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Upcoming activity

Mount Thielsen Climb

  • Start date: 06/20/2026

  • Start time: 12:00 AM

  • End date: 06/20/2026

  • End time: 11:59 PM

Description:

We will be ascending the iconic West Ridge of Mt. Thielsen, a peak famously dubbed the "Lightning Rod of the Cascades." Known for its dramatic, needle-like summit block, this volcanic spire offers unparalleled views but demands respect. While the West Ridge is the most accessible route, all paths up Mt. Thielