Covid measures in Washington Pass

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 Washington, please refer to Washington State’s Official COVID-19 Site . 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!

What you get in this adventure: A certified AMGA or IFMGA guide with extensive knowledge of the area Two days of alpine rock climbing All technical climbing gear What’s not included: Transportation Parking Snacks and meals Park permits for the North Cascades National Park Guide gratuity — optional

How fit do I need to be?

Most of the trips are physically demanding, and your ability to enjoy the adventure depends on your health and fitness. Your trip will be more rewarding if you prepare for it in advance. Although rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength, alpine rock climbing does require a good level of fitness. Climbers should have the ability to follow 5.5 – 5.11 rock depending on the itinerary, carry a light-weight pack and move steadily for 7-9 hours. There is a possibility of snow on the approach that may require ice axes and crampons, and exposed alpine rock. To ensure you have a fulfilling day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.

What if I’ve never climbed before?

For alpine climbing in Washington Pass, climbers should know how to safely belay a lead climber, have the ability to “clean” traditional gear, rappel and be comfortable following mid-fifth class rock. If you have topped a minimum of 5.5, there are routes you can successfully complete with the help of a guide. For intermediate to advanced alpine rock climbers, Washington Pass has loads of routes to spend the day on. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals. Let your guide plan the day so you can focus on developing your skills while climbing the classic routes. The more complex routes span from 5.8 – 5.11. You will have to carry a light-weight pack and move steadily for 7-9 hours. There is possibility of snow and exposed alpine rock on the approach that may require ice axes and crampons. If you’ve never climbed before, we recommend taking an introduction to climbing course or spending a day with a guide learning the basics prior to booking this adventure. Let us know and we can arrange a custom day out with a guide for you.

What do I need to bring?

All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need: Helmet Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device and chalk bag Ropes Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.) Ice axe, steel crampons with anti-bot plates Trekking poles Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring: Fleece or wool hat Neck gaiter Hardshell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex or equivalent) Lightweight wind shell Down or synthetic jacket with hood Long-sleeved base layer Gloves Long base layer pants (tights work well in the summer) Hardshell pants Softshell pants (wind-proof or wind-resistant) Leg gaiters (ankle to mid calf height works best in summer) Liner socks and wool socks Mountaineering boots that work with crampons Climbing shoes (available for rent) Daypack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 20L backpack for a one day trip, 30-40L for multi-day trips) Sunglasses or a visor hat Water bottle or hydration pack Food you can eat on-the-go Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, blister kit, toilet paper, etc.) Camera — optional Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: The standard client to guide ratio is 2:1 and cost is per person. Costs per person will decrease as the group grows for private tours, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with a friend or a family member! Rock climbing in Washington Pass can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has climbers under the age of 18 , contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Deposits and cancellation policy

With 57hours, you benefit from both our own cancellation policy as well as that of the individual guiding service that delivers your adventure. All policies regarding cancellation will be clearly laid out by your guide after booking your adventure, but rest assured that our own cancellation policy will work on top of what is provided by your guide. For this adventure, 57hours offers a Strict Cancellation Policy, which states: If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to thirty (30) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the total amount paid when Booking. After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund. For more information on terms and conditions, please visit our Terms of Service page.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to the Washington Pass, most people fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. From there you can rent a car. Travel east from Newhalem (Highway 20) for 44 miles until you reach the Washington Pass. Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether it’s at their office or at the trailhead. Once you meet up and go over gear and safety considerations, it’s time to start your day of alpine climbing in Washington Pass.

Alpine rock climbing in Washington Pass with a guide

Granite rock spires in Washington Pass are perfect for rock climbing.

Washington Pass | Washington

Alpine Rock Climbing in Washington Pass

Season

Late May to September

Nearest city

Seattle, WA, is a 3 hours away

Duration

1-2 days

Skill level

Beginner to advanced

Guide

Jack Bynum

From $425 () / 1-2 days

Got any questions?

Overview
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Things to know

In Washington Pass you’ll find the largest collection of easily accessible alpine rock climbs in the US. The solid and textured quality of the lofty granite spires is overshadowed only by the views you get once you’ve reached the summit—glaciated peaks encircle the expansive valleys covered in fragrant conifers. The best thing is, the routes’ grades in the area range from 5.4 to 5.12, meaning there is something for everyone: from easy multi-pitch scrambles to challenging big wall pitches and glacier climbs. Step up your rock climbing game together with an expert guide and learn what makes the Washington Pass one of the best places for rock climbing in Washington.

+100 Alpine rock climbing routes with easy access from Seattle
Solid and textured rock with lots of edges, facehold and cracks
Dramatic scenery with snowy peaks and huge tree-covered valleys

Available itineraries

Alpine Climbing With a Private Guide

With dozens of classic climbs covering the full spectrum of difficulties, this adventure is ideal for anyone. Beginner alpine climbers can enjoy a day of learning the basic skills and techniques, while more experienced climbers can reach summits, explore the snow covered peaks and enjoy the distinctly alpine feel Washington Pass offers.

