🏔 Wilderness
Mount Adams Wilderness
About This Permit
At 12,281 feet, Mount Adams is the second highest peak in Washington and one of the most accessible glaciated summits in the Cascades. The South Climb route (non-technical with crampons in early season) requires a recreation.gov Cascade Volcano Pass. The summit offers views of Rainier, Hood, and St. Helens on clear days. The Yakama Nation owns southern approach lands — respect tribal boundaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mount Adams South Climb technical?
Not in the rock-climbing sense — the South Climb is a steep snow walk with no roped climbing required in normal conditions. Crampons and ice axe are strongly recommended through late July. By August the route is often snow-free but loose scree makes footing tricky.
What permit do I need for Mount Adams?
A Cascade Volcano Pass ($25/person as of 2024) is required above 7,000 ft, available on recreation.gov. A Northwest Forest Pass or interagency pass is needed for trailhead parking. Overnight wilderness camping requires a self-issued wilderness permit in addition.
How does Mount Adams compare to Mount Rainier for climbing?
Adams is less technical than Rainier but still a serious undertaking at altitude. The summit is lower, glacier travel less complex, and the permit system less restrictive — making it a popular first glaciated summit for Pacific Northwest climbers.
Key Facts
- State
- WA
- Season
- June – September (snow-free routes)
- Quota
- Cascade Volcano Pass required above 7,000 ft; no daily group quota for summit route
- Trailhead
- Cold Springs Campground (South Climb), Killen Creek (north), or King's Lake (east)
- Entry Point
- Mount Adams Wilderness, Gifford Pinchot NF
- Difficulty
- 3/5(Competitive)
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