Glacier Peak is one of Washington’s most remote volcanoes, requiring a long approach and technical glacier travel to reach the summit. This 4-day itinerary follows the North Fork Sauk River Trail and Disappointment Peak Cleaver Route, the most common path to the summit. The trip involves long hiking days, glacier travel, and high-altitude exposure, making it suitable for experienced backpackers and mountaineers with glacier travel skills.

Day 1: Trailhead to White Pass

• Distance: ~9 miles

• Elevation Gain: ~4,000 ft

• Time: 5-7 hours

• Camp: White Pass (5,900 ft)

Leave from Seattle to North Fork Sauk River Trailhead (2,100 ft). The first few miles are relatively flat, following the river through dense forests. Around 5 miles in, the trail steepens significantly, gaining over 3,000 feet in just 3 miles as you climb toward White Pass. Expect switchbacks and a strenuous ascent.

At White Pass (5,900 ft), set up camp in the meadows with beautiful views of the Cascades. This is a good spot to rest and acclimate before the higher elevations ahead.

Day 2: White Pass to Glacier Gap

• Distance: ~7 miles

• Elevation Gain: ~2,500 ft

• Time: 5-7 hours

• Camp: Glacier Gap (7,200 ft)

Leave White Pass early and follow the Foam Creek Trail, heading toward the open alpine terrain of Mackinaw Shelter Basin. After crossing rocky slopes and meadows, navigate across glacial moraine fields and ascend steep ridges leading toward Glacier Gap (7,200 ft).

This section involves some route-finding, as the terrain includes scree fields, snowfields, and rocky ridges. Upon reaching Glacier Gap, you’ll be at the base of Glacier Peak with stunning views of its glaciers. Set up camp and prepare for the summit push.

Day 3: Summit Day (Glacier Gap to Glacier Peak Summit and Back to Camp)

• Distance: ~6 miles round trip

• Elevation Gain: ~3,300 ft

• Time: 8-12 hours

• Camp: Glacier Gap (7,200 ft)

Start early (around 2-4 AM) for the summit bid. The route ascends the Cool Glacier before transitioning to the Disappointment Peak Cleaver, a rocky ridge leading to the upper glacier. Be prepared for glacier travel, crevasse navigation, and potentially icy conditions.

The final ascent involves climbing moderate snow slopes (30-40° angle) to the summit ridge. After reaching the summit of Glacier Peak (10,541 ft), enjoy breathtaking views of the North Cascades, including Mount Baker, Mount Rainier, and the surrounding peaks.

Descend carefully back to Glacier Gap, where you’ll spend another night.

Day 4: Glacier Gap to Trailhead

• Distance: ~16 miles

• Elevation Loss: ~5,000+ ft

• Time: 8-10 hours

Wake up early for the long descent. Retrace your steps back to White Pass, then descend the steep switchbacks of the North Fork Sauk Trail to the trailhead. Expect tired legs and a rewarding finish after four days in one of Washington’s most remote mountain areas.

Pack Weight

Climbers must be able to carry an average of 50 pounds or more

** Gear check and orientation session will be held day before the climb at 22124 1st Dr Se Bothell WA 98021. To ensure everyone has the required gears for the climb and talk about Leave No Trace at 2 pm. Please plan to attend as it is mandatory. It will take the afternoon.**