MOUNT BAKER
Mount Baker, also known as Koma Kulshan by the local indigenous tribes, is an impressive stratovolcano located in the North Cascades of Washington State, USA. Rising to an elevation of 10,781 feet (3,286 meters), it is one of the most prominent and iconic peaks in the Pacific Northwest region.
Geologically, Mount Baker is part of the Cascade Range, a volcanic arc that extends from Northern California through Oregon and Washington and up into British Columbia, Canada. The mountain's cone-shaped profile is a result of its eruptive history, characterized by multiple eruptions and lava flows over thousands of years.
One of Mount Baker's most striking features is the heavily glaciated terrain that covers much of its surface. The mountain hosts numerous glaciers, including the Easton, Coleman, and Deming glaciers, among others. These immense ice rivers not only add to the breathtaking beauty of the landscape but also contribute significantly to the region's hydrology and play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate ecosystems of the area.
Mount Baker is the perfect mountain to introduce beginner climbers to the world of mountaineering. It offers a stunning forested environment as a starting point, along with the opportunity to experience glaciers. it attracts outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year, offering a wide array of recreational opportunities. In the warmer months, hikers and climbers flock to its slopes to conquer its challenging routes, with the most popular being the Coleman-Deming and Easton Glacier routes.
The surrounding Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest provides a haven for a diverse range of flora and fauna. The lower elevations are adorned with lush forests of Douglas fir, western hemlock, and cedar trees, while the subalpine and alpine regions are carpeted with vibrant wildflowers during the brief summer months. its recreational appeal,
Mount Baker holds significant cultural and spiritual importance to the indigenous peoples of the region. The mountain is considered sacred by several Native American tribes, who have lived in the area for thousands of years.
“My husband and I had the privilege of going on our first mountaineering trip with Lakpa and it was phenomenal. We did a two-night, three-day climb of Mount Baker via the Easton glacier.
Going in, I was terrified as the weather forecast showed high winds and low visibility. I almost backed out due to my inexperience and fear of adverse mountain conditions, but in the end, hearing Lakpa describe his safety-first plan in his calm and measured style, I decided to go ahead. From patiently reviewing basics such as how to layer clothing, putting on crampons, practicing self-arrest skills, roping in and out, to cooking hearty and delicious meals, to expertly guiding us safely up and down the mountain in high winds and rain when other groups struggled, he was simply wonderful.
It was the best introduction to mountaineering and we will always be grateful to have had Lakpa guide us on our inaugural mountaineering trek. He is a treasure trove of experience, wisdom, and humility. We hope to summit more mountains with him!
Jharna J.
PRICING: $950.00
-
Difficulity Level: Hard
-
Duration: 3 Days
-
Fitness Level: High
-
Elevation: 3,870 M / 12,700 FT.
