Climbing Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta is one of the largest peaks in the Cascade mountain range. The summit lies over 14,000 feet from sea level, and in order to reach that point, if you take the popular route, you will have to climb around 7,000 feet. Now, if you intend to summit Mt. Shasta or hike above 10,000 feet you will have to pay a small fee. The fee helps pay for Ranger's so it is a good thing.



If it is going to be your first time climbing Mt. Shasta I would recommend starting at the Bunny Flat trail head. From there the trail will take you to Horse Camp. Horse Camp is right at the tree line and has a shelter and a care taker. The care takers (there is always at least two) work in week long shifts and are a huge resources. And, in the case of an emergency he/she is usually the first responder, so stop and say hi.



From Horse Camp you will make your way up to Helen Lake at 10,400 feet. Helen Lake is a good spot to camp over night if you want to break up the climb. During a busy weekend it will get crowded and finding a spot to pitch a tent can get difficult, so keep that in mind. I personally have never camped there because I don't see the point. But, it could be fun if you had a couple days and wanted to summit more then once.



From Helen Lake you will climb almost 4,000 more feet to the summit. Along the way you will climb up the Heart and pass the Red Banks. You will definitely want a helmet for these sections. Just like that your at the summit.



During the early season the return trip is speed up by glissading down parts of the climb, which is my favorite part about mountaineering. Also, another note about Mt. Shasta is that the weather can change very quickly, so pay attention!