Silver Star Mountain/Silver Star Creek

Getting there

Drive SR-20 (North Cascades Highway) to the winter closure at Silver Star Creek (east of Washington Pass).

APPROACH

Ascend Silver Star Creek  along its east (left) side for 2 miles to a basin at 4,800 ft.  Cross the basin to its west side. Ascend towards Burgundy Col, avoiding gullies near the basin's headwall. When the slope eases, head towards Burgundy Spire. Good camping is near 6,400 feet.

ASCENT ROUTE

Make a rising traverse south to subsidiary ridge, then continue rising on Silver Star Glacier to summit col. Careful route finding allows a scramble east to summit - look for the easy ramp about 40 feet below the summit. Otherwise you may encounter a short pitch of low 5th class climbing.

DESCENT ROUTE

Descend the climbing route.

TRIP PROFILE

EQUIPMENT

Standard glacier equipment.

NOTES

• Although this can be done as a long, one-day climb, the long drive and beautiful views of the North Cascades makes a two-day climb more enjoyable.
• Pickets may be useful to protect steep exposed snow.
• Also an excellent winter or spring ski tour.

• Suitable Activities: Climbing
• Climbing Category: Basic Alpine
• Seasons: May, June, July, August, September
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Basic Alpine Climb
• Length: 8.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 5,500 ft
• High Point: 8,876 ft

• Land Manager: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forests
  Methow Valley Ranger District (OWNF)
• Parking Permit Required: Northwest Forest Pass
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12