What you get on this adventure: An experienced, AMGA local alpine guide with extensive knowledge of the area 4 days of glacier travel and crevasse rescue instruction and Mt Baker summit attempt Group camping and technical equipment Northwest National Forest pass What’s not included: Transportation to Seattle Accommodation in Sedro-Woolley or Burlington before and after the tour Meals Travel and medical/rescue insurance — highly recommended Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

To participate in the Mt. Baker glacier travel course, a very good level of fitness is essential. Participants should be able to hike 8-10 miles, climbing 2,500 – 3,500 vertical feet throughout the course of the day. In the weeks leading up to the course, participants should engage in strength training and aerobic exercises to enhance their fitness level. This preparation will contribute to your overall enjoyment and success on the course. The course is designed for those looking to develop essential technical skills for independent rope team travel in crevassed terrain. While prior climbing experience can certainly expedite your mastery of rope management skills, it’s not a strict requirement. Familiarity with essential equipment like crampons and a mountain axe is advantageous, and having some previous experience with backcountry camping will also prove useful for the journey. It’s important to note that climbing Mt. Baker is a challenging endeavor, but safety is of paramount importance. Your expert guide, who is well-versed in glacier travel and mountaineering, will be there to prepare you for the ascent. They will assess your skills, teach you new techniques, and closely observe your progress to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

What do I need to bring?

For technical equipment , you need to bring: 50-60L mountaineering backpack (with a crampon pouch and ice axe attachment points) Helmet (designed for climbing and mountaineering) Harness (climbing harness with a belay loop) Standard mountain axe Crampons (make sure they are compatible with your boots) Belay/rappel device (ATC-style belay device) Four locking carabiners Sling (120 cm in length) Pulley (Petzl Micro Traxion and Tibloc) — optional For clothing , you need to bring: Sun hoody (lightweight synthetic fabric, long sleeves, hoody) Fleece (thin, worn over sun hoody on colder days, no pockets, not a jacket) Softshell jacket (worn over fleece, cuts wind and light precipitation, hooded, no insulation) Hardshell jacket (fully waterproof, for deteriorating conditions) Puffy jacket (800+ fill down, hooded, for high altitudes or cold conditions) Long underwear bottoms (synthetic or merino wool, thick or thin depending on trip) Softshell pants (comfortable, lighter colors for heat absorption) Hardshell pants (full-length zippers on sides, for easy on/off over boots) Synthetic puffy pants (optional based on trip conditions, full side zippers) Gloves Thin gloves (weather-resistant, for aerobic activities in cool to cold climates) Medium-weight gloves (more insulation, less dexterity) Heavy-weight gloves or mittens (for summit mornings or extreme cold) Footwear (choose one) 3-season mountaineering boots (3⁄4 or full-shank, not well-insulated for winter) 4-season mountaineering boots (Full-shank winter boots, well-insulated with gaiter) Double boots (warmer and heavier, fully removable liner, for sub-zero temps) Sunglasses (dark lenses with side shields for snow activities, photochromatic lenses recommended) Buff or neck gaiter (lightweight synthetic material, SPF-rated) Baseball cap or visor (for sun protection) For personal camping equipment , you need to bring: Inflatable sleeping pad (check R-value for insulation, suitable for snow camping) Down sleeping bag (choose rating based on objective and season, warmer and more compressible, 20°F range is ideal for summer mountaineering, adjust based on personal temperature preferences) Other personal items you need to bring are: Water bottles (2L capacity) Sunscreen Toiletries Personal medication Given the unpredictable weather conditions and the demanding technical aspects of ascending Mt Baker, ensuring you have the specified equipment is paramount. Mt Baker in July can experience varying weather patterns, with temperatures ranging from 40°F (4°C) during the day to as low as 20°F (-6°C) at night. Snow and rain are not uncommon, and high winds can be challenging. Ahead of your expedition, you’ll have the opportunity to consult with your guide regarding the gear list.

Can I rent equipment?

Before embarking on this adventure, you’ll have the opportunity to have a comprehensive discussion about the gear list with your guide. If you find that you’re missing any of the required equipment, your guide will explore alternative options with you. Please note that rental directly from your guide is not possible. On Day 1 of the trip, your group will go to an equipment store in Seattle where you can rent or purchase any necessary items following a thorough gear check. This ensures that you’re well-equipped and prepared for the journey ahead.

What about the meals?

