Climbing Mount Baker
United States
Mount Baker, located in the North Cascades of Washington state, is an impressive peak that beckons seasoned mountaineers with its remote location and challenging climbs. Rising to an elevation of 10,781 feet, this dormant volcano offers a variety of routes, each promising its own unique set of challenges. The most popular ascent is via the Coleman-Deming route, offering a mix of glacier travel and technical navigation. The weather conditions can be unpredictable, requiring climbers to be well-prepared and adaptable. The mountain's snow and ice conditions can change rapidly, so it demands respect and readiness for a variety of alpine conditions.
For those seeking a more technical challenge, the North Ridge of Mount Baker provides an engaging climb with steep ice pitches and intricate route finding. The route is renowned for its striking seracs and crevasses, which require a good command of ice climbing techniques and a solid understanding of glacier travel. The North Ridge is often less crowded than the Coleman-Deming, offering a more solitary experience for those who prefer to move at their own pace. It's a route that tests your skills and endurance, rewarding climbers with breathtaking views and a true sense of achievement upon reaching the summit.
Conditions on Mount Baker can be quite variable, with weather patterns shifting quickly. It's essential to check forecasts and conditions regularly, and to be prepared for sudden changes. The mountain is not just about technical skills; it also demands good judgment and the ability to respond to the unpredictable nature of alpine environments. With its combination of challenging routes, stunning vistas, and the allure of a remote wilderness, Mount Baker stands as a worthy objective for experienced mountaineers. There are currently 18 guides who offer expeditions and climbs on this formidable peak.
Difficulty
- PD: Not very hard (alpine grade 2)
These are pictures taken while climbing Mount Baker. They're shown here to give you an idea of what the route is like. You're welcome to share your own pictures of mountaineering Mount Baker, to help the community of climbers. Picture here are either uploaded by members (there own, or creative commons pictures), or guides.
Guide links
Mount Baker History
Climbing history of Mount Baker
Mount Baker, known as Koma Kulshan to the indigenous Lummi people, has a rich history of exploration and summit attempts. The mountain has long held spiritual significance for indigenous tribes in the region. European exploration began in the late 18th century, with the first recorded sighting by Spanish explorers in 1790.
Early attempts to summit Mount Baker were marked by intrigue and challenge. The first recorded ascent was achieved in August 1868 by Edmund T. Coleman, an Englishman, along with four companions. Their climb, via the Coleman Glacier, marked a significant milestone in the exploration of the North Cascades.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Mount Baker became a popular destination for climbers and adventurers. The mountain's accessibility from nearby settlements and its dramatic glaciated terrain attracted both amateur and experienced mountaineers. Each ascent contributed to the growing body of knowledge about the mountain's geography and climbing routes.
These climbs are similar in length, difficulty, and elevation. Offering a similar level of challenge as the Mount Baker climb.
