Mt. Shasta Climb

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Trip Details
Gear List

Highlights

Trip Dates:

2008 South Face

Jul 4–6 New date!
Jul 11–13
Jul 18–20

2008 Northeast Face

Jul 25–27 Sold out
Aug 8–10 Sold out

Price:

2008
REI member: $550
Non-member: $595

Total Days: 3

Group Size: 4-8

REI may run 2 groups per departure date listed above.

Activity Level: 1 2 3 4 5

We have active trips for every skill level, novice to expert. These guidelines will help you select the level of adventure that's right for you.
1 2 3 4 5 Relaxed: Adventure travel at its most relaxed pace.
Activity: 1-3 hours most days
Distances: walk less than 3 miles most days
Surfaces: flat terrain
Elevation change: little to none
Altitude: less than 3,000 ft
1 2 3 4 5 Easy Active: Great for newcomers to active travel.
Activity: 2-5 hours most days
Distances: Hike up to 6 miles, cycle 10-30 miles most days
Surfaces: flat or rolling terrain with some possible steeps
Elevation change: up to 2,000 ft/day
Altitude: up to 6,000 ft
1 2 3 4 5 Moderate: For outdoor novices and above.
Activity: 4-6 hours most days
Distances: Hike up to 10 miles most days, cycle 20-40 miles most days
Surfaces: rolling or mountainous terrain with some steep ascents/descents and uneven trails
Elevation change: up to 3,000 ft/day
Altitude: up to 10,000 ft
1 2 3 4 5 Moderate Plus: Trips rated as Moderate Plus [3-4] are recommended for travelers seeking both moderate [3] and vigorous [4] activity levels. Please refer to daily trip itineraries for specifics.
1 2 3 4 5 Vigorous: Recommended for fit travelers with basic skills.
Activity: 5-8 hours most days
Distances: Hike up to 12 miles most days, cycle 30-50 miles most days
Surfaces: mountainous, exposed terrain with steep ascents/descents and uneven trails
Elevation change: up to 4,000 ft/day
Altitude: up to 14,000 ft.
Experience and a doctors release may be required
1 2 3 4 5 Strenuous: A trip for experienced and very fit travelers.
Activity: 10+ hours/day
Distances: Hike 12 or more miles most days, cycle 50 or more miles most days
Surfaces: remote mountainous, exposed terrain with steep ascents/descents, uneven trails with loose features.
Elevation change: up to 4,000 ft/day
Altitude: may well exceed 14,000 ft
Experience and a doctors release are required

This trip is rated Strenuous (5).

The South Face
We plan to climb for 4 hours or more on most days, but our summit day will potentially exceed 12-14 hours and is very strenuous. We will be traveling on steep and often exposed terrain, gaining over 2,000 feet in elevation most days and descending around 7,500 feet after having climbed to the summit in the morning on the final day. We will travel at altitudes between 6,500 and just over 14,000 feet while carrying heavy packs at times on steep snow and ice. The terrain and conditions will require the use of specialized equipment for climbing ice or snow, including ropes, harnesses, helmets, crampons, ice axes and more. To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and the likelihood that you will summit, we suggest that you engage in a regular exercise regimen prior to your departure. We also recommend that you stay well hydrated prior to departure to assist in mitigating altitude sickness. Most important to your enjoyment of the trip is your overall fitness level. Previous experience is highly recommended and a physician’s release is required prior to participating in this course.

The Northeast Face
We plan to climb for 5 hours or more on most days, with our summit day potentially exceeding 12 hours as we ascend about 5,000 feet then immediately descent the same route back to high camp. We will travel on steep and often exposed terrain, gaining over 3,000 feet in elevation our first day and dropping the same on the final day. We will travel at altitudes between 7,000 and just over 14,000 feet while carrying heavy packs at times on steep snow and ice. The terrain and conditions will require the use of specialized equipment for climbing ice or snow, including ropes, harnesses, helmets, crampons, ice axes and more. To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and the likelihood that you will summit, we suggest that you engage in a regular exercise regimen prior to your departure. We also recommend that you stay well hydrated prior to departure to assist in mitigating altitude sickness. Most important to your enjoyment of the trip is your overall fitness level. Previous experience is highly recommended and a physician’s release is required prior to participating in this course.

Activities:

Mountaineering

Accommodations:

Camping on mountain in backcountry basecamp, 2 nights. Optional hotel night stays on either end (not included in trip price).

Mt. Shasta Climb

At 14,162 feet, Mt. Shasta is the second highest volcanic peak in the lower 48 states. REI Adventures features two routes, each one during the appropriate season, in order to accommodate aspiring Shasta summiteers. On most July climbs we travel to Shasta’s south side to ascend the Avalanche Gulch route. This route is a classic steep snow climb, with much to offer the beginning mountaineer. In late July and August, we climb Shasta’s northeast face. Whichever route you choose, expect an instructional focus on basic skills development and in the use of technical equipment such as crampons and an ice axe during the “Snow School” portions of this course. The route is ascended at a pace that allows time for this.

Mt. Shasta Climb: The South Face – Avalanche Gulch Itinerary:

Departing July 11 and July 18, 2008
Night before
Since we will meet at 9:00 am on day one of your trip, you may choose to arrive in Mt. Shasta City the night before our trip begins.

Hotel night stays are not included in the cost of this trip. See Day 3 description for details.
Day 1
Your trip begins today in Shasta City. Meet your climbing guide(s) at the Cold Creek Inn at 9:00 am. After a brief orientation, we leave any valuables under lock and key at the Inn and then carpool to the trailhead. We start our ascent at 6,950 ft and traveling up to about 8,000 ft to set-up base camp. Once camp is set up, we’ll begin “Snow School” and cover the basics of ice axe and crampon use, climbing techniques and an introduction to roped travel in preparation for our summit attempt. After snow school we will enjoy an early dinner and retire to our sleeping bags. Meals included: Dinner. Bring your own variety of quick foods to be eaten constantly throughout the day.
Day 2
Today we move to high camp. We will hike to about 10,000 ft and set up near Lake Helen. Expect to climb for 4 hours or more today. If weather permits, we’ll continue working on skills before dinner and end the night once again with a briefing on the next day’s events and plenty of rest. Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner. Bring your own variety of quick foods to be eaten constantly throughout the day, energy bars and drinks, etc.
Day 3
Summit day! Our summit attempt commences between 2:00 am and 3:00 am. Our turnaround time may be as early 11:00 am in order to avoid potentially serious hazards that tend to manifest in the afternoon. Depending on conditions, then, the descent to camp may take 2.5 to 4.5 hours. From camp, we pack up and make our final descent to the trailhead. We expect to be back between 4:00pm and 6:00pm. You may consider another night stay at the hotel as you are likely to be very tired. Meals included: Breakfast. Bring your own variety of quick foods to be eaten constantly throughout the day.

Hotel night stays and dinner on the night before day one and on the last night are not included. To make a reservation at the Cold Creek Inn call 530-926-9851. Mention you are traveling with REI Adventures to receive a 15% discount. Be sure to give the Inn at least 24 hours notice.

Mt. Shasta Climb: The Northeast Face – Hotlum/Bolam Ridge Itinerary:

Departing July 25 and August 8, 2008
Night before
Since we will meet at 8:00 am on day one of your trip, you may choose to arrive in Mt. Shasta City the night before our trip begins.

Hotel night stays are not included in the cost of this trip. See Day 3 description for details.
Day 1
Your trip begins today in Shasta City. Meet your climbing guide(s) at the Cold Creek Inn at 8:00 am. After a brief orientation, we leave any valuables under lock and key at the Inn and then carpool to the trailhead. We start our ascent from the North Gate trailhead at 7,000 ft and will climb through the day to 9,400 ft. where we’ll establish our base camp. This full day of moderate/low angle climbing may take anywhere from 4 to 5 hours, and we’ll stop along the way for lunch. Once we arrive and camp is set up, we’ll begin “Snow School” and cover the basics of ice axe and crampon use, specific climbing techniques, as well as an introduction to roped travel in preparation for our summit attempt. After snow school we will enjoy an early dinner and retire to our sleeping bags. Meals included: Dinner. Bring your own variety of quick foods to be eaten constantly throughout the day.
Day 2
Summit day! Our summit attempt commences between 2:00 am and 3:00 am. Our turnaround time may be as early 11:00 am in order to avoid potentially serious hazards that tend to manifest in the afternoon. Depending on conditions, then, the descent back to camp may take 2.5 to 4.5 hours. Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner. Bring your own variety of quick foods to be eaten constantly throughout the day, energy bars and drinks, etc.
Day 3
Today we’ll enjoy a leisurely breakfast, pack and descend from camp back to the trailhead. The descent commonly takes 3 to 3.5 hours. We expect to be back between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. You may consider another night stay at the hotel as you are likely to be tired. Meals included: Breakfast. Bring your own variety of quick foods to be eaten constantly throughout the day.

