MOUNT BAKER


Mount Baker, also known as Koma Kulshan by the local indigenous tribes, is an impressive stratovolcano located in the North Cascades of Washington State, USA. Rising to an elevation of 10,781 feet (3,286 meters), it is one of the most prominent and iconic peaks in the Pacific Northwest region.

Geologically, Mount Baker is part of the Cascade Range, a volcanic arc that extends from Northern California through Oregon and Washington and up into British Columbia, Canada. The mountain's cone-shaped profile is a result of its eruptive history, characterized by multiple eruptions and lava flows over thousands of years.

One of Mount Baker's most striking features is the heavily glaciated terrain that covers much of its surface. The mountain hosts numerous glaciers, including the Easton, Coleman, and Deming glaciers, among others. These immense ice rivers not only add to the breathtaking beauty of the landscape but also contribute significantly to the region's hydrology and play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate ecosystems of the area.

Mount Baker is the perfect mountain to introduce beginner climbers to the world of mountaineering. It offers a stunning forested environment as a starting point, along with the opportunity to experience glaciers. it attracts outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year, offering a wide array of recreational opportunities. In the warmer months, hikers and climbers flock to its slopes to conquer its challenging routes, with the most popular being the Coleman-Deming and Easton Glacier routes.

The surrounding Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest provides a haven for a diverse range of flora and fauna. The lower elevations are adorned with lush forests of Douglas fir, western hemlock, and cedar trees, while the subalpine and alpine regions are carpeted with vibrant wildflowers during the brief summer months. its recreational appeal,

Mount Baker holds significant cultural and spiritual importance to the indigenous peoples of the region. The mountain is considered sacred by several Native American tribes, who have lived in the area for thousands of years.

TRIP DATE:

Jun 28th -30th: 5 spot left

July 5th -7th: Open

July 12th- 14th: 7 spot left

July 19th- 21st: Full

August 2nd-4th: Open

August 9th-11th: Open

PRICING:$950.00

  • Difficulity Level: Easy

  • Duration: 3 Days

  • Fitness Level: Medium

  • Elevation: 3,870 M / 12,700 FT.

ITINERARY

DAY 1

  • Depart at 6:00 AM from Seattle. After 2 to 3 hours of driving we will reach Schriebers meadow trailhead. Hiking starts at 3,400 ft and for the first hours we will be traveling through pine forest. This trail will connect to the Railroad Grade Trail which will get us to Sandy Camp, where we will camp overnight. Sandy Camp is approximately 6,500 ft high. After setting the camp there will be a basic snow school which will take 3 to 4 hours and include approximately 4 miles of hike.

  • We will have the option of summiting on day 2 or day 3 depending on weather. If we decide to summit on day 3 then we will have the snow school on day 2.

DAY 2

  • If the weather allows, we will wake up around 4:00 AM and depart at 5:00 AM. We will be climbing through Easton glacier until the crater rim which is at 9,800ft. From here we can look down at the crater. On your right we will have a great view of Sherman peak. After a quick rest, the climb will continue up the famous Roman Wall and over the summit plateau to the summit of KomaKulsan. It will probably take around 5to 6 hours to reach the summit and half of that time for descent. On the summit day we will cover 6 miles (to and from)

DAY 3

  • Pretty leisurely morning, after breakfast we will pack up and descend to Schribers meadow which will take us 2 to 2.5 hours. Then drive back to Seattle.

  • We can stop in between for lunch on the way back home (Optional)

  • This climb does not require previous mountaineering experience but should have backpacking and camping experience. You must be able to carry 35 to 40 lbs during your climb from Schriebers Meadow trailhead to Sandy Camp comfortably. We recommend training with heavy backpack, hiking up hill and down hill few months before the climb.

Gear check and orientation day before the climb 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.

MEALS DURING CLIMB

We will provide dinners, breakfast and hot drinks during your climb on the mountain. But you are responsible to bring your own lunch. For lunch, bring what works best for you. Recommendation below.

Day 1: About 1000 calories lunch for this day.

  • Pizza or sandwich, Fresh fruits, Candy bars, Meat and cheese, Electrolyte drinks mix

Day 2 or summit day: about 1200 calories of foods for this day

  • 3 to 4 energy bars, 2 energy gel or shot blocks,Some salty snacks Mix of Nuts

Day 3: 600 to 800 calories of foods for this day

  • Your favorite candy bars, Bagel with meat and cheese. Nuts or trail mix etc

    Total of 3,000 calories of lunch you need to bring for the climb.

  • Lakpa Rita Sherpa

    Kami Rita Sherpa

    Deposit:

    • Deposit of US$200.00 is payable to secure a place on the expedition.

    • Each deposit includes a US$200.00 nonrefundable registration fee.

    Balance:

    • The balance of US$750.00 is due Feb 15, 2024.

    • Remaining balance that are not received with the 121 day deadline, risk forfeiture of their place and registration fee on the climb.

    All payments are due 121 days before the departure

  • Refund Policy:

    • Please note that the registration fee is non-refundable.

    • Full refunds, less the registration fee ($200), will be provided for cancellations made 90 days before the expedition date.

    • Our refund policy also protects other climbers that have dedicated their time and capital to the expedition.

    Trip Cancellation Insurance:

    • We highly advise our clients to take out trip cancellation insurance. This helps you against any cancellation due to personal or medical reasons.

    • This may be the only way to receive your non-refundable deposits.

    • All group camp supplies, such as tents, stoves, ropes, pickets etc.

    • Two dinner and breakfast on the mountain

    • Guides 3:1 ratio

    • Permits and Park entrance fees

    • Transportation to trail head and back

    • All personal gears, hotel in Seattle

    • Transportation in the city

    • Lunch for three days (recommendation above )

    • tips for the guids