Women+ Ruth Mountain Climb

Embark on a breathtaking alpine adventure on Ruth Mountain, a perfect introduction to glacier climbing in the North Cascades. Our journey begins at Hannegan Pass, where we wind up a ridge and enter the striking amphitheater of the Ruth Glacier, surrounded by towering peaks and endless sky. The glacier’s gentle to moderate slopes offer a safe and exhilarating playground to practice essential mountaineering skills. Most participants savor the climb over two days, allowing time to soak in the scenery and mountain energy.

We kick off the trip in Bellingham with a gear check and orientation, ensuring everyone is prepared and confident. From there, we head to the trailhead and make our way to high camp, surrounded by wildflowers, alpine streams, and dramatic glacier views along the approach. Summit day starts with an early alpine rise, the crisp morning light illuminating the peaks as we ascend. Reaching the top is a moment of pure exhilaration, with sweeping panoramas stretching across the North Cascades. After soaking in the summit views, we descend back to camp and then to the trailhead, leaving the mountains with newfound skills, confidence, and a deep connection to the beauty and power of the alpine world. The climb offers a rewarding experience of movement, learning, and connection with the mountains, with sweeping views of the North Cascades along the way. After descending back to camp and then to the trailhead, participants leave with new skills, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and rhythm of the alpine environment.

• Day 1 – Approach & High Camp

  • Morning: Meet in Bellingham for gear checks, orientation, and a safety briefing.

  • Late Morning: Drive to Hannegan Pass trailhead and begin the approach hike.

  • Afternoon: Ascend the steep ridge to high camp at the base of the Ruth Glacier, surrounded by the jagged peaks of the North Cascades. Along the way, guides provide instruction on movement in alpine terrain, pacing, and crevasse awareness.

  • Evening: Settle into camp, enjoy a nourishing group dinner, and review glacier skills for the following day. Take in the alpine scenery, watch for wildlife like mountain goats, and soak in the evening mountain atmosphere.

  Day 2 – Glacier Skills & Climb Experience

  • Early Morning: Alpine start for glacier travel practice and ascent, focusing on rope techniques, crevasse navigation, and safe glacier movement.

  • Midday: Pause at high points along the glacier to practice skills, enjoy the surroundings, and connect with the alpine environment. The emphasis is on learning, movement, and experience rather than reaching the summit.

  • Afternoon: Descend back to high camp, break down camp, and continue down the ridge to the trailhead.

  • Evening: Return to Bellingham, finishing the trip with new mountaineering skills, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the North Cascades.

This is a great introductory glacier experience for many individuals. It is excellent training for larger glaciated peaks, such as Mount Baker or Mount Rainier.

• Ropes

• Pickets

• Stoves, cookware, and fuel

• Breakfast and dinner

• Tents

• Climbing permits and expert guides

• Ice screws

After signing up you will receive an email with a link to your pre-trip packet. This packet will include a more detailed packing list, training recommendations, and route information.