South Face

This is the standard and most commonly documented mountaineering route on Mount Adams. It is a long, non-technical alpine climb that is usually done on snow in season, but it can involve loose volcanic rock and scree lower on the mountain. The route is straightforward in line-finding compared with the other major routes on the peak, but it is physically demanding because of the large elevation gain. In early season it is often climbed with crampons and an ice axe, and later in summer it may become a steep snow-and-scree ascent. Avalanche hazard can be significant when the route is snow-covered, especially on the upper mountain. Navigation and weather exposure are the main objective concerns rather than technical climbing difficulty.

The North Cleaver is a documented alpine route on Mount Adams and is one of the more serious lines on the mountain. It typically involves steep snow and mixed climbing on volcanic terrain, with route conditions depending strongly on season and snowpack. The route is more exposed and committing than the standard South Climb. Loose rock and changing snow conditions are common hazards. It is best regarded as a mountaineering objective rather than a simple snow hike. Good route-finding and comfort on steep alpine terrain are important.