For over 15 years, we have been guiding climbers to the summit of Mount Shasta. With more than 70 successful summits, your guide Shane brings unmatched experience and knowledge of the mountain. Join us and see firsthand the difference a personally guided trip makes.

This three-day program takes you to the summit of Mount Shasta via the Clear Creek route. Starting from the remote Clear Creek Trailhead on the mountain’s east side, the climb begins in old-growth Shasta Red Fir before transitioning to open alpine terrain. The route is considered less technical than Avalanche Gulch, but no ascent of Mount Shasta should be underestimated. The Clear Creek route is physically demanding, and the ability to push through long days at high altitude.

Expect long stretches of scree, snow slopes, and a final steep rocky headwall guarding the summit. Ice axe and crampons are still required, as snowfields often linger well into the season. Success depends on your ability to maintain a steady uphill pace and arriving prepared for thousands of vertical feet of climbing.

Climbing Mount Shasta by any route is a demanding ascent that requires discipline, accountability, and grit. Those who arrive prepared will find the Clear Creek route deeply rewarding, with standing on the summit as a true personal achievement. There is no easy way to the top!

All Trips Include: 

• All mountaineering and overnight gear (except boots and clothing). Mountaineering boots can be rented locally if needed, from the 5th Season gear shop in Mt Shasta City.
• Technical equipment provided free of charge: crampons, climbing helmet, ice axe, harness, carabiners, adjustable hiking poles, mountaineering backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, headlamp, insulated mug, water bottles, lightweight bowl, and utensils.
• Group camping gear including tents, stoves, and cooking equipment.
• Meals on the mountain: all breakfasts and dinners are included and prepared by your guide. Climbers are responsible for bringing their own snacks and supplemental food.
• Permits: USFS Mt. Shasta Summit Passes and Wilderness Permits are included.
• Human waste pack-out bags are provided and required for use in the Mt. Shasta Wilderness Area.

Itinerary: 

Day 1 – Approach & Camp Setup
Meet at 8am in Mount Shasta City at Shastice Park for a gear check. After final preparations, we’ll drive to the Clear Creek Trailhead and begin the approach to high camp around 8,600 feet. The hike gains over 2,500 feet of elevation and establishes our base for the summit climb. Camp is set near treeline with access to a natural spring water source. In the afternoon, we’ll review ice axe and crampon techniques before turning in early to prepare for summit day.

Day 2 – Summit Attempt
Summit day begins before dawn, typically around 2am. Expect cold, steep, and physically demanding conditions. Our goal is to climb through snowfields, scree slopes, and the final rocky headwall to reach the summit by late morning. Though the Clear Creek route has fewer objective hazards than Avalanche Gulch, the ascent is still strenuous and requires a disciplined pace and steady effort. After celebrating the summit, we’ll descend thousands of vertical feet back to camp by mid-afternoon for our final night on the mountain.

Day 3 – Descent & Departure
After a hot breakfast and a more relaxed morning, we’ll break down camp and begin our descent to the Clear Creek Trailhead. Expect another long downhill hike with heavy packs. Our goal is to return to the trailhead around midday, completing the journey with time to reflect on the climb and celebrate the accomplishment of summiting Mount Shasta.

Documents for download: Detailed Trip Itinerary, Gear List