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- Cathedral Peak
8,603 ft · Cascade Range, Washington
Cathedral Peak
Cathedral Peak is an 8,603 ft peak in the Cascade Range, Washington. The standard route is the Southwest Slope and West Ridge: 38 mi, 6,400 ft of gain, Class 4.
Photo: Maurice King, CC BY 2.0
Cathedral Peak at a glance
- Elevation8,603 ft2,622 m
- RouteSouthwest Slope and West RidgeClass 4
- Distance38 mi6,400 ft gain
- Time3 – 4 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeCascade RangeWashington
Climbing the Southwest Slope and West Ridge
From Winthrop, drive the West Chewuch Road and FR 51 to the Andrews Creek trailhead. Hike 12 miles to Andrews Pass, descend past the Spanish Camp guard station, and take the trail to Upper Cathedral Lake, about 18 miles in. From Cathedral Pass, ducks lead up sand and granite to a notch on the west ridge, Class 3 ledges, and a famous deep cleft that you cross twice. The step across is Class 4 and many parties bring a short rope and slings. Avoid it when wet. A Northwest Forest Pass or day pass is required to park; fill out the free wilderness permit. Combine with Amphitheater Mountain.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (55–75 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
Harness
Rope
Belay Device
Carabiners
What to watch for
- Steep exposure
- Technical climbing
- Remote location
- Spotty cell reception
Quests with Cathedral Peak
Washington 100 HighestFrequently asked questions
How tall is Cathedral Peak?
Cathedral Peak is 8,603 feet (2,622 m) tall. It is in the Cascade Range, Washington.
How hard is it to climb Cathedral Peak?
The Southwest Slope and West Ridge is Class 4, which means exposed scrambling, where many parties bring a rope. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 38 miles with 6,400 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Cathedral Peak?
Most climbers plan 3 – 4 days for the Southwest Slope and West Ridge, with at least one night on the mountain.
Is Cathedral Peak dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious. 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 rope to climb Cathedral Peak?
Most parties bring one. The Southwest Slope and West Ridge is Class 4, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
When is the best time to climb Cathedral 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 Cathedral 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