Ptarmigan Traverse, North to South

This route is closed for the foreseeable future due to the Downey Creek fire.

One of the classic traverses in North America, this route was first completed in 1938 when four members from the Ptarmigan Climbing Club pioneered this alpine trek. As nearly all the route is off trail, expect routefinding challenges and very few people. Note: This is not a cross-country hikers' route. The traverse requires ice axes, crampons and rope; only experienced climbers should attempt it. Most parties take from five to seven days for the traverse, with the usual start being Cascade Pass. Most of the peak groupings (Magic-Mixup, Spider-Formidable, Le Conte-Sentinel, Spire-Dome) are about one full day travel apart. Total distance is approximately 40 miles, with 11,000 ft elevation gain, not including any additional peaks that may be climbed. GPS points are available for this route from the Mazamas business office.