The Fisher Chimneys route on Mount Shuksan is one of the most engaging and aesthetic alpine climbs in the North Cascades, offering a little bit of everything—lush trail approach, intricate scrambling, glacial travel, and a dramatic summit finish. The chimneys themselves are a highlight: a series of 4th-class rock steps and heather-covered benches that wind their way up a steep face in spectacular position, with Mount Baker looming across the valley and the hanging glaciers of Shuksan directly above. It’s a route that feels wild and technical without being overly committing, striking a perfect balance for those looking for a real alpine adventure with classic Cascadian flair.

  • Dates: Custom, call or email for availability
  • Duration: 3-days
  • Level:  Intermediate
  • Client Ratio: 2:1
  • Difficulty: IV 5.0 (2000+ feet of low 5th class and two sections of steep snow/ice)
  • Cost:
  • 1:1 $1,800 per person
  • 2:1 $1,200 per person
  • Included: Park fees, group climbing equipment, and guide services.
  • Not Included:Ground transportation airfare, transportation within Seattle, hotel accommodations, restaurant meals, gratuities for guides, meals while on the mountain, and all personal items

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Day 1 – Hike and Climb to High Camp | ~3,700′ ↑ | ~4 Miles | 5–7 hours
Meet in the morning for a gear check and drive to the Lake Ann Trailhead (approx. 4,700 ft). The approach begins on a well-maintained trail that descends slightly before climbing gently toward Lake Ann, a picturesque alpine lake beneath Shuksan’s imposing walls. After a break at the lake, the route steepens and transitions to more technical terrain. We will then climb up the iconic Fisher Chimneys—A mostly 3ed and 4th-class route with short but slightly harder rock steps  to 5.0 interspersed with heather benches and snow patches. At the top of the Chimney’s we will  establish camp around 7,400 feet near the base of the Winnies Slide; a steep 200ft step of snow or ice to 50-degrees, with incredible views of Baker, the North Cascades, and tomorrow’s climbing route.

Day 2 – Summit via the Upper Curtis and Sulphide Glacier & Summit Pyramid | ~2,700′ ↑ / 2,700′ ↓ | ~4 Miles | 8–12 hours
We begin before dawn, roping up to ascend the Winnies Slide and then contouring around the Upper Curtis Glacier. This section involves navigating crevasses and potentially negotiating a short ice step or bergschrund depending on seasonal conditions. After wrapping around Hell’s Highway—a steep snow/ice ramp—we join the Sulphide Glacier and continue to the base of the summit pyramid. The final 700 feet involves 4th and low 5th-class scrambling or steep snow climbing (depending on route and time of season) to reach Shuksan’s summit at 9,131 feet. After taking in the iconic 360° views, we carefully descend the same route, returning to camp for a well-earned rest.

Day 3 – Descend to Trailhead | ~3,700′ ↓ | ~4 Miles | 3–5 hours
After a relaxed morning at high camp, we pack up and begin the descent. Downclimbing the Fisher Chimneys requires care and often includes rappels or short roped sections depending on conditions. After exiting the technical terrain, we enjoy a scenic walk past Lake Ann and back to the trailhead. Expect to be back at the cars by early to mid-afternoon, wrapping up an unforgettable climb of one of the most iconic peaks in the North Cascades.

MULTI-DAY ALPINE CLIMBING EQUIPMENT LIST

Our recommended clothing system has four layers.

  • Base layer: manages moisture and wicks perspiration away from your skin. (synthetic or merino wool)
  • Softshell: should be a durable, comfortable, insulating and wind/water resistant layer that breathes well.
  • Hard shell: windproof, waterproof and breathable.  (e.g. Gore-Tex, or similar)
  • Insulating layer: should be down-fill or synthetic-fill and fit over all layers. (e.g. down, primaloft or polarguard)

These four layers are usually sufficient for most people, but if you tend to be colder bring one extra medium-layer that would be ideal for extra warmth around camp, such as a vest. When deciding what to pack, remember to bring enough clothes and accessories to ensure your safety and comfort, while not over-burdening yourself with items you probably won’t use.

Climbing Gear

  • Adjustable Trekking Poles
  • Alpine Climbing boots Full shank crampon compatible leather, synthetic, or hybrid boot depending on climb and season.Single-weight synthetic/leather mountaineering boots are adequate for mid and late-summer climbs on Mount Baker and in the North Cascades when conditions are expected to be dry.
  • Rock shoes
  • Alpine climbing harness  Must have adjustable leg loops and fit over all clothing and can be put on with ski boots
  • Ice Axe – Lightweight (50–70 cm)
  • Crampons with anti-ball plate  Must be fit to boots prior to trip,
  • Climbing helmet  Adjustable, should fit with hat on
  • Belay Device
  • 4 locking carabiners –  2 Large, pear-shaped carabiner is best, screw gate type recommended and 2 smaller locking screwgate
  • 4 regular carabiners (e.g. small wire gate are recommended)
  • 1 double length sling
  • 1 single length sling
  • 1 Cordelette 6 mil 18-20’(6-7 meters)
  • 1 12” Prussik or Hollow Block*
Upper Body
Lower Body

Sleeping Gear

  • Sleeping bag Rated to at least 20º F. Line the stuff sack w/ plastic bag.
  • Sleeping pad 1 closed cell foam and/or Neo-Air for extra warmth and comfort.

Backpack

  • Internal frame pack 3500-4500 cubic inch capacity able to carry snowboard/skis

Miscellaneous Equipment

  • Sunglasses 100% UV protection with side shields or wrap around.
  • Personal first aid repair kit Basics: moleskin/blister kit, Band-Aids, first-aid tape, ibuprofen, personal medications, and batteries etc.
  • Lip balm At least SPF 20
  • Sunscreen At least SPF 40
  • Headlamp lightweight LED
  • 2 water bottles 1 liter wide-mouth Nalgene and 1 bottle holster, or
  • Hydration bladder With drinking tube and 1 Nalgene bottle
  • Bowl and spoon Plastic, small Tupperware works well. Lexan spoons are best.
  • Toiletry kit Be sure to include WAG Bag or toilet paper stored in a plastic bag.
  • Bandana
  • Hand wipes
  • Favorite snack foods (no more than 2 pounds)

WHO WILL MY GUIDE (OR GUIDES) BE?

We are small company who enjoy working together in the mountains as well as highly skilled professionals who hold current Wilderness First Responder certification and are proficient in technical rescue and evacuation skills. Our guides are dedicated to the world of alpinism, many having first ascents and hold professional certifications with the AMGA in the rock, alpine, and ski disciplines. The AMGA is part of the IFMGA, which is the international body of certified mountain guides.

HOW MUCH SHOULD I TIP MY GUIDES?

Tipping is considered standard practice in the guiding industry. Tipping amounts vary – so $20-30 per day per person/per guide is average that works well for the guides without a serious blow to your wallet. Often 10% of the course cost is a good rule-of-thumb. If you feel that the program was exceptional or substandard the tip can reflect that.

CAN I RENT EQUIPMENT FROM BCAG?

No, for these trips we strongly suggest to buy your equipment due to obscenely large rental costs for trip of this length.

HOW HEAVY WILL MY PACK BE?

Your pack will weigh between 30-35 pounds.

WHEN DO I NEED TO PAY THE BALANCE OF MY TRIP?

For Scheduled Domestic Courses and Climbs: Your balance is due 60 days from trip departure. Payable by check, Credit Card with service charge or Venmo.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I NEED TO CANCEL MY TRIP? 

If you should decide to cancel your trip, BCAG must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date we receive written notice. You will be assessed a cancellation fee according to the following schedule:

90 to 31 days from trip departure – 50% of trip cost

30 days or less – 100% of trip cost

WHAT HAPPENS IF BC ADVENTURE GUIDES HAS TO CANCEL MY TRIP? 

In the rare circumstance where we need to cancel a program you can reschedule without a fee or receive a refund on your deposit. If circumstances arise that force us to cancel a program that is already in progress, we reserve the right to decide whether a refund or credit, at a prorated rate, will be issued. We are not responsible for cancellation fees or costs arising from your changed or cancelled flights, lodging, or other arrangements. We strongly recommend obtaining trip cancellation insurance from your travel agent.