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8,374 ft · Cascade Range, Washington

Martin Peak

Martin Peak is an 8,374 ft peak in the Cascade Range, Washington. The standard route is the North Ridge via Martin Lakes: 16 mi, 4,400 ft of gain, Class 3.

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Martin Peak in the Cascade Range, Washington

Photo: Martin Bravenboer, CC BY 2.0

Martin Peak at a glance

  • Elevation8,374 ft2,552 m
  • RouteNorth Ridge via Martin LakesClass 3
  • Distance16 mi4,400 ft gain
  • Time13 – 15 hrsHard effort
  • SeasonJun – Oct
  • RangeCascade RangeWashington

Climbing the North Ridge via Martin Lakes

From Twisp, take SR 20 and SR 153 to Gold Creek Road, then Forest Road 4340 and Crater Creek Road 4340-300 to the Crater Creek trailhead. A Northwest Forest Pass is required to park. Follow Eagle Lakes Trail 431 to the Martin Creek Trail and climb to Martin Lakes, then head off trail past the upper ponds to the North Ridge. Ledges, talus and scree lead to the crest; traverse the west side to easy Class 3 rock at the top. The East Ridge and a steep chute make a quicker descent to the lakes. These trails are open to motorcycles. Switchback Peak is a ridge walk to the south.

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

What to watch for

  • Loose rock
  • Steep exposure
  • Storms

Quests with Martin Peak

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Martin Peak?

Martin Peak is 8,374 feet (2,552 m) tall. It is in the Cascade Range, Washington.

How hard is it to climb Martin Peak?

The North Ridge via Martin Lakes 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: 16 miles with 4,400 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to climb Martin Peak?

Most people take 13 – 15 hours round trip on the North Ridge via Martin Lakes, covering 16 miles with 4,400 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.

Is Martin Peak dangerous to climb?

It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious, rockfall from loose rock and fast-changing weather. 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 Martin Peak?

It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the North Ridge via Martin Lakes, so a helmet is on the gear list.

When is the best time to climb Martin Peak?

The usual climbing window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

Climb Martin 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

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