Mount Shasta is located in Northern California, 274 miles North of San
Francisco. Permanently snow-capped and appearing perfectly conical from a
distance, Mt. Shasta is a dormant volcano with a 17 mile diameter base and is
14,162 feet above sea. Geologically speaking, Mt. Shasta is a stratovolcano,
with four cones buried atop one another. It is a beacon for north California,
drawing many visitors to its extensive slopes.
Climbing Mount Shasta, California:
ALWAYS check the weather before you ski or climb.
Most people climb this beautiful mountain in Summer time April to October.
Although there are over 15 established routed with variety variations and level
of difficulty. The most popular route being John Muir Route / Avalanche Gulch,
which involves 6,300 ft of climb over over snowfields and moraines. It usually
takes one or two days to reach the summit. Inexperienced tourists/climbers
usually stick on to the trails on base of the mountain or go with experienced
climbers. California ranger's climbing advisory can be found by calling (530)
926-9613 / (530) 926-4511. Please call the ranger station to get advice
about loose rocks, ice, snow or any other safety warnings. Every year few people
are rescued as they get stranded on the mountain. There are several restaurants
and lodges close to mount Shasta.
You are advised to get the Mt. Shasta Wilderness Recreation Map which contains
information about climbing routes, trails, safety and other useful information.
You can call Fifth Season Store at (530) 926-3606. Great sites for
additional and most accurate information are climbingmtshasta.org and
shastaavalanche.org for more information.
When you arrive at Mt. Shasta you will need to obtain a Summit Pass and a
Wilderness Permit before you climb the mountain. Mt. Shasta Ranger station is
open 24 hours a day, summit Passes cost $20 dollars per person and are
valid for three days. There are numerous campsites at Lake Helen and Horse Camp.
You will need at least the following equipment to climb for all routes - an ice
axe, crampons and a climbing helmet. Weather conditions can change rapidly at
any time of the year.
Photos / Pictures of Mount Shasta
