Climbing Conditions

Steep and snowy mountains and ridges with a large broken glacier
North Cascades National Park offers a lifetime of mountaineering objectives.

Winnie Hsieh

 

July 2026

Early-season conditions (including snow on rock routes) are still present on routes such as the Cat Scratch Gullies at Forbidden Peak, and the Fisher Chimneys at Mount Shuksan. It’s not time to pack away your snow gear for approaches yet. Be sure to account for the additional hazards, and the extra time needed to navigate early-season conditions.

Pay close attention to wildfire activities and any closures throughout the summer. Currently, the Luna fire is burning near Big Beaver Creek and has the potential to wrap around into the Access Creek drainage, which would affect the access to the Luna cross-country zone. It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan for your weekend!

The Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount is open seven days a week and is the only location that issue backcountry permits for your climbing trip (Glacier Public Service Center only issues permits for Fishers Chimney route and trips starting from Hannegan Pass). Please visit the backcountry permit page and other helpful links below to plan your trip prior to your visit.

Check the weather forecast and be prepared for varying conditions that may slow down your travels, whether that means encountering more snow or less snow on certain sections of your climbing route. As always, leave a detailed itinerary with a friend or family member, including the date and time you plan to exit the backcountry. Stay safe out there!

 
 

Current and General Climbing Conditions

Climbing conditions are reported by climbing rangers, and updated as frequently as possible.

Last updated: July 12, 2026

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

810 State Route 20
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284

Phone:

360 854-7200

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