Banshee Peak & Cowlitz Chimneys

Trip

Basic Alpine Climb - Main Cowlitz Chimney

Long ONE day climb. 18 miles RT. Planning to climb Cowlitz Main, Cowlitz Central and Banshee all in one day. Early start.

  • Basic Alpine Climb
  • Challenging
  • Mileage: 18.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 5,700 ft

Our primary focus in completing Cowlitz Main, but will also shoot for Banshee and Cowlitz Central if time permits.  This will be a very long day.  Starting around 5:45am and possible finishing at 9 or 10 pm depending on how fast the group is. 

Most of the hike will be on the wonderland trail and even to Banshee there is a good foot  path.  

Gear:

Helmet, Harness, approach shoes or boots comfortable to climb in, prusik, belay device, large pear shape carabiner, autoblock, PA, 3 locking carabiners, 10 essentials.

Will send out updated information a day or two before the climb

Will meet at Fryingpan Trailhead at 5:30 am sharp.  You can arrange carpool with those that live close to you or meet at the Safeway in Enumclaw at 4:45 am.   I may sleep at the TH. 

Need National Park Pass or Rainier Park pass

Route/Place

Banshee Peak & Cowlitz Chimneys



  • Green Trails Mount Rainier Wonderland No. 269SX

    Green Trails Mt Rainier East No. 270

    USGS Chinook Pass
  • See full route/place details.
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Required Equipment

Required Equipment

  • The Ten Essentials
  • Mountain boots that can accept crampons (not hiking boots)
  • Crampons
  • An ice axe (not technical ice tools)
  • A back pack (40 to 60 liters)
  • Webbing and accessory cords
  • 6 straight gate carabiners
  • 2 locking carabiners
  • Large pear-shaped carabiner
  • Belay device
  • Climbing harness
  • Helmet
  • Chock pick (nut tool)
  • Rescue pulley
  • Fleece or puffy jacket
  • Rain jacket and full-zip rain pants
  • Belay gloves
  • Warm gloves or mittens
Trip Reports