Intermediate Alpine Rock Climbing

One of the most beautiful mountains of the Okanogan Range, Cutthroat Peak offers spectacular views over Liberty Bell, Whistler, and surrounding pristine alpine lakes and spires. An array of possible pitches and descents for grade 5.8 and higher makes this route a great choice for intermediate climbers. Get a feel for the sweeping granite walls and climb a summit that is not to be missed!

Advanced Alpine Rock Climbing

The South Early Winter Spire offers plenty of opportunities for advanced and experienced climbers. The most popular route is the Direct East Buttress route, grade IV, 5.10+, that finishes with an unsurpassable view as you edge your way across a knife edge ridge with over 1,000 feet of exposure on either side. Some other possibilities are North Early Winter Spire or “Rebel Yell” Chianti Spire, offering perfect granite and great climbing in a beautiful alpine setting.

Juno Tower Clean Break

This is a serious two-day adventure with serious rewards. Rising 1500 feet above the valley, Juno offers solid, spectacular and sustained climbing for advanced climbers. Any experienced climber will appreciate the magnitude of undertaking a climb of Juno Tower’s Clean Break, especially after reaching the top and enjoying the spectacular views of the Wine Spires, and Liberty Bell Group surrounding it. Experience one of the finest multi-pitch routes at this grade in the US.

Get free trip brochure

Download Alpine Rock Climbing in Washington Pass Brochure

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Talk with us and let one of our adventure experts help you plan your perfect adventure.

Meet your guide

5.00

Jack Bynum

IAG Owner and Lead Guide

Jack Bynum, owner of Indigo Alpine Guides, has 10 years of experience guiding backcountry trips around the world. He has traveled over 20,000 miles by foot, sea, bike, kayak, raft, and skis, is the youngest person to ever solo Denali, and has put up first ascents on several Himalayan peaks.

Things to know

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 Washington, please refer to Washington State’s Official COVID-19 Site.

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!
What you get in this adventure:
- - A certified AMGA or IFMGA guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - Two days of alpine rock climbing
  - All technical climbing gear
What’s not included:
- - Transportation
  - Parking
  - Snacks and meals
  - Park permits for the North Cascades National Park
  - Guide gratuity — optional
Most of the trips are physically demanding, and your ability to enjoy the adventure depends on your health and fitness. Your trip will be more rewarding if you prepare for it in advance. Although rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength, alpine rock climbing does require a good level of fitness.

Climbers should have the ability to follow 5.5 – 5.11 rock depending on the itinerary, carry a light-weight pack and move steadily for 7-9 hours. There is a possibility of snow on the approach that may require ice axes and crampons, and exposed alpine rock. To ensure you have a fulfilling day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.
For alpine climbing in Washington Pass, climbers should know how to safely belay a lead climber, have the ability to “clean” traditional gear, rappel and be comfortable following mid-fifth class rock. If you have topped a minimum of 5.5, there are routes you can successfully complete with the help of a guide.

For intermediate to advanced alpine rock climbers, Washington Pass has loads of routes to spend the day on. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals. Let your guide plan the day so you can focus on developing your skills while climbing the classic routes. The more complex routes span from 5.8 – 5.11. You will have to carry a light-weight pack and move steadily for 7-9 hours. There is possibility of snow and exposed alpine rock on the approach that may require ice axes and crampons.

If you’ve never climbed before, we recommend taking an introduction to climbing course or spending a day with a guide learning the basics prior to booking this adventure. Let us know and we can arrange a custom day out with a guide for you.
All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:
- - Helmet
  - Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device and chalk bag
  - Ropes
  - Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)
  - Ice axe, steel crampons with anti-bot plates
  - Trekking poles
Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:
- - Fleece or wool hat
  - Neck gaiter
  - Hardshell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex or equivalent)
  - Lightweight wind shell
  - Down or synthetic jacket with hood
  - Long-sleeved base layer
  - Gloves
  - Long base layer pants (tights work well in the summer)
  - Hardshell pants
  - Softshell pants (wind-proof or wind-resistant)
  - Leg gaiters (ankle to mid calf height works best in summer)
  - Liner socks and wool socks
  - Mountaineering boots that work with crampons
  - Climbing shoes (available for rent)
  - Daypack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 20L backpack for a one day trip, 30-40L for multi-day trips)
  - Sunglasses or a visor hat
  - Water bottle or hydration pack
  - Food you can eat on-the-go
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, blister kit, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Camera — optional
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and prices:
- - The standard client to guide ratio is 2:1 and cost is per person. Costs per person will decrease as the group grows for private tours, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with a friend or a family member!
Rock climbing in Washington Pass can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
With 57hours, you benefit from both our own cancellation policy as well as that of the individual guiding service that delivers your adventure. All policies regarding cancellation will be clearly laid out by your guide after booking your adventure, but rest assured that our own cancellation policy will work on top of what is provided by your guide.

For this adventure, 57hours offers a Strict Cancellation Policy, which states:

If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to thirty (30) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the total amount paid when Booking. After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund.

For more information on terms and conditions, please visit our Terms of Service page.
To get to the Washington Pass, most people fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. From there you can rent a car. Travel east from Newhalem (Highway 20) for 44 miles until you reach the Washington Pass.

Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether it’s at their office or at the trailhead. Once you meet up and go over gear and safety considerations, it’s time to start your day of alpine climbing in Washington Pass.