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.

Day 1: Hiking towards Cascade Pass.

Park at Cascade Pass and start hiking toward Cascade Pass. We will travel to Cascade Pass at 5400 feet and continue up and over Cache Col and camp at Kool Aid Lake.

Day 2:

Begin the day climbing up the Red Ledges and dropping down on the Middle Cascade Glacier. Climb up the glacier to the Spider-Formidable Col en route to Yang Yang Lakes for the evening.

Day 3:

Tour up the Le Conte Glacier and climb Le Conte and Sentinel. After summiting, hike down Lizard Pass and camp at White Rocks Lake.

Day 4:

Climb up the Dana Glacier and descend south onto Itswoot Ridge and camp with view of Glacier Peak.

Day 5: Climb Dome Peak.

Today is reserved to climb Dome Peak, return to camp and enjoy the views.

Day 6: Hike to the Suiattle River Road.

Hike out via Bachelor and Downey creeks to the Suiattle River Road and savor our accomplishments.

Day 7: Reserved day.

Reserved for bad weather or more summit opportunities.