If you’ve ever wondered what conquering a volcanic mountain peak would be like, look no further! Shaped for centuries by numerous layers of hardened lava, Mt. Shasta has become one of the most stunning ice-topped volcanoes whose sublime beauty bedazzles even the most seasoned ski mountaineers. Standing at an elevation of 14,179 ft (4,322 m) and boasting an abundance of accessible routes with open glades and quality snowpack, the second-highest peak in the Cascades is ideal for those in quest of a challenging, yet immensely rewarding ski mountaineering experience. You’ll be accompanied by a professional guide whose main priority is your safety, so you can put your mind at ease and have a blast on this stunning mountain. Find out more about Mount Shasta, one of the best backcountry locations in California, from 57hours in collaboration with local guides.
What you get in this adventure:
What’s not included:
In order to enjoy these ski mountaineering adventures, you need to be in great physical shape and have excellent endurance seeing as you’ll climb over 7,000 ft before descending this marvelous volcano. You need to be confident in various snow conditions and ready to implement efficient climbing techniques.The ascent to this peak poses a serious challenge, especially on a 1-day trip where you’ll summit the mountain in one single and continuous push. You need to be able to move quickly for thousands of feet and many hours. While attempting the summit is easier over 2 or 3 days, it is still quite strenuous. Don’t forget that you need to be able to carry a heavy pack while summiting this colossal volcanic mountain that lies ahead of you.
These ski mountaineering trips to Mt. Shasta are intended for intermediate and advanced ski mountaineers and the participants are expected to have prior experience and knowledge when it comes to using an ice axe and crampons, as well as possess rope skills. This is a fast-paced adventure, but your guide will make sure to provide a quick refresher on these prerequisite skills so that you can experience this volcanic peak the right way.
All of the group gear for the trip will be provided by your guiding service and it includes tents, stove, fuel for stoves, ropes, wag bags, First Aid kit, snow pickets and rock protection.
For technical backcountry ski touring gear, you will need to bring:
For personal items, we recommend bringing:
All mandatory gear can be rented if you don’t have your own. You can rent:
Ski rental locations are in Truckee and should be picked up the night prior to your outing. If you need to rent gear, let us know and we can help make arrangements.
Group sizes:
Ski mountaineering in Mt. Shasta can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has skiers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to Mt. Shasta, most people fly into Rogue Valley International, only 1.5 hours away from the town of Mount Shasta. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to get to the town. The closest airport, however, is Redding Municipal Airport, just an hour away. Some bigger airports include Sacramento International Airport and Reno-Tahoe International Airport, about 4 hours away.
Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, you’ll meet your guide at the trailhead. From there, you’ll head to your tour. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ski ability of the group.
57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.
We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re travelling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Mount Shasta, CA, please refer to the Official California State Government and Siskiyou County Public Health.
Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!
Day Trips Cancellations
Fully refundable within the initial 48 hours from booking, unless the trip date is less than 7 days from the time of the booking.
Cancellations up to 7 days prior to the trip date are refundable 100%.
Cancellations within 7 days prior to the trip date are non-refundable.
Blackbird Mountain Guides is an amazing guide service! They tailor trips based on your individual preferences and abilities and are eager to help you develop new skill sets. The guides have extensive subject matter expertise and are extremely professional. I have done numerous climbs with Zeb specifically, including a recent trip a few weeks back – it was (as always) thoroughly enjoyable. There is a reason I keep coming back and climbing with Zeb – you always know you are in the best possible hands. Based on my past experiences, I am currently planning two more trips next year with Blackbird Mountain Guides. A top-notch company.