Mount Adams Itinerary
12,276FT / 3,741M | WashingtonMount Adams Climb Itinerary
1 Week Before Climb – Gear Check and Orientation
A mandatory virtual Gear Check is held via Zoom at 12:00 p.m. PT (noon) one week before the climb. During this 90-minute session, guides review the function of each piece of equipment, packing techniques, and trip logistics. Climbers renting equipment from Alpine Ascents must pick up their rental gear from the Seattle office before the trip begins.
Day 1 – Cold Springs Trailhead to Lunch Counter Camp (9,250 ft)
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at the Inn of White Salmon in White Salmon, Washington, before driving to the Cold Springs Trailhead (5,600 ft.) on Mount Adams. The approach climbs steadily through forest, alpine meadows, and seasonal snowfields on the way to Lunch Counter Camp.
After approximately five to six hours of hiking, the team arrives at High Camp (9,250 ft.), where expansive views of Mount Hood and spectacular sunsets await. During the day, guides introduce fundamental snow travel skills, including ice axe use, self-belay techniques, and efficient movement in crampons.
- Altitudes: Cold Springs Trailhead (5,600 ft.) / Lunch Counter Camp (9,250 ft.)
- Elevation Gain: 3,650 ft.
- Mileage: 4 miles
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Day 2 – Lunch Counter Camp to Summit (12,276 ft.) to Cold Springs Trailhead
Summit day begins before dawn to provide the safest and most efficient climbing conditions. The route ascends to the true summit of Mount Adams (12,276 ft.), where climbers enjoy panoramic views of Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, Mount Hood, and other Cascade volcanoes.
After celebrating on the summit, the descent may include a glissade when snow conditions allow, making for a memorable return to High Camp. After packing camp, the team continues to the Cold Springs Trailhead before either spending the night in Trout Lake or returning to Seattle.
- Altitudes: Lunch Counter Camp (9,250 ft.) / Summit (12,276 ft.) / Cold Springs Trailhead (5,600 ft.)
- Elevation Change: 3,026 ft. ascent / 6,676 ft. descent
- Mileage: 2 miles up / 6 miles down
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours up / 5–6 hours down
