North Sister, Northwest Ridge

Activity Notes

Glenn Widener is the climb leader,

This is my favorite route on North Sister, as much for the approach from McKenzie Pass as the climb itself.  I think this PCT section is the most scenic trail in Oregon.  Trail is 7 miles and 2000' gain, nice and easy, total hike/climb gain 5000'. This is a retry from last season's freak August snowstorm!

The climb is an easy ridge scramble, plus two short low-5th pitches on the summit pinnacles, which are rather safe for everyone but the leader (!).  We will handle these with fixed lines and rappels.   No snow involved.  There is some minor unprotected exposure for a few steps in a couple spots, be sure you are comfortable with this. This is a fair-weather climb, at least for summit day. 

The advance permit locks us into the schedule (sadly).  Start/return times are in-town.  The meeting location/time for the climb is the Lava Camp trailhead a mile east of McKenzie Pass, at 11AM. Start hiking at noon.  Late lunch in Sisters afterward if so inclined!  Drive time is about 4 hours from Portland. We will camp 2 nights on the pumice flats behind Collier Cone, at the foot of the NW Ridge.  Snow patches for water.