- …
- Yak
- Quests
- Washington 100 Highest
- Mount Custer
8,619 ft · Cascade Range, Washington
Mount Custer
Mount Custer is an 8,619 ft peak in the Cascade Range, Washington. The standard route is the South Ridge: 22 mi, 6,600 ft of gain, Class 3.
Mount Custer at a glance
- Elevation8,619 ft2,627 m
- RouteSouth RidgeClass 3
- Distance22 mi6,600 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeCascade RangeWashington
Climbing the South Ridge
From Chilliwack, BC, drive Chilliwack Lake Road to unsigned Depot Creek Road and park at the gate. Old roads reach the border in 2 miles, then a rough path climbs Depot Creek past the falls to camp at Ouzel Lake. Climb the wide gully to the Custer-Spickard saddle, follow the South Ridge over Point 8385 and a short knife edge, and finish up extremely loose Class 3 gullies. Test every hold and wear a helmet. US law requires entering at a port of entry, which this walk-in skips. A North Cascades backcountry permit is required; get it at the Marblemount Wilderness Information Center.
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
- Knife-edge ridge
- Steep exposure
- Complex logistics
- Remote location
Quests with Mount Custer
Washington 100 HighestFrequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Custer?
Mount Custer is 8,619 feet (2,627 m) tall. It is in the Cascade Range, Washington.
How hard is it to climb Mount Custer?
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 very hard: 22 miles with 6,600 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Mount Custer?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the South Ridge, with at least one night on the mountain.
Is Mount Custer 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 Mount Custer?
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 Mount Custer?
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 Mount Custer 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