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Emperor Face

6B | ED2 | VII Edit route
The Emperor Face is a major alpine face route on Mount Robson and is among the most serious climbs on the mountain. It is a steep, committing line with sustained technical ice and mixed climbing, and it is highly exposed to objective hazards. Conditions on the face can change quickly, and safe passage depends on stable snow and ice. This is a well-documented mountaineering objective for experienced alpinists. It is significantly more difficult and committing than the standard Kain Route. Because of the seriousness of the terrain, descent strategy is an important part of any ascent plan.

Route Outline

Approach from the Robson area to the base of the Emperor Face
Climb the steep ice and mixed lines on the face
Continue through upper face terrain to the summit ridge
Summit of Mount Robson
Descend by the chosen descent line or retreat route

More routes on Mount Robson

Kain Route

5B | TD+/ED1 | V/VI
The Kain Route is the classic and best-known alpine route on Mount Robson. It is a serious high-mountain climb involving steep snow, ice, and mixed terrain, with objective hazard from avalanches, rockfall, and rapidly changing weather. The route is strongly condition-dependent and is often attempted only when the face is in good shape. It is one of the standard documented summit routes for the peak and is far more demanding than a hiking objective. Parties commonly rely on a bivouac or high camp in the approach area, but the exact logistics vary. The route is typically considered a major alpine undertaking rather than a straightforward glacier ascent.
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North Face

6B | ED2 | VII
The North Face of Mount Robson is a documented alpine route on the mountain and is a serious technical objective. It involves steep, exposed climbing on snow, ice, and mixed ground, with significant avalanche and rockfall exposure. The route is condition-sensitive and requires strong route-finding and sound judgment. It is not a trekking route and is intended for experienced mountaineers. As with other Robson face routes, the descent can be as consequential as the ascent. The line is part of the established climbing history of the peak.
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