Hotel night stays and dinner on the night before day one and on the last night are not included. To make a reservation at the Cold Creek Inn call 530-926-9851. Mention you are traveling with REI Adventures to receive a 15% discount. Be sure to give the Inn at least 24 hours notice.

Note on Itinerary:

Although we do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control. This trip is operated rain or shine.

Important Information About Air Travel:

Contact REI Adventures prior to purchasing your airline tickets to confirm the trip has the minimum number of participants required to operate.

Price Includes:

Professional instruction and guiding; all meals from lunch on day one through lunch on day three; 2- or 3-person tents; group climbing equipment and cooking gear; group first-aid kit, water filter; campsite and summit permit fees

Not Included:

Transportation from your hometown to group meeting point; hotel night stays before and after the trip; insurance of any kind; alcoholic beverages; soft drinks; guide gratuities; lunches and snack items (see pack list for detailed guidance) and items of a personal nature.

Closest Airport:

Redding, California: 60 miles

Transfers:

There is no reliable transfer service from any airport to our meeting place. Anticipate renting a car if flying in for this weekend getaway.

Qualifications:

This trip is rated Strenuous (5).

The South Face
We plan to climb for 4 hours or more on most days, but our summit day will potentially exceed 12-14 hours and is very strenuous. We will be traveling on steep and often exposed terrain, gaining over 2,000 feet in elevation most days and descending around 7,500 feet after having climbed to the summit in the morning on the final day. We will travel at altitudes between 6,500 and just over 14,000 feet while carrying heavy packs at times on steep snow and ice. The terrain and conditions will require the use of specialized equipment for climbing ice or snow, including ropes, harnesses, helmets, crampons, ice axes and more. To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and the likelihood that you will summit, we suggest that you engage in a regular exercise regimen prior to your departure. We also recommend that you stay well hydrated prior to departure to assist in mitigating altitude sickness. Most important to your enjoyment of the trip is your overall fitness level. Previous experience is highly recommended and a physician’s release is required prior to participating in this course.

The Northeast Face
We plan to climb for 5 hours or more on most days, with our summit day potentially exceeding 12 hours as we ascend about 5,000 feet then immediately descent the same route back to high camp. We will travel on steep and often exposed terrain, gaining over 3,000 feet in elevation our first day and dropping the same on the final day. We will travel at altitudes between 7,000 and just over 14,000 feet while carrying heavy packs at times on steep snow and ice. The terrain and conditions will require the use of specialized equipment for climbing ice or snow, including ropes, harnesses, helmets, crampons, ice axes and more. To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and the likelihood that you will summit, we suggest that you engage in a regular exercise regimen prior to your departure. We also recommend that you stay well hydrated prior to departure to assist in mitigating altitude sickness. Most important to your enjoyment of the trip is your overall fitness level. Previous experience is highly recommended and a physician’s release is required prior to participating in this course.

Weather:

Base camp temperatures can range from the 60s+ during the day to well below freezing at night. Summit temperatures can drop to the teens (or lower) and persistent wind is common. Although Shasta enjoys excellent weather for much of the summer, as with any large mountain, it generates its own weather and snowfall is possible even during the summer months. Trip members should arrive prepared for all possibilities by following the gear recommendations below.

High Altitude Concerns:

Mt. Shasta is over 14,000’ high and is ascended rapidly. As such, some climbers experience symptoms of altitude sickness during the climb. These symptoms can include headache, nausea, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, and general weakness. Sometimes, judgment is impaired in individuals experiencing the effects of altitude sickness, causing them to want to continue climbing when it is no longer advisable for them to do so. Our guides will determine if any individual is displaying symptoms of altitude sickness that may put him or her in serious danger, or endanger other individuals in the group. By participating in this climb, you are agreeing to accept the REI guide's judgment should they advise you not to make a summit attempt.

