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8,402 ft · Cascade Range, Washington

Saska Peak

Saska Peak is an 8,402 ft peak in the Cascade Range, Washington. The standard route is the South Route: 19 mi, 4,500 ft of gain, Class 3.

Saska Peak in the Cascade Range, Washington

Photo: U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region

Saska Peak at a glance

  • Elevation8,402 ft2,560 m
  • RouteSouth RouteClass 3
  • Distance19 mi4,500 ft gain
  • Time2 – 3 daysHard effort
  • SeasonJul – Oct
  • RangeCascade RangeWashington

Climbing the South Route

From Entiat on US 97A, drive the Entiat River Road about 32 miles and North Fork Road 5606 to its end. A Northwest Forest Pass is required to park. Hike North Fork Entiat Trail 1437 to the Pyramid Mountain Trail and the meadow camp southeast of the peak. Follow the trail around the south shoulder toward Saska Pass, leave it at a small rib, and climb the south slopes through minor rock bands, Class 2 to 3. Do not descend the east face toward Emerald, since it cliffs out. Some gullies are loose. Fill out the free wilderness permit. The Little Giant Fire closure shuts this road and trail through April 2027.

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
  • Rockfall
  • Steep exposure
  • Remote location

Quests with Saska Peak

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Saska Peak?

Saska Peak is 8,402 feet (2,560 m) tall. It is in the Cascade Range, Washington.

How hard is it to climb Saska Peak?

The South Route 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: 19 miles with 4,500 feet of elevation gain.

How many days does it take to climb Saska Peak?

Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the South Route, with at least one night on the mountain.

Is Saska 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 Saska Peak?

It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the South Route, so a helmet is on the gear list.

When is the best time to climb Saska Peak?

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

Climb Saska 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