The Chopping Block (Pinnacle Peak)

GETTING THERE

Drive SR 20 to Newhalem. The trailhead is on the north side of SR 20 across from the Newhalem campground at the Goodell Creek group campground. Take an immediate left after crossing Goodell Creek, keep left and pass the gravel pit. Park at the end of the road by the creek, past the campground.

approach & ascent

The Chopping Block/Northeast Ridge

A 5-pitch, 5.5, Grade II, intermediate alpine rock climb.

information for leaders

Courses, paid clinics, staff-led programs, and course field trips require a Commercial Use Authorization. The Park typically accepts applications for 2-year CUAs  through mid-March each year, and CUA's are activity-specific. Please contact info@mountaineers.org if you would like to apply for a CUA for a field trip or paid clinic for an activity we do not already have a CUA for. Please follow all Mountaineers group guidelines when leading trips or courses in North Cascades National Park. 

Notes:

• Leaders are responsible for securing backcountry permits or other required permits even if  we have a CUA.
• Leaders must have all relevant CUAs with them in paper or electronic copy to show Parks Staff as requested. 
• All Hiking course field trips or paid clinics must have a First aid and CPR certified leader. Current (non-expired) certificates must be uploaded to the park web portal by Mountaineers staff prior to the trip
• All mountaineering field trips or paid clinics must have a WFR-certified leader and a leader with documented climbing certifications (an AMGA certification OR Mountaineers climb leader with a recent resume of training and experience). Both qualifications must be uploaded to the park web portal by Mountaineers staff prior to the trip

View list of current North Cascades CUAs

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

• Difficulty: Intermediate Rock Climb
• Length: 12.5 mi
• Elevation Gain: 6,209 ft
• High Point: 6,819 ft

• Land Manager: North Cascades National Park
• Parking Permit Required: see Land Manager
• Recommended Party Size: 6
• Maximum Party Size: 6
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 6