A three day schedule on Shasta is a more enjoyable approach to climbing this Cascade peak, as well it gives us other route options as conditions dictate. We will employ the classic expedition style as we make our way up the mountain. Each day will include snow school where we learn and practice appropriate mountain skills. We will select a route that is in optimal condition and allows for safe and enjoyable climbing. The route will most likely be Avalanche Gulch. We may choose to climb The West Face or Clear Creek depending on conditions.
Dates: April 30-May 2 May 14-16, 22-24, 28-30, 29-31 June 4-6, 8-10, 18-20, 22-24 July 2-4, 6-8, 16-18, 20-22, 23-25, 30-August 1 August 6-8, 13-15, 20-22, 27-29 Or by special arrangement Fee: $595
There is no prior experience requred to climb Mt. Shasta. We will teach you the necessary skills during our snow school sessions while on the mountain. The biggest requirement is good fitness and regular training. It is not necessary to climb with an adult and we climb every year with pople 14-17 years old.
Hi,
My son has been talking about climbing Shasta for a long time, and he's still only 12. He managed Halfdome in one day last summer, barely, when he was still 11. Is he old enough to consider Shasta? Do you suggest a minimum age?
Thanks,
Steve
Hello,
What is the itinerary for your three day Mount Shasta Climb. I'm looking for information on estimated climbing time for each of the three days, altitude gain for each day and info on camp for the 1st and 2nd night. Also, is there an option for glissading down a portion of the descent on Summit day? I heard this was possible on Mount Shasta..
Thanks much
Dave Smith
My husband and I are interested in summit shasta this year. Either of us have experience but are in great shape for our 40's. Any reading material or advise to help up prepare for our goal.
Hello Peg, thanks for the message. It is good to read and be prepared. Both the Mt Shasta Book and Mountaineering: Freedom of the Hills are good reference materials.
Threre is plenty of narratives and first hand accounts to motivate you as well.
Make sure your training program is dedicated and intense, this is a difficult climb! Good luck!
1. I've never climbed a mountain or even gone on a long hike before. I do, however, work out regularly. Do I need to start training differently if I want to climb Shasta and if so, what do you recommend?
2. Do you provide all equipment for the climb, boots, tents, sleeping bags, etc.? If no, what are the participants expected to bring?
Rob
By Anonymous (not verified) at Jan 1 2010 - 7:36am
Yes, you do have to train specifically for this climb. Best is to get out as frequent as possible and hike hills with a loaded backpackpack (25-35 lbs). Look for as much vertical gain as you can find in your area and consider multiple laps. This along with your regualr work outs will prepare your legs and core for the challenges of mountaineering. Focus on cardiovascular, strength, flexibility, and core training.
We provide all of the group and logistic gear; tents, kitchen and main meals (guides will cook), ropes, harnesses, passes and permits, guides and instruction. Each climber is responsible for their own personal equipment including clothing, boots, crampons, ice ax, helmet, bakpack, sleeping bag and pad. These items (except clothing) can be rented here locally. Send me an email and I will send a copy of the equipment list and itinerary. -Chris
Hi,
I think it might a bit late for this year but I would like to climb Shasta once. I did it once and got ~300 meters (linear) from the summit when a thunderstorm came so we bailed out :D. Still, I am climbing very high volcanoes in the Andes (close to 20,000 ft) since 2002 - see webpage - and I am preparing for one that is close to 22,000 ft. I thought that it might be a good time to use Shasta as a training ground for this one. I also used crampons only once so, while I know how to climb volcanoes and very much respect the mountain, I am definitely not an expert in ice work. I enjoyed my first try on Shasta -with crampons - but that was my only time. There is very little ice in the Andes. My questions then to you: Is this too late for this year? What are the sizes of the groups? Is it possibly to have a personal guide? Best wishes,
Nathalie
Thanks for the message, it's not too late this year for climbing Shasta. The north side routes are in great shape still and would be a great climb for your training for the Andes. Our group size maximum is 10 people total (including guides) You can arrange for a private trip on the dates of your choice if you like as well. Please contact us with any other questions at all. We hope you can join us on Shasta! -Chris
Greetings from Vermont,
I am possibly thinking about surprising my husband with a trip with you. How late can we sign up? We were thinking of an August trip.
Thanks,
Loralyn
By Loralyn (not verified) at Apr 17 2009 - 12:02pm
August has great conditions on the northeast side of Shasta. We guide this in a three day itinerary. In order to guarantee your first choice of dates, you should register by mid May. You can register on our website or over the phone whichever you prefer. We do have gift certificates available as well. Thanks! -Chris
Hi, I was planning on booking the July 3-5th trip. What is the itinerary? When should I fly/drive in? What time do we start on the 3rd? I know you have said to plan on spending the night on the 5th. Thanks.
Tammy, I have emailed you a copy of the itinerary. We will meet at 9:00am on the first morning of the climb at the Fifth Season in the town of Mount Shasta. It is best to arrive the day prior to the climb to prepare and organize gear, etc. Please let us know if you have any other questions at all. Cheers, -Chris
Equipment inquiry
Hi:
I saw the list of required gear listed on the website and have some additional questions regarding specifications. Do the ski poles need to be telescoping or are rigid poles OK ? Is there a 'rule of thumb' regarding length of ice axe (I'm 6ft) ?
Thanks.
Adjustable poles are preferred for mountaineering. As a rule of thumb, the spike of the ice ax should be at your ankle bone when you hold the ice ax by your side. For someone 6' tall this means a 70-75cm ax. Cheers, -Chris
I am planning to climb the avalanch gulch route in late April this year. Your guided hikes commence in May. Are the conditions in April too unpredictable or dangerous?
Thanks for your message. We have learned over the last 30 years on Shasta that conditons are most favorable for a summit climb from May-July for the Avalanche Gulch route. April can be good weather, however it can also be very wintery conditions with cold temps, snow storms, and avalanche hazard possible. So yes, the conditions can be too unpredictable and potentially dangerous. Please let us know if you would like to discuss this in greater detail. Cheers, -Chris
I had a total hip replacement in June/08. Any forseeable problems here for me or maybe you have restrictions on this. I went skiing and snowmobiling in Wyoming in January of this year as well as rock diving(jumping) in Hawaii last week. Just wondering about the long days of hiking though. I've done Mt. Whitney (the Mountaineers Route)dealing with the scree and altitude however this was before my surgery. Commments please.
By tony washer (not verified) at Feb 22 2009 - 1:48pm
The physical challenge of climbing Mount Shasta should not be underestimated. This will be similar to Whitney in duration and intensity, although quite different in terrain. We climb snow and ice on Shasta and wear crampons and use ice axes. This will be very demanding and challenging, with a total elevation gain/loss of greater than 7,000'. I am not able to judge if you are able to complete this with your recent surgery, best to seek advice from your doctor. Please contact us if you would like to discuss this further.
Okay I climbed this mountain years ago and was told that the summit was 14,132 ft. Now I am being told it is somewhere from 14,163 ft. to 14,180 ft. What is the exact elevation?
The USGS recently recalculated the height of Mount Shasta. The official elevation is 14,179', you may have to come climb again now that it's taller! Cheers, -Chris
May i get a list of equipment needed to do a summit climb.Myself along with two of my brothers are planning to climb in june of 09 and are just trying to get a handle on the gear we will need. thank you.
How far in advance do your trips fill. My son is at the Naval Academy and will not know his summer schedule until mid to late spring. We want to do the climb together.
Diane
Thanks for your inquiry. There will be dates available for you and your son to climb. You may not have your first choice, but there will be openings for a climb together.
It is possible to attempt a summit climb in March, however it can be very wintry conditions at that time. We often receive major snow storms in March. Snow is deep and the temps can be frigid. Skiing is fabulous, but a summit is a very challenging undertaking. You should have prior mountain experience to consider this. Please call or email to discuss this further.
We can schedule a climb on the north side in September. In October the climbing conditions and weather are poor and variable, we do not offer climbs for that reason.
I just reserved a spot on the Memorial Day weekend climb. When will I get a list of required equipment? I have the one you've posted on the FAQ - is it any different from that list?
You will receive email confirmation with the information you requested. If you send an email I can send a copy of the equipment list as well. We look forward to climbing with you. -Chris
If you let us know your email, we will gladly send a long a required equipment list. Winter climbs are on a private schedule, we would be happy to discuss options with you for the holidays. Cheers, -Chris
We usually return to the trailhead between 5:00 and 7:00 pm on the last day of the expedition style summit climb. We generally recommend that folks spend the night in Mt Shasta after the climb, you will probably be pretty tired.
Shasta is perfect for new climbers, no prior climbing experince is necessary. Although you should be in good shape and training, Shasta is a big challenge! You do not need to climb with an adult if you are under 18.
Will my old Danner backpacking boots be adequate or do I need to go out and buy a new pair of mountaineering/climbing boots. The Danners are a sturdy pair of full-grain leather boots with a vibram sole.
Backpaking and hiking boots are generally not adequate for climbing Mt Shasta. We need a mountaineering boot that will accept a crampon. Most of our climbers rent this boot as it not something that you will use frequently. The Fifth Season in Mount Shasta has an excellent selection of rental boots and equipment. I would recommend renting a climbing boot for the ascent.
A three day schedule on Shasta is a more enjoyable approach to climbing this Cascade peak, as well it gives us other route options as conditions dictate. We will employ the classic expedition style as we make our way up the mountain. Each day will include snow school where we learn and practice appropriate mountain skills. We will select a route that is in optimal condition and allows for safe and enjoyable climbing. The route will most likely be Avalanche Gulch. We may choose to climb The West Face or Clear Creek depending on conditions.
Do we need any climbing
There is no prior experience
There is no prior experience requred to climb Mt. Shasta. We will teach you the necessary skills during our snow school sessions while on the mountain. The biggest requirement is good fitness and regular training. It is not necessary to climb with an adult and we climb every year with pople 14-17 years old.
Hi, My son has been talking
Our age minimum is 14 years
Our age minimum is 14 years for our summit climbs. Please feel free to call and we can discuss the climb and options. 530-926-3117
Hello, What is the
My husband and I are
Hello Peg, thanks for the
Hello Peg, thanks for the message. It is good to read and be prepared. Both the Mt Shasta Book and Mountaineering: Freedom of the Hills are good reference materials.
Threre is plenty of narratives and first hand accounts to motivate you as well.
Make sure your training program is dedicated and intense, this is a difficult climb! Good luck!
1. I've never climbed a
Hi Rob, good questions.
Hi Rob, good questions.
Yes, you do have to train specifically for this climb. Best is to get out as frequent as possible and hike hills with a loaded backpackpack (25-35 lbs). Look for as much vertical gain as you can find in your area and consider multiple laps. This along with your regualr work outs will prepare your legs and core for the challenges of mountaineering. Focus on cardiovascular, strength, flexibility, and core training.