Meals during the Mt Baker glacier travel course are not included in the tour price. On the first and the last days of the adventure, participants enjoy dinners at a restaurant conveniently located at their accommodation. Additionally, on Day 1, your group will stock up on provisions for the journey to Mt Baker. These meals primarily comprise freeze-dried options, energy bars, nuts, and other snacks of your choice to keep you fueled and energized throughout the expedition. While camping, you’ll also have access to group cooking equipment, ensuring that you can prepare warm and satisfying meals during your stay in the mountains.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For this group adventure, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is 5:1. It takes a minimum of 3 people for this tour to operate. The cost per person decreases as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to hike with friends and family The Mt Baker summit and glacier travel course can be arranged for larger and for private groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 are not permitted to join the course.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to Seattle, the starting point of the tour, most people fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport . You will meet your guide and fellow mountaineers there. The precise meeting time on Day 1 will vary depending on the arrival of group members but typically falls within the morning to late afternoon timeframe. Afterward, you will all go to either Burlington or Sedro-Wolley, where you will spend the night before heading to Mt Baker.

Safety measures on Mount Baker, WA

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more. Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans. We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to. If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!

Mount Baker Glacier Travel and Crevasse Rescue Course.

A mountaineer honing in on their glacier travel skills in the glacial terrain of Mount Baker.

A mountaineer navigating steep glacial terrain on Mount Baker, WA.

A snowy, icy expanse on Mt Baker with three mountaineers in the middle of it.

Rugged, bare mountain terrain near the summit of Mount Baker, seen while descending it.

Three mountaineers seen from the distance on Mount Baker navigating a large, snowy expanse.

Seattle-Tacoma Airport and planes seen from the distance.

A mountaineer near the summit of Mt Baker.

A campsite at the foot of Mt Baker seen at dusk, with a glowing tent.

Two happy mountaineers in full gear posing for a photo on Mount Baker.

MOUNT BAKER | WASHINGTON

Climb Mt Baker: Glacier Travel & Crevasse Rescue Course

5.00 ()

Season

July

Nearest city

Seattle is the starting point of the adventure

Duration

6 days

Difficulty

Guides

Max Lurie, Alpine to the Max

From $2,575 () / 6 days

Got any questions? or Talk with us

Overview
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Reviews
Things to know

Ready to climb the icy giant of the Pacific Northwest? Join this 6-day Mount Baker glacier travel course and unleash your inner alpine adventurer! At 10,781 feet, Mount Baker reigns supreme in the North Cascades, inviting mountaineers of all stripes to explore its glacier-clad majesty. With expert guidance from an AMGA alpine guide famous for his experiential learning method, you’ll dive into the art of glacier travel, rope mastery, crevasse rescue, and alpine navigation. Get hands-on experience, build unshakable confidence, and emerge as a mountaineer capable of independent travel. Get ready to ascend Mount Baker and skyrocket your mountaineering prowess!

Book a call

Intimate learning environment

Discover glacier travel and crevasse rescue in a small, supportive group, ensuring personalized attention
Hands-on learning

Acquire essential alpine skills through practical, real-life scenarios and become a more independent mountaineer
Awe-Inspiring natural beauty

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking glacial landscapes of Mt Baker while mastering mountaineering skills

Itinerary

Embark on a thrilling 6-day adventure on Mt Baker. Starting in Seattle, you'll head into the backcountry for hands-on training. Over four days, master essential glacier travel and crevasse rescue skills with an expert AMGA alpine guide. Your journey culminates with a Mount Baker summit attempt. Group camping and technical equipment are provided, along with a Northwest National Forest pass. Leave the mountain with newfound skills and unforgettable memories that will last for years to come.

Your adventure begins in Seattle, where you’ll meet the team. Kick things off with a comprehensive gear check to make sure everyone is fully prepared for the upcoming journey. Your seasoned guide will offer expert advice on any last-minute equipment needs, and you may visit REI and Feathered Friends for any necessary purchases. Following preparations, embark on a scenic drive to Sedro-Woolley or Burlington, where you’ll check into your accommodation. This evening, your group will also stock up on the food for the upcoming expedition.
Rise and shine to a hearty breakfast before heading to the trailhead, the starting point of your adventure. As you begin the hike to the campsite, take in the breathtaking views and get ready for the exciting days that lie ahead.
Today is dedicated to training and skill-building. Your Mt Baker alpine guide will take your group onto the glacier for hands-on practice in rope travel, snow anchors, and crevasse rescue techniques. You’ll receive comprehensive, full-day instruction to ensure you’re well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
The moment you’ve been preparing for has arrived. Today, you’ll make your summit attempt. With determination and the support of your Mt Baker guide, push your limits and strive to achieve your climbing goals.
After a successful climb and reaching new heights, descend from the mountain and return to the hotel for a well-deserved rest. Reflect on your accomplishments as you unwind and recharge. Celebrate your achievements with your guide and fellow mountaineers over dinner in town!
After breakfast, it’s time to leave. Transportation will be arranged to the airport, where you’ll depart with cherished memories and newfound mountaineering skills that will last a lifetime. Say goodbye to your guide and to the Pacific Northwest—or continue touring on your own.

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Meet your guides

5.00

Max Lurie

Max Lurie's journey has taken him to some of the world's most challenging terrains in pursuit of his love for the mountains. Through Alpine to the Max, he delivers tailor-made climbing education and mountain experiences, extending across the breathtaking landscapes of the Colorado Front Range and beyond. What sets Max apart is his commitment to creating a personalized climbing instruction that aligns perfectly with your goals, objectives, and existing skill level. With Max as your guide, your climbing adventures are not just memorable; they are uniquely yours.

5.00

Alpine to the Max

Alpine to the Max, founded by Max Lurie, is Colorado's premier climbing guide service, dedicated to experiential education and mountain safety. Offering customized climbing instruction, the company emphasizes mentorship and a safe learning environment. With a commitment to environmental stewardship, Alpine to the Max explores mountain landscapes while helping clients develop skills for independent climbing journeys. The mission is to share and inspire mountaincraft through experiential education, fostering strong personal connections and lifelong climbing careers.

5.00 (5 reviews)

Hamid Ghanadan (source: Google Reviews )

Max has been my instructor and guide for many years, and I’m so grateful to have had such a fantastic mentor in how to safely interact with the beautiful environments that mountaineering and rock climbing brings. I first met Max during a week-long introductory course to mountaineering, and was immediately taken by his philosophy of bringing safety and fun together. Max is extremely knowledgeable, patient, diligent, and fun. His enthusiasm for mountaineering is infectious, and continues to be my mentor in mountaineering.

Claire Minniear (source: Google Reviews )

Breaking into the climbing/mountaineering world can be intimidating and daunting. Even if you are an avid hiker already. Max was incredible when it came to providing background knowledge of the sport, knowledge regarding different terrains that you may encounter, instruction on how to use gear, and how to move more efficiently on uneven terrain. When looking for a guide (especially when practicing mountaineering skills) I look for someone who 1.) is knowledgeable 2.) will give me the tools that I need to succeed 3.) I feel safe with. Max checked all of the boxes and I walked away with a ton of knowledge and feeling more confident in my skills. I will continue to reach out to Max!

Rustom Chowna (source: Google Reviews )

Max was an absolutely top-class mountain guide and safely got us to the summit and back. The technical aspect of the climb was a first for us and somewhat out of our comfort zone, but Max was an excellent teacher and was always encouraging and helpful. It was a wonderful and exhilarating experience which I will not be forgetting anytime soon.

Sean Colvin (source: Google Reviews )

Max is a fantastic guide and educator. He’s knowledgeable, patient, fun and always keeps the stoke high! Could not recommend him highly enough.

Eric Cunningham (source: Google Reviews )

Max is a great guide! Super informative and experienced, but down to earth and genuinely loves this stuff. Knows how to prioritize safety without sacrificing fun. Can’t recommend him enough

Things to know

What you get on this adventure:
- - An experienced, AMGA local alpine guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 4 days of glacier travel and crevasse rescue instruction and Mt Baker summit attempt
  - Group camping and technical equipment
  - Northwest National Forest pass
What’s not included:
- - Transportation to Seattle
  - Accommodation in Sedro-Woolley or Burlington before and after the tour
  - Meals
  - Travel and medical/rescue insurance — highly recommended
  - Guide gratuities — optional
To participate in the Mt. Baker glacier travel course, a very good level of fitness is essential. Participants should be able to hike 8-10 miles, climbing 2,500 – 3,500 vertical feet throughout the course of the day. In the weeks leading up to the course, participants should engage in strength training and aerobic exercises to enhance their fitness level. This preparation will contribute to your overall enjoyment and success on the course.

The course is designed for those looking to develop essential technical skills for independent rope team travel in crevassed terrain. While prior climbing experience can certainly expedite your mastery of rope management skills, it’s not a strict requirement. Familiarity with essential equipment like crampons and a mountain axe is advantageous, and having some previous experience with backcountry camping will also prove useful for the journey.

It’s important to note that climbing Mt. Baker is a challenging endeavor, but safety is of paramount importance. Your expert guide, who is well-versed in glacier travel and mountaineering, will be there to prepare you for the ascent. They will assess your skills, teach you new techniques, and closely observe your progress to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
For technical equipment, you need to bring:
- - 50-60L mountaineering backpack (with a crampon pouch and ice axe attachment points)
  - Helmet (designed for climbing and mountaineering)
  - Harness (climbing harness with a belay loop)
  - Standard mountain axe
  - Crampons (make sure they are compatible with your boots)
  - Belay/rappel device (ATC-style belay device)
  - Four locking carabiners
  - Sling (120 cm in length)
  - Pulley (Petzl Micro Traxion and Tibloc) — optional
For clothing, you need to bring:
- - Sun hoody (lightweight synthetic fabric, long sleeves, hoody)
  - Fleece (thin, worn over sun hoody on colder days, no pockets, not a jacket)
  - Softshell jacket (worn over fleece, cuts wind and light precipitation, hooded, no insulation)
  - Hardshell jacket (fully waterproof, for deteriorating conditions)
  - Puffy jacket (800+ fill down, hooded, for high altitudes or cold conditions)
  - Long underwear bottoms (synthetic or merino wool, thick or thin depending on trip)
  - Softshell pants (comfortable, lighter colors for heat absorption)
  - Hardshell pants (full-length zippers on sides, for easy on/off over boots)
  - Synthetic puffy pants (optional based on trip conditions, full side zippers)
  - Gloves
    
    Thin gloves (weather-resistant, for aerobic activities in cool to cold climates)
    
    Medium-weight gloves (more insulation, less dexterity)
    
    Heavy-weight gloves or mittens (for summit mornings or extreme cold)
  - Footwear (choose one)
    
    3-season mountaineering boots (3⁄4 or full-shank, not well-insulated for winter)
    
    4-season mountaineering boots (Full-shank winter boots, well-insulated with gaiter)
    
    Double boots (warmer and heavier, fully removable liner, for sub-zero temps)
  - Sunglasses (dark lenses with side shields for snow activities, photochromatic lenses recommended)
  - Buff or neck gaiter (lightweight synthetic material, SPF-rated)
  - Baseball cap or visor (for sun protection)
For personal camping equipment, you need to bring:
- - Inflatable sleeping pad (check R-value for insulation, suitable for snow camping)
  - Down sleeping bag (choose rating based on objective and season, warmer and more compressible, 20°F range is ideal for summer mountaineering, adjust based on personal temperature preferences)
Other personal items you need to bring are:
- - Water bottles (2L capacity)
  - Sunscreen
  - Toiletries
  - Personal medication
Given the unpredictable weather conditions and the demanding technical aspects of ascending Mt Baker, ensuring you have the specified equipment is paramount. Mt Baker in July can experience varying weather patterns, with temperatures ranging from 40°F (4°C) during the day to as low as 20°F (-6°C) at night. Snow and rain are not uncommon, and high winds can be challenging. Ahead of your expedition, you’ll have the opportunity to consult with your guide regarding the gear list.
Before embarking on this adventure, you’ll have the opportunity to have a comprehensive discussion about the gear list with your guide. If you find that you’re missing any of the required equipment, your guide will explore alternative options with you.

Please note that rental directly from your guide is not possible. On Day 1 of the trip, your group will go to an equipment store in Seattle where you can rent or purchase any necessary items following a thorough gear check. This ensures that you’re well-equipped and prepared for the journey ahead.
Meals during the Mt Baker glacier travel course are not included in the tour price.

On the first and the last days of the adventure, participants enjoy dinners at a restaurant conveniently located at their accommodation.

Additionally, on Day 1, your group will stock up on provisions for the journey to Mt Baker. These meals primarily comprise freeze-dried options, energy bars, nuts, and other snacks of your choice to keep you fueled and energized throughout the expedition. While camping, you’ll also have access to group cooking equipment, ensuring that you can prepare warm and satisfying meals during your stay in the mountains.
Group sizes and prices:
- - For this group adventure, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is 5:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 3 people for this tour to operate.
  - The cost per person decreases as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to hike with friends and family
The Mt Baker summit and glacier travel course can be arranged for larger and for private groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 are not permitted to join the course.
To get to Seattle, the starting point of the tour, most people fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. You will meet your guide and fellow mountaineers there. The precise meeting time on Day 1 will vary depending on the arrival of group members but typically falls within the morning to late afternoon timeframe.

Afterward, you will all go to either Burlington or Sedro-Wolley, where you will spend the night before heading to Mt Baker.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more.

Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans.

We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to.

If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!
A 30% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 3 months (90 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.
- - 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 full refund minus a 5% processing fee.
  - For cancellations twenty-nine (29) to fifteen (15) calendar days in advance, 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. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.
  - In the event of unfavorable weather conditions or other circumstances affecting scheduled activities, flexible solutions are available: rescheduling your adventure for the earliest suitable date, based on availability and operational considerations, or opting for a credit for the full amount paid, valid for one year from the original date, usable for future bookings. If neither rescheduling nor credit suits your needs, a refund for the affected portion of the service will be provided.