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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Hard
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.
2,052 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
21.2 km
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.
9.5-13h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Mount Adams South Climb

Mount Adams South Climb
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Table of contents

The Mount Adams South Climb is the least technical approach, leading you to the summit over the course of 10.9mi and over 6700ft of elevation gain. While this is the least challenging way up Mount Adams, it’s still best taken on by experienced adventurers with the proper gear: ice axes, crampons, mountaineering boots, and supplies to sleep overnight at Lunch Counter if they’re attempting the hike over two days instead of one. While this hike can be done in a day, doing it over two allows you to attempt the summit in the morning when the snow is firm. Dogs are allowed on this trail but very likely won’t be able to summit with you, so we recommend leaving them at home if you intend to make a summit attempt.

Route Description for Mount Adams South Climb

If you want the easiest route up Mount Adams, the South Climb is it. Not that this trail is easy, but it’s the least technically demanding ascent. That being said, you’ll still want to be comfortable using crampons and an ice axe, navigating across snowfields, and potentially camping on the mountain for a night. The reward is a view from the second-tallest mountain in the state.

This ascent can be done in a day, but it would be an arduous day. Splitting it up over two days also allows you to make your summit push in the morning when the snow is firm. Most people camp at the Lunch Counter.

You’ll start at South Climb Trailhead, hiking up an old road bed. The first mile offers no shade, much like most of the hike. Continue past Morrison Creek, a good spot to top up your water.

The footing becomes very rocky after the creek. Make your way along carefully and begin to climb the ridgeline ahead. The elevation gain here is aggressive and you’ll likely need to navigate snowfields. At the Lunch Counter, either set up camp or just take a breather.

Past the Lunch Counter, you’ll climb to Pikers Peak. Be prepared for an aggressive climb to this false summit that can be made more difficult by high winds. You can take a break on the peak if it’s not too windy.

From Piper’s Peak, you’ll make your way up to the summit cone of Mount Adams. The air noticeably thins out as you gain elevation, so take your ascent only as fast as you safely can. From the top, gaze out over Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, Mount Rainier, and Mount St. Helens. On a clear day, the views are sublime.

From here, you’ll descend the same way you came up.

Hiking Route Highlights

Mount Adams

3,743 m Mount Adams is the second-highest mountain in Washington State. Originally named Pahto or Klickitat, it rises above the Cascade Range in the southern portion of the state. Although Mount Adams has not erupted in over 1,000 years, it’s still considered to be potentially active. The mountain was named for President John Adams.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to climb Mount Adams?

The South Climb can be done in around 10-12 hours, but most hikers split it up over two days.

Has anyone ever died on Mount Adams?

Two individuals have died on the mountain in the last 5 years. It’s a climb worthy of your preparation and care.

Can you climb Mount Adams without crampons?

While hikers have climbed Mount Adams in microspikes before, we don’t recommend coming under-prepared as the snowfields can be difficult to cross without crampons in certain conditions.

Insider Hints for Mount Adams South Climb

  • Bring lots of water and refill where you can. This trail is unshaded for lots of the climb.
  • You’ll need a Cascade Volcano Pass from May 1-September 30 if you’ll be climbing above 7000ft. You can buy one at the Mount Adams Ranger Station or the Cowlitz Valley Ranger Station.
  • If you’re not going above 7000ft, you’ll just need a Northwest Forest Pass and Wilderness Permit.

Getting to the Mount Adams South Climb Trailhead

The trailhead for the Mount Adams South Climb is on Forest Road 8040 at the old Cold Springs Camp area.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Lunch Counter Backcountry

  • When to do:

    May-September

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Mount Adams South Climb Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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