We provide all of the group and logistic gear; tents, kitchen and main meals (guides will cook), ropes, harnesses, passes and permits, guides and instruction. Each climber is responsible for their own personal equipment including clothing, boots, crampons, ice ax, helmet, bakpack, sleeping bag and pad. These items (except clothing) can be rented here locally. Send me an email and I will send a copy of the equipment list and itinerary. -Chris
Hi, I think it might a bit
Nathalie, Thanks for the
Nathalie,
Thanks for the message, it's not too late this year for climbing Shasta. The north side routes are in great shape still and would be a great climb for your training for the Andes. Our group size maximum is 10 people total (including guides) You can arrange for a private trip on the dates of your choice if you like as well. Please contact us with any other questions at all. We hope you can join us on Shasta! -Chris
Greetings from Vermont, I
Hello Loralyn, August
Hello Loralyn,
August has great conditions on the northeast side of Shasta. We guide this in a three day itinerary. In order to guarantee your first choice of dates, you should register by mid May. You can register on our website or over the phone whichever you prefer. We do have gift certificates available as well. Thanks! -Chris
Hi, I was planning on
Tammy, I have emailed you a
Tammy, I have emailed you a copy of the itinerary. We will meet at 9:00am on the first morning of the climb at the Fifth Season in the town of Mount Shasta. It is best to arrive the day prior to the climb to prepare and organize gear, etc. Please let us know if you have any other questions at all. Cheers, -Chris
Equipment inquiry Hi: I saw
Adjustable poles are
Adjustable poles are preferred for mountaineering. As a rule of thumb, the spike of the ice ax should be at your ankle bone when you hold the ice ax by your side. For someone 6' tall this means a 70-75cm ax. Cheers, -Chris
I am planning to climb the
Hi Dave, Thanks for your
Hi Dave,
Thanks for your message. We have learned over the last 30 years on Shasta that conditons are most favorable for a summit climb from May-July for the Avalanche Gulch route. April can be good weather, however it can also be very wintery conditions with cold temps, snow storms, and avalanche hazard possible. So yes, the conditions can be too unpredictable and potentially dangerous. Please let us know if you would like to discuss this in greater detail. Cheers, -Chris
I had a total hip
Tony, The physical
Tony,
The physical challenge of climbing Mount Shasta should not be underestimated. This will be similar to Whitney in duration and intensity, although quite different in terrain. We climb snow and ice on Shasta and wear crampons and use ice axes. This will be very demanding and challenging, with a total elevation gain/loss of greater than 7,000'. I am not able to judge if you are able to complete this with your recent surgery, best to seek advice from your doctor. Please contact us if you would like to discuss this further.
cheers, -Chris
Okay I climbed this mountain
Katie, The USGS recently
Katie,
The USGS recently recalculated the height of Mount Shasta. The official elevation is 14,179', you may have to come climb again now that it's taller! Cheers, -Chris
May i get a list of
Hello Michael,
Hello Michael,
Thanks for your message, I have sent you an email with the details you requested. We hope you can join us for a climb this season! -Chris
How far in advance do your
Diane, Thanks for your
Diane,
Thanks for your inquiry. There will be dates available for you and your son to climb. You may not have your first choice, but there will be openings for a climb together.
My 25 th wedding anniversary
Hi Thom, It is possible
Hi Thom,
It is possible to attempt a summit climb in March, however it can be very wintry conditions at that time. We often receive major snow storms in March. Snow is deep and the temps can be frigid. Skiing is fabulous, but a summit is a very challenging undertaking. You should have prior mountain experience to consider this. Please call or email to discuss this further.
Hello, Are you able to
Phil, We can
Phil,
We can schedule a climb on the north side in September. In October the climbing conditions and weather are poor and variable, we do not offer climbs for that reason.
I just reserved a spot on
Mike, You will
Mike,
You will receive email confirmation with the information you requested. If you send an email I can send a copy of the equipment list as well. We look forward to climbing with you. -Chris
Can I get a list of required
Stan, If you let us know
Stan,
If you let us know your email, we will gladly send a long a required equipment list. Winter climbs are on a private schedule, we would be happy to discuss options with you for the holidays. Cheers, -Chris
For the expedition style
Mike, We usually
Mike,
We usually return to the trailhead between 5:00 and 7:00 pm on the last day of the expedition style summit climb. We generally recommend that folks spend the night in Mt Shasta after the climb, you will probably be pretty tired.
Do we need any climbing
Josh, Shasta is
Josh,
Shasta is perfect for new climbers, no prior climbing experince is necessary. Although you should be in good shape and training, Shasta is a big challenge! You do not need to climb with an adult if you are under 18.
Will my old Danner
Tom, Backpaking and
Tom,
Backpaking and hiking boots are generally not adequate for climbing Mt Shasta. We need a mountaineering boot that will accept a crampon. Most of our climbers rent this boot as it not something that you will use frequently. The Fifth Season in Mount Shasta has an excellent selection of rental boots and equipment. I would recommend renting a climbing boot for the ascent.
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