Alpine Rock Climbing & Mountaineering in the North Cascades with Suzanna Lourie AMGA Guide

North Cascades Alpine Climbing

Explore the American Alps…

Revered for its verdant forests, craggy summits and formidable glaciers, the North Cascade range of Washington State is THE destination for alpine climbing in the lower 48. Cemented in climbing history with ascents of volcanoes like Mount Rainier and Mount Baker dating back to the 1800s, the North Cascades has long served as a training ground for alpinists preparing for climbs in the Alaska Range, the Himalaya or the Andes. From technical granite walls and remote knife-edge ridges to classic mountaineering routes on icy glaciers, the North Cascades holds a wealth of opportunity for rock climbers, alpinists and mountaineers alike.

I offer privately guided trips and custom ascents in the North Cascades region. From introductory glacier climbs to technical summit scrambles, my goal is to build a custom program for you, specifically. There is a lifetime of climbing in the North Cascades (just ask Fred Beckey), so if you are interested in a trip or objective not listed below, please ask. I operate trips in the Cascades through Mountain Madness and the American Alpine Institute, both licensed permit holders in North Cascades National Park.

Current Offerings

Forbidden Peak

Climb the iconic West Ridge of Forbidden Peak in the heart of North Cascades National Park, one of the “50 Classic Climbs of North America.”
Mount Shuksan

The epitome of alpinism in the Cascades. Climb Mount Shuksan: one of the most iconic peaks in the world via the Sulphide Glacier or Fisher Chimneys Routes.
Mount Baker

A classic volcano with entry-level routes, Mount Baker is the perfet venue for those looking to sink their teeth into mountaineering.
Vesper Peak

Climb alpine rock multi-pitch routes ranging from 5.7 - 5.9 on the stunning Vesper Peak outside Darrington, WA in the North Cascades. 1-3 Days.
Eldorado Peak

Another classic in North Cascades National Park. Climb the knife-ridge on snow and ice to the jaw-dropping summit of Eldorado Peak. Routes range from entry-level glacier mountaineering to technical 5.7 rock.
Washington Pass Rock

An alpine rock climbing paradise, Washington Pass has the highest concentration of alpine rock routes in the US. Enjoy relatively short approaches & quality alpine rock pitches ranging from 5.5 - 5.10+
Glacier Peak

Washingon’s most remote volcano, Glacier Peak lies more than 15 miles from any road in the heart of Glacier Peak Wilderness. Allow at least 3 days for this gem. Difficulty: Beginner-Intermediate
Mountaineering Courses

Build you own custom mountaineering course. Learn the fundamentals of ice axe & crampon use, self arrest, glacier travel & crevasse rescue. We offer custom mountaineering courses tailored to your individual climbing goals. Venues: Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan, Ruth Mountain.