Vesper Peak Climb
A Classic Cascades Adventure
I love climbing in the mountains, and it’s even better when the rock is solid and the movement is fun. That’s why I’m excited to offer a trip to Vesper Peak, to climb one of the high quality multi-pitch routes on the mountain’s north face. My favorite line up the peak is the Ragged Edge; it has wildly exposed belays and engaging climbing in a remote setting. Plus, you get to enjoy a backcountry camp at the beautiful Lake Elan just below the base of the climb.
The Trip in a Nutshell:
One day of multi-pitch skills at Index Town Walls
Two day ascent of Vesper Peak with a scenic backcountry camp
Learn essential alpine climbing skills
Cost: $1275 for a 3 day trip with 2 participants
Trip Itinerary
Day One: Skills at Index Town Walls*
Practice rope management, multi-pitch transitions, rappelling, removing trad gear, and more
Climb a multi-pitch route in Index
Overview of backcountry trip & trip-planning basics
Camp nearby (camping reservation not included)
*Option to add another day for folks interested in leading trad or other skills
Day Two: Approach Vesper Peak
Gear check & pack (option to stop for any last minute needs)
Drive to Sunrise Mine Trailhead (~2 hours from Index, WA, transportation not included)
Hike into Lake Elan (~4-5 hour approach)
Set up camp, enjoy a backcountry meal together
Prepare for climb and go to sleep early!
Day Three: Climb Vesper Peak and hike out
Wake up early and finish the approach to the base of the climb (some 3rd & 4th class scrambling)
Rope up and climb 5-6 pitches to the summit
Summit high fives, selfies, and snacks!
Descend back to camp, pack overnight packs, and hike back to trailhead
Say goodbye or see you next time!!!
The details…
Skills Learned
Participants will learn the necessary skills to be a competent member of an alpine climbing team. Skills learned include:
Lap-coiling, rope-stacking, other rope management strategies
Multi-pitch transitions
Lead belay
Rappelling methods
Trad gear basics (for following trad)
Trip planning basics & resources
Backcountry navigation & route finding
Climber Guidelines
Because of the slightly more challenging and traversing nature of the climbing, the routes on Vesper Peak are recommended for folks with some outdoor climbing experience. The backcountry setting also makes this a good fit for folks who have some experience hiking with an overnight pack. This trip will be a good challenge for you if you:
Have been on an overnight backpacking trip
Can climb 5.8 pretty consistently outdoors without falling or taking
Can hike for 4-5 hours with an overnight backpack
No trad, lead climbing, or multi-pitch experience required
What’s Included
Group climbing gear (ropes, trad gear, anchor material)
Backcountry permits
Backcountry breakfast & dinner
Camping reservation in Index
Multi-pitch and alpine climbing instruction and guiding
What’s Not Included
Transportation in Index and to the Sunrise Mine Trailhead
Personal climbing gear (helmet, harness, shoes)
Personal overnight gear (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, backpack, etc)
Lunch, snacks, and front country food
Guide gratuity
Contact me to sign up.
Want to play in the mountains this summer? I want to hear from you! Fill out the form with interest, and I’ll reach out with more information, available dates and booking details.