Sharkfin Tower, perched high in Boston Basin in the heart of Washington’s North Cascades, is one of the region’s most beautiful moderate alpine climbs. The approach through lush meadows and rugged moraine offers jaw-dropping views of Forbidden Peak, Johannesburg Mountain, and other iconic spires. The climb itself—typically via the Southeast Ridge—is a striking, exposed route on some of the cleanest and most solid granite in the entire range. With low-fifth-class climbing, outstanding position, and a dramatic summit perch, Sharkfin delivers a classic alpine experience that’s approachable yet unforgettable. Its combination of aesthetic quality, sound rock, and big-mountain ambiance makes it a must-do for any climber venturing into the North Cascades.

  • Dates: Custom, call or email for availability
  • Duration: 3-days (Available as a 4-day combined with Forbidden or Sahale Mountain)
  • Level: Beginner to Intermediate
  • Client Ratio: 2:1
  • Difficulty: III 5.4 (6-pitches)
  • 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 to Camp 2,200′↑, 3.5~ Miles, 3-5 hours

Begin your trip at the Boston Basin Trailhead, located at approximately 3,600 feet. The approach to low camp is around 3.5 miles and gains about 2,200 feet of elevation. The trail is steep and rugged, weaving through lush old-growth forest before opening into the alpine meadows of Boston Basin. Expect wildflowers, cascading waterfalls, and increasingly dramatic views as you gain elevation. Low camp, situated around 5,800 feet, offers excellent tent sites and stunning vistas of surrounding peaks like Mount Torment and Forbidden Peak. From camp, you’ll be able to preview much of your route for the following day.

Day 2- Climb Sharkfin Tower 2,000′↑ 2,000’↓ ~3 miles, 5-8 hours

Set out early to climb Sharkfin Tower. The round trip from camp is approximately 3 miles with about 2,000 feet of elevation gain. The approach begins with a scramble over talus and lingering snowfields leading to the Quien Sabe Glacier. Crossing the glacier typically involves moderate slopes, occasional crevasses, and roped travel, depending on conditions. This part of the journey is often a highlight—ascending above the massive Boston Glacier while surrounded by jagged peaks is both humbling and inspiring. The glacier travel leads to the base of Sharkfin Tower’s Southwest Ridge, which offers several pitches of enjoyable and solid alpine rock climbing in the 5.0 to 5.2 range. The route is exposed and airy, with exceptional views in all directions, especially of the sprawling ice of the Boston Glacier far below. After tagging the summit at 8,120 feet and taking in the sweeping panorama of Forbidden Peak, Sahale, and the rest of the North Cascades, descend the route with a series of rappels and return to camp.

Day 3- Return Home 2,200‘↓ 3.5 miles, 2-3 hours

Pack up and descend the 3.5-mile trail back to the trailhead, losing approximately 2,200 feet in elevation. While the trail can be steep and loose in places, the descent offers time to reflect on the climb and enjoy one last look back at the dramatic spires and glaciers of Boston Basin.

Optional Day 4: For teams looking to extend the adventure, a fourth day can be used to climb Sahale Mountain or Forbidden Peak, depending on experience and objectives. Sahale is an excellent moderate glacier climb with stunning views and a short rock scramble to the summit. It’s a great option for newer alpine climbers or those looking for a more relaxed summit day. Forbidden Peak, on the other hand, is a North Cascades classic with more advanced climbing and route-finding, particularly via the West Ridge or East Ridge. Both options offer unforgettable experiences and are well worth the extra day for those with the time, fitness, and skill to take them on.

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?

Day trips will keep your pack between 10-15 pounds max.

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.