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8,728 ft · Cascade Range, Washington

Robinson Mountain

Robinson Mountain is an 8,728 ft peak in the Cascade Range, Washington. The standard route is the Southeast Ridge via Beauty Creek: 14 mi, 6,400 ft of gain, Class 3.

Robinson Mountain in the Cascade Range, Washington

Robinson Mountain at a glance

  • Elevation8,728 ft2,660 m
  • RouteSoutheast Ridge via Beauty CreekClass 3
  • Distance14 mi6,400 ft gain
  • Time13 – 15 hrsHard effort
  • SeasonJun – Oct
  • RangeCascade RangeWashington

Climbing the Southeast Ridge via Beauty Creek

From Mazama, drive Lost River Road about 9 miles to the Robinson Creek trailhead. Hike the Robinson Creek trail 2.8 miles to the Beauty Creek bridge, then turn right onto the unsigned, steep Beauty Creek path. After the big tributary crossing near 5,250 ft, climb meadows northwest to a tarn, the last reliable water. Grind up scree to the southeast ridge and follow it a mile over false summits to a short exposed Class 3 step just below the top. The south side bakes in summer, so carry plenty of water. A Northwest Forest Pass or day pass is required to park; fill out the free wilderness 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
  • Knife-edge ridge
  • Dry conditions
  • Steep exposure

Quests with Robinson Mountain

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Robinson Mountain?

Robinson Mountain is 8,728 feet (2,660 m) tall. It is in the Cascade Range, Washington.

How hard is it to climb Robinson Mountain?

The Southeast Ridge via Beauty Creek 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: 14 miles with 6,400 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to climb Robinson Mountain?

Most people take 13 – 15 hours round trip on the Southeast Ridge via Beauty Creek, covering 14 miles with 6,400 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.

Is Robinson Mountain 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 Robinson Mountain?

It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the Southeast Ridge via Beauty Creek, so a helmet is on the gear list.

When is the best time to climb Robinson Mountain?

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 Robinson Mountain 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