Curriculum

The Baker Skills and Climb blends hands-on instruction with a summit attempt of Mount Baker. Over 3 or 4 days, you’ll learn the fundamental techniques required to move efficiently as a member of a guided rope team, experience glacier camping, and then put everything into practice on a real alpine climb.

This program is designed as a summit-focused skills course, not a comprehensive technical course. It will not make you an independent climber, but rather prepare you to be an effective and contributing member of a guided ascent.

Students Will Learn:

  • Travel on a rope team across glaciated terrain
  • Use an ice axe and crampons for efficient movement
  • Perform self-arrest on snow slopes
  • Communicate and operate effectively as part of a team
  • Set up and live in a high mountain camp
  • Apply these skills on a guided ascent of Mount Baker

By the end of the program, you’ll not only stand on a major summit, but also understand the rhythms, challenges, and rewards of climbing in glaciated terrain.

This program is designed for new climbers who want to experience a major glaciated peak.  This course is not intended to prepare participants to climb independently in the mountains.  Crevasse rescue practice is not included in this program. If you are interested in a more comprehensive course, please see the Alpinism 1 program page.

Details

Prerequisites

  • Good physical fitness
  • Ability to carry a 45 – 55 lb backpack for multiple hours
  • Stamina to hike for over 8 hours (including breaks, and with a lighter pack weight)
  • Ability to cook for yourself on a backpacking stove
  • Overnight backpacking experience

NOTE: If you lack overnight backpacking experience, you can add a 2-day Backpacking and Wilderness Skills program at a discounted price.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions: Included in the course cost are group technical climbing equipment like ropes and pickets, transportation to the climbing areas from AAI headquarters, all permits and camping fees, and the guide fee.

Exclusions: Not included in the course cost are all personal clothing and climbing gear, rentals, gratuities to the guide, meals while on the course, or travel insurance.

Course Options

Private Options

This program is also available as a private climb. A private trip allows you to choose your own dates, set the pace that works best for your team, and enjoy a more customized experience with your guide. It’s a great choice for families, friend groups, or anyone who wants a more personal climb of Mount Baker.

This is also a great option if you prefer to do a particular route on Mt. Baker or a more technical route.

Three or Four Days

We offer 3- and 4-day Mt. Baker climbs to give climbers flexibility and a more custom experience on the mountain. The extra day allows the summit push to be broken up from the hike out, letting you move at a more relaxed pace and enjoy more time on the mountain. A four-day itinerary also provides an additional buffer for weather.  Both options are excellent.  It’s simply a matter of choosing the pace that’s right for you.

Mt. Baker’s Many Routes

Mt. Baker offers multiple routes to the summit. Our Baker Skills and Climb course usually follows one of the three standard routes: the Easton, Squak, or Coleman-Deming. For more experienced climbers seeking a private guided trip, we can also arrange ascents via other challenging routes like the North Ridge, tailored to your skill level and objectives.  You can read more about each route on Mt. Baker here.

When to Climb Mt. Baker

Every month on Mt. Baker tells a different story. Early, mid, and late summer each bring unique conditions that affect your climb. See how the season you choose can shape your route, snow conditions, and overall experience in this article.

Porter Service

We also offer a porter program for individuals who require physical assistance.