Mount Shuksan Fisher Chimneys Climb

Climb Mount Shuksan Fisher Chimneys With Alpine Ascents

We had a fantastic time on the Fisher Chimneys route on Mount Shuksan. The route itself was a great challenge for me physically and mentally. It was something that I trained very hard for, so I was thankful to be successful in reaching the summit.

As usual, Alpine Ascents far exceeded my expectations for the trip. The guides were all next level impressive and it was amazing to be able to watch them in action and also learn from them along with the way. I couldn’t recommend the trip more!

The Fisher Chimneys route on Mount Shuksan (9,127’), originally named Ch’ésqen stands as one of the finest mountaineering objectives in the North Cascades, requiring a variety of alpine climbing techniques. This new four-day instructional course/summit is a perfect introduction to alpine mixed climbing and intermediate mountaineering that we developed for graduates of our six day mountaineering program. Climbers will utilize rock climbing skills, steep snow climbing, technical cramponing and glacier travel skills on route to the stunning summit pyramid. The 4 Day Mount Shuksan Fisher Chimney Climb combined with the Intro to Alpine Rock Climbing is an outstanding Matterhorn Prep Course and highly recommended for those that can make the time.

The Fisher Chimneys Route is longer and more challenging than the standard Sulphide Glacier route and our four day program offers an itinerary that blends instruction with an exciting intermediate objective. 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 spend a full day reviewing belaying, rappelling, knots, climbing techniques, and rope management prior to the climb. Our goal is to create well-rounded alpine climbers who are ready to tackle more technical objectives.

Mt. Shuksan is an immense and aesthetically magnificent mountain, the most iconic in the North Cascades. Climbers can expect world class views of Mount Baker and sweeping panoramas of the seemingly endless peaks of the Cascades. From the stunning approach hike into Lake Anne, to the fun and moderate rock climbing in the Fisher Chimneys, the climb is engaging and exciting right from the start. The thrills only increase higher on the mountain. Climbers must navigate glaciers with gaping crevasses, surmount a pitch or two of steep snow, and finally climb the airy and spectacular summit pyramid to the top.  With a 2:1 climber-to-guide ratio, we offer a personal experience and hands-on training with an experienced guide team.

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.

Not provided: Transportation, personal equipment, and lunches. You are responsible for all items on the Gear List.

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

The leadership of our two guides was outstanding. They acted as teachers, guides, and climbing partners in a way that encouraged us to climb a challenging route with safety and joy.

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