Eldorado - Advanced Alpine Climbing
July 5-9
Program Overview:
Our 5-day trip into Eldorado Basin is a trip where we will dive into all aspects of alpine climbing.
This is a LOW ratio course! We guide 2:1 to ensure adequate attention to our guest’s goals.
Through the course, you'll learn essential technical skills for alpine climbing and gain valuable experience on multiple peaks. Our experienced guides will lead you through the rugged terrain of the North Cascades, teaching you everything you need to know about route planning, trad gear placement, glacier travel, rope management, and more. By the end of the week, you'll be prepared to take on new alpine challenges with confidence and skill.
Itinerary:
Day 0:
Zoom chat which will address any needed equipment, necessary training, and any other topics of interest before going into the course.
Day 1: Ascend to Eldorado Glacier/East Ridge Camp
Morning:
Meet at the Eldorado Peak Trailhead early in the morning.
Begin the steep ascent towards the Eldorado Glacier or East Ridge.
Afternoon:
Arrive at the designated camp area on the Eldorado Glacier or East Ridge.
Set up camp.
Evening:
Review technical systems (crevasse rescue, ice axe/crampon use, rope team travel).
Rest and acclimatize to the altitude.
Day 2: Summit Eldorado Peak and Traverse to Klawatti Col
Early Morning:
Leave camp pre-dawn to climb Eldorado Peak via the East Ridge.
Experience the iconic knife edge finish and summit Eldorado Peak.
Late Morning:
Descend back to camp, pack up.
Traverse the Inspiration Glacier towards Klawatti Col.
Afternoon:
Set up camp at Klawatti Col.
Conduct an afternoon ascent of Klawatti Peak via the 4th class SE Ridge.
Evening:
Return to camp for dinner and rest.
Day 3: Climb Dorado Needle
Morning:
Early start to descend the McAllister Glacier to the base of Dorado Needle.
Climb mid fifth class rock to the summit of Dorado Needle.
Afternoon:
Celebrate the summit, take in the views.
Descend the NW Ridge and return to camp.
Evening:
Enjoy a well-earned meal and a night of sleep.
Day 4: Traverse to Austera Peak and Primus Peak
Early Morning:
Early rise and traverse north towards Austera Peak.
Climb the summit chimney of Austera Peak.
Rappel back down.
Late Morning:
Continue the traverse to Primus Peak.
Summit Primus Peak, enjoy panoramic views.
Afternoon:
Retrace steps back to camp.
Evening:
Dinner and rest.
Day 5: Descend Back to Trailhead
Morning:
Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at camp.
Pack up camp and begin the descent.
Mid-Morning to Early Afternoon:
Descend back to the trailhead.
Drive back to Bellingham.
Early Evening:
Arrive in Bellingham.
Curriculum:
We aim to cover a wide range of topics in this course. If you already possess some knowledge in the subject matter, anticipate building upon it rather than having to relearn what you already know.
Certain participants will be introduced to the fundamentals, such as rappelling and moving efficiently through 4th and 5th class terrain. On the other hand, those who are already familiar with these concepts can delve into more intricate rock rescue techniques and the logistics of retreating from challenging mountainous environments.
We strive to avoid offering a cookie-cutter course experience, so please don't hesitate to reach out to us for a discussion about a curriculum that would best suit you.
Costs:
$1500 per person
A non-refundable deposit of 30% is due to reserve the course.
Price Includes:
Tents
Group Climbing Equipment (Tents, Stoves, Rope, etc.)
Guide Services
Food in the Mountains
Price does not Include:
Airfare
Transportation
Hotel Accommodation
Restaurants in town
Personal Equipment (Available for Rent)
Travel Insurance with Trip Cancellation, Medical and Evacuation Policy
Guide Gratuities
