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East Ridge

4A | D | IV Edit route
The East Ridge is another documented alpine route on Mount Blackburn, and it is generally regarded as a more serious and committing line than the Northwest Ridge. It involves long glacier access and sustained alpine climbing on a remote peak with difficult logistics. The ridge can present steep snow, ice, and mixed terrain, along with exposure to weather and avalanche or cornice hazards. Because of the mountain's scale and remoteness, the route is usually attempted as an expedition objective. Route-finding and stable conditions are important throughout the climb. This is a true mountaineering route rather than a trekking approach.

Route Outline

Approach from the eastern side of the mountain via glacier terrain
Set camp on or near the upper glacier below the East Ridge
Climb the East Ridge through mixed snow, ice, and exposed alpine sections
Reach the summit of Mount Blackburn
Descend by the ascent route

More routes on Mount Blackburn

Northwest Ridge

3A | AD | III
The Northwest Ridge is the best-known and most established climbing line on Mount Blackburn. It is a serious alpine route on a very large, remote Wrangell volcano, with long glacier approaches and objective hazards from crevasses and changing snow conditions. The route is typically climbed as a multi-day expedition rather than a single push. Conditions can vary widely, and route-finding on the ridge and on the approach glaciers is an important part of the climb. The line is generally considered the standard mountaineering route to the summit. It is not a hiking route and requires full glacier travel and alpine climbing competence.
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