Climb West Ridge of Forbidden Peak With Alpine Ascents
FOR 2020, AS PART OF COVID-19 REGULATIONS: Climbers will need to self drive until further notice. Further information will be sent upon sign up.
Forbidden Peak lies in the heart of the North Cascades and is one of the crown jewels of the region. Stunning glacier vistas, solid rock, and the sheer majesty and position of the peak combine to make this a truly memorable ascent. The aesthetic West Ridge, made famous by its inclusion in the book, “Fifty Classic Climbs of North America,” stands as one of the most coveted mountaineering objectives in the lower 48. After a short but demanding approach, climbers will utilize steep snow-climbing skills and put their rock climbing prowess to the test on this airy summit climb.
With a 2:1 climber-to-guide ratio, we offer a personal experience and hands-on training with an experienced guide team. This climb will teach climbers how to move quickly and efficiently through moderately technical terrain (rock and snow/ice) and improve rock climbing and steep snow movement skills. We will also review belaying, rappelling, knots, and rope management prior to the start of the climb.
This climb of the West Ridge of Forbidden Peak combined with the Intro to Alpine Rock Course is an outstanding Matterhorn prep course and highly recommended for those that can make the time.
Maximum team size: Four climbers with two guides.
EQUIPMENT & MEALS
Provided: All group climbing equipment, including climbing ropes, technical hardware, and tents; breakfasts and dinners on the mountain; transportation to and from the trailhead (from Alpine Ascents Seattle location).
Not provided: Personal equipment and lunches. You are responsible for all items on the Gear List.
The expedition was just unbelievable. I’ve never done anything like this, and the guides made it absolutely wonderful. The food was great, the teaching was great, and the guides really catered to our experience level. I’m already starting to think of what I can do next! -2019 Climber
Reading List
This is a highly recommended shortlist and we would be happy to pass on a longer reading list for those interested. These links will bounce to Amazon.com with reviews.
Mountaineering: Freedom of the Hills
Don Graydon (Ed.), Kurt Hanson (Ed.), Mountaineers Society, Mountaineers Books
Glacier Travel & Crevasse Rescue
Andy Selters, Mountaineers Books
The Illustrated Guide to Glacier Travel & Crevasse Rescue
Andy Tyson, Mike Clelland, Climbing Magazine
Training for the New Alpinism: A Manual for the Climber as Athlete
Steve House, Scott Johnston
Strengths are clearly the caliber of guides and the logistical planning. The guides are not only great mountaineers but great people – a pleasure to be with. The staff in Seattle is excellent – always ready to help and get whatever information you need.