General Information:

This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Weekend Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and detailed pre-trip information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased within 21 days of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.

Mt. Shasta Climb

Having the proper gear is vital to your comfort and overall enjoyment of the seminar. Here is a gear list that has been specifically designed for this trip. We are often asked if all items appearing on this list are really required. Our guides assert that climbers must arrive prepared as indicated, but please keep in mind that not all gear will be required for all departures. The weather and terrain conditions on Mt. Shasta at the time of your arrival will dictate what clothing and equipment you will be required to carry to base camp and what (if anything) can be left behind. If you do not already own all of the necessary gear and are not certain if you will participate in mountaineering trips on a regular basis, please consider renting. Items marked with an asterisk (*) are generally available to rent.

Weather

Base camp temperatures can range from the 60s+ during the day to well below freezing at night. Summit temperatures can drop to the teens (or lower) and persistent wind is common. Although Shasta enjoys excellent weather for much of the summer, as with any large mountain, it generates its own weather, and snowfall is possible even during the summer months. Trip members should arrive prepared for all possibilities by following the gear recommendations below.

Gear Checklist

Provided Gear

Tent (2- or 3-person)

Group cooking gear/kitchen (stoves, pots, etc.)

Main climbing rope

Climbing harness

Luggage

Backpack—internal frame 5,000 cu. in. minimum, or external frame 4,000 cu. in. minimum

Camping gear

*Sleeping bag, 20º F minimum, down or synthetic

*Sleeping pad: full length closed-cell foam pad or Therm-a-Rest

Climbing gear

*Helmet, designed for climbing (bicycle helmets are not acceptable)

*Crampons: Must be 12-point

*Ice axe (65-75 cm – no larger)

Carabiners: 1 locking carabiner

Clothing

Midweight wool or fleece jacket/sweater

Midweight, thermal underwear top and bottom, synthetic or wool (no cotton)

Wool or fleece pants (early/late season)

Lightweight pants (mid-summer)

Synthetic T-shirts

Synthetic long-sleeve shirt

Synthetic, quick-drying hiking shorts if your pants are not convertible

Hiking socks and liner socks - 3 pairs of each

Bring a few lightweight, easily washable items for travel and use when not climbing

Clothing accessories

Gaiters, mid-calf length minimum

Waterproof overmitts

Wool or fleece mittens/gloves, 2 pair

Thin gloves or mitten liners

Sun hat

Wool or fleece hat

Bandana for sun protection

Headlamp, spare batteries and bulb (no flashlights)

Sunglasses with dark lenses and side glare protection—often called glacier glasses

Outerwear

Parka (MANDATORY): Either down or synthetic fill, rated to 10º F. A parka with hood is in addition to the waterproof shell jacket and other required upper-body layers. It is worn over all other layers, primarily on rest breaks and occasionally while climbing

Waterproof, breathable shell jacket with attached hood (ponchos not acceptable)

Waterproof, breathable shell pants with side zippers allowing for easy on/off over boots

Footwear

*Climbing boots: Double plastic boots are highly recommended. Guides require plastic boots in certain weather conditions

Camp shoes: lightweight sneakers (something lightweight other than your plastic boots)

Travel accessories

Lunch items for each day (easily packable, non-perishable, energy bars and real foods)

Energy snacks and powdered drinks

Favorite seasoning to flavor freeze-dried food

Eating utensils: 1 large bowl, insulated mug or cup, spoon

Two 1-quart water bottles (no hydration packs as the tubes freeze easily)

Sun block and lip balm w/high SPF

Toiletry kit

½-roll toilet paper

Hand sanitizer gel

Towel

Watch with alarm or travel clock

Two large and one small garbage bag

Personal first-aid kit

Optional field gear

Ski poles, preferably adjustable

Camera and film, spare batteries (lithium, not standard alkaline)

Reading and writing materials

Down or fleece vest

Down booties (early season only)

Earplugs

Compass

Altimeter

Personal tent, if desired (but remember, you'll be carrying it on your own!