Mt. Shuksan

Mt. Shuksan, the only non-volcanic peak whose summit exceeds timberline by more than 3,000 feet in Washington state, is considered to have some of the best glaciers for training in the United States and is the primary location for Alpine Ascents International’s North Cascades training courses. You will learn proper ice axe use and self arrest skills to prepare you for more demanding alpine climbs. This is a beautiful mountain whose picturesque pointed summit inspires many a post card, coffee table book and brochure about the North Cascades.

Physical conditioning

Details below provided by AAI.

This three-day climb is a serious undertaking. Just because you exercise regularly (four to six times per week) does not mean you have the conditioning needed to climb Mt. Shuksan. Plenty of people who can run a marathon fail to summit Shuksan. Pure cardiovascular fitness is simply not enough. You need to be able to ascend 4,000 – 5,000 feet in successive days with substantial weight on your back. Expect to carry at least a 55 – 65 pound pack of tents, gear and food (or more) to get in to base camp. The ascent to the summit, comparable elevation gain to the approach, involves carrying a pack weight of about half that of your approach pack.