Climbing

The rugged, exposed terrain of North Cascades National Park is well known for its challenging climbing routes, ranging from technical rock scrambling to mixed mountaineering, traditional climbing routes, and glacier climbs. Many routes have difficult approaches that sometimes require multi-day hikes over steep slopes and avalanche slides, and most climbs will require backcountry permits for camping. Mount Shuksan, Eldorado, and the Boston Basin area are some of the most popular wilderness climbing areas, while sport climbing and bouldering are found in the Skagit Gorge between Newhalem and Diablo. Careful planning and preparation are key to experiencing the best that North Cascades National Park offers, and all climbers are strongly encouraged to monitor route conditions, weather forecasts, and avalanche warnings, and to leave trip plans and an expected return date with someone. Visit the [Washington Climbers Coalition website](http://www.washingtonclimbers.org) for detailed information about routes, planning, and conditions.