Mount Shuksan via the Fischer Chimneys Approach

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
10-14h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
25.3 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,940 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

Mount Shuksan via the Fischer Chimneys Approach is a 25.3 km mountaineering route in the North Cascades that is loved by many for its beauty but certainly not accessible to most due to its difficulty. This is a route that requires proper mountaineering experience, equipment, and preparation.

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Route Description for Mount Shuksan via the Fischer Chimneys Approach

Mount Shuksan via the Fischer Chimneys is regarded as a favorite mountaineering route for many adventurers in Washington. That being said, this route should only be attempted by experienced mountaineers who are comfortable with glacier travel, crevasse rescue, scrambling, routefinding, and more.

Begin from the Lake Ann trailhead. On the ridge above the lake, take a left around the shoulder. You’ll switchback and cross talus slopes before scrambling up a dry waterfall. At the far end of the talus slope, the chimney can be found, although it’s not obvious.

The chimney ascent is exposed and steep. You’ll then scramble through a gully and then up the ridgetop. You’ll cross a snowfield and approach Winnie’s Slide, a steep snowy and icy section. From here it’s across three glaciers to the summit pyramid. You’ll scramble up the summit, which reaches Class IV.

To return, it’s back the same way you came.

Getting to the Mount Shuksan via the Fischer Chimneys Approach Trailhead

The trailhead for the Mount Shuksan via the Fischer Chimneys Approach is at the Lake Ann trailhead off Mount Baker Highway.

Route Information

  • When to do

    June-September

  • Backcountry Campsites

    Various backcountry

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Mount Shuksan via the Fischer Chimneys Approach Elevation Graph

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Mount Shuksan via the Fischer Chimneys Approach Reviews

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