The Tatoosh Range, located in the southern end of Mt. Rain-Here Nat. Park, is made up of 11 named peaks. This 3 peak link-up is one of the most popular, if only because of the easy access from the trailhead. A popular Mazamas climb, this classic alpine scramble has a round trip hike of just 4 miles and 1,700 vertical feet, and thus can be done by most climbers of moderate fitness in a reasonable day. Along with a park entrance fee, all of the Tatoosh peaks offer spectacular views of Mt. Rainier - given clear weather, naturally. This is good beginner trip and fairly close to home. Be prepared for a short rappel on Castle and possible a handline on Pinnacle, depending on your comfort level on exposed 3rd or easy 4th class rock. In early season, an ice axe can be useful. "Tatoosh" means 'nourishing breast " in the local native American language. If you are looking for more solitude and similar scramble peaks, check these other options for Tatoosh climbing.

Activity Notes

This climb will involve driving up the day before and camping so we can get an early start summit day. Please do not apply if you are not available to come up the night before to campout and attend the pre-climb meeting and practice session.  This is an exploratory climb for the leader who has not lead this particular climb before. We will probably start with a climb of Castle peak first* and then see what time it is, and what the weather looks like before deciding what we climb next.  (might start with Pinnacle peak first?) This climb will involve hiking, climbing, rock scrambling, and rappelling.  BCEP grads in reasonable shape should have the skills necessary to be successful. Expect it to be a long day but lots of fun with good views, and maybe, just maybe, marmots!
Other Information
Driving Distance from Portland 160 miles
Driving Time from Portland 3 hours
Expected Duration Car to car in one day
Interesting Features Spectacular Views
Relevant Books 75 Scrambles in Washington by Peggy Goldman Cascade Alpine Guide: Columbia River to Stevens Pass by Fred Beckey
Relevant Maps USGS 7 ½ minute series, Tatoosh Lakes
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