Climbing and Caving
"National forest mountain climbing" refers to the activity of climbing mountains located within a US National Forest, offering various levels of difficulty across different regions, with popular climbing areas across our national forest and grasslands. Always check local regulations and permit requirements before climbing in any national forest.
North Cascades Mountains are often referred as the “American Alps” by professional climbers for their massive glaciated volcanoes that span across the range. Because of its rugged approaches, exceptional alpine terrain, and unrivaled scenery, it is a premiere training ground for climbers.
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Boulder Glacier Climbing Route
The approach along the Boulder Ridge Trail is difficult because the trail is only maintained about two miles to the wilderness boundary. From that point, the trail is steep, muddy and hard to follow,…
Coleman Glacier Climbing Route
The Coleman route is the most popular route on Mt. Baker. Begin three miles along the Heliotrope Ridge Trail 677, in old growth forest and climb through flower-filled avalanche chutes and over rocky…
Easton Glacier Climbing Route
Begin in the Mt. Baker National Recreation Area in Schreiber’s Meadow along Park Butte Trail, which is heavily used by climbers, backpackers, dayhikers and stock riders. Wander through waist-high…
Mt. Baker Summit - Climbing
The most prominent feature of the Mt. Baker Wilderness is the 10,781 foot [3,286 meters] active volcano from which the wilderness takes its name. Mt. Baker is the northernmost volcano in the United…
North Ridge Climbing Route
The North Ridge Route, like the Coleman Glacier Route, begins three miles along the Heliotrope  Ridge Trail, starting in old growth forest and climbing through flower filled avalanche chutes and…
Park Glacier Climbing Route
This is the longest climb of the northern approaches. Start five miles in from Artist Point Trailhead by taking Chain Lakes Trail 682 to Ptarmigan Ridge Trail 682.1. Three miles in from the Chain…
Squak Climbing Route
Begin in the Mt. Baker National Recreation Area at the Park Butte Trail 603 and junction off to the Scott Paul Trail 603.1 after 100 feet from the trailhead. Climb through lush green forest and…