brings us to Glacier Gap. Here we’ll set up camp and prepare for the next day’s summit push.
• Day 3: In the morning we’ll pass through Glacier Gap and continue working the South Ridge toward the Cool Glacier. After gaining the glacier, we’ll continue our climb toward the final summit ridge. From the top of the glacier, a bit of climbing up talus slopes leads to the summit of Glacier Peak. Take in spectacular views over the surrounding wilderness before reversing your route to camp.
• Day 4: A morning departure will get us going on the descent to the cars. We’ll spend most of the last day hiking back to the trailhead the way we came, enjoying final scenic views back at Glacier Peak as we drop back into the rainforest.

This general itinerary is subject to change based on weather, route conditions, and participant skill level, among other factors.

Trip Details

Ratio

1 - 4 Guests Per Guide

Season

June - September

Duration

4 Days

Skill level

Beginner +

Program Rates

$1200 - $2200

Program Cost Includes: Ropes, tents, stoves, fuel, 3 breakfasts, 3 dinners
Program Cost Does NOT Include: Transportation

Reviews

• Over 100 5 star reviews!

“Climbing with CMA was a true reflection of mindful mountaineering. As a female mountain lover, I’m used to being the only lady in a group of dudes. Sometimes that doesn’t feel 100% comfortable, particularly when you feel like it’s all about the grind, no emotions allowed. With CMA I felt that I was part of a big bear hug of awesomeness. Guides often set the tone for the team, and Zack set a tone of kindness and respect for everyone. When the going got tough, his humor lightened the mood without jeopardizing the seriousness of what we doing. I will definitely be climbing with CMA again!”

- Adrienne

“They do the essentials really well: they’re professional, knowledgeable and competent, great teachers, and always keep an eye on safety as every guide service must. What sets them apart for me is that they do all that AND make it FUN. Some of the best times I’ve ever had in the mountains are with this crew. I highly recommend them!”

- Chase

“I hired this guide crew for technical education and then returned for their recreational guiding services. I’ll continue to lean on Cascade Mountain Ascents to bring me further into the backcountry and advance my technical skills in the mountains.”

- Blake

“Cascade Mountain Ascents is seriously raising the bar for avalanche education—Fun-loving, inclusive, knowledgeable, fantastic educators, and all around stellar folks! I would absolutely recommend taking a course or spending a weekend in the mountains CMA!”

- Maggie

“Zack and Cascade Mountain Ascents is the best choice for your adventure no matter your skill level. From beginner to seasoned pro, Zack has you covered. His knowledge and skills of all-terrain and mountain situations had us feeling safe and confident all the way.”

- Adrian

“I’ve taken courses with the guides at CMA as well as gotten personal goals accomplished. Each time I’ve come away more competent, more confident, and inspired to take what I’ve learned into my next outing.”

- BRENNAN

“Fifth time out there with Zack – and as always it was spectacular. Zack‘s calm guiding style – paired with perfect preparation and route planning – pushes you without ever overwhelming personal abilities and strength. Countless successfully climbed peaks and everlasting memories are the rewards.”

- WOLFGANG

“I have skied with all of the guides at CMA and have had great experiences. They are passionate about their craft, and it shows in the experiences they provide. They know where to find the best skiing and have extensive knowledge of the local terrain.”

- PATRICK