Ptarmigan Traverse - Advanced Beginner Climb

National Geographic Adventure lists Mountain Madness' Ptarmigan Traverse as one of the World's Best New Adventures for 2007! 

Not to be confused with our spring ski trip, this majestic summer alpine traverse, considered the best in the Cascade Range, is the oldest and most famous high route in the Pacific Northwest. It epitomizes remoteness, wildness, and alpine adventure. The beauty of this area – especially the central portion and the White Rock Lakes area – is beyond words.

Four members of the Ptarmigan Climbing Club made the first crossing of this route in July 1938. For thirteen days, Calder Bressler, Bill Cox, Ray Clough and Tom Myers pioneered the entire route from Dome Peak to Cascade Pass and made many first ascents. Their route covered the Cascade Crest from Cascade Pass to a valley just north of Glacier Peak, in the Glacier Peak Wilderness area. They climbed an incredible number of peaks along the way – in fast and light alpine style – and it is a widely held belief that their exact itinerary has never been repeated, especially taking into account the peaks climbed in the northern section of the traverse.

For climbers this trip offers numerous summit opportunities, all in an incredible wilderness setting. Ascents of Magic and Mix Up, La Conte and Sentinel, Spire and Dome, are just a few of the climbs possible on this trip. The Ptarmigan Traverse is simply a must-do for any lover of mountain travel.