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- Washington 100 Highest
- Black Peak
8,988 ft · Cascade Range, Washington
Black Peak
Black Peak is an 8,988 ft peak in the Cascade Range, Washington. The standard route is the South Ridge: 11 mi, 5,000 ft of gain, Class 3.
Black Peak at a glance
- Elevation8,988 ft2,739 m
- RouteSouth RidgeClass 3
- Distance11 mi5,000 ft gain
- Time10 – 12 hrsHard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeCascade RangeWashington
Climbing the South Ridge
From Winthrop, drive SR 20 west about 35 miles to Rainy Pass and park in the south lot for the Lake Ann and Maple Pass trails. Climb toward Heather Pass, then take the climbers path west across two talus fields above Lewis Lake and up a larch moraine to Wing Lake. Climb a talus and snow gully to the south col, follow loose gullies just west of the crest, and traverse ledges to a Class 3 finish on the east side. Rock is very loose, so wear helmets and keep parties close. A Northwest Forest Pass is required, and camping at Wing Lake needs a North Cascades backcountry permit.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (35–55 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
Helmet
What to watch for
- Loose rock
- Rockfall
- Steep exposure
- Slippery terrain
Quests with Black Peak
Washington 100 HighestFrequently asked questions
How tall is Black Peak?
Black Peak is 8,988 feet (2,739 m) tall. It is in the Cascade Range, Washington.
How hard is it to climb Black Peak?
The South Ridge is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 11 miles with 5,000 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Black Peak?
Most people take 10 – 12 hours round trip on the South Ridge, covering 11 miles with 5,000 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Black Peak dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious and rockfall from loose rock. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.
Do you need a helmet for Black Peak?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the South Ridge, so a helmet is on the gear list.
When is the best time to climb Black Peak?
The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Black Peak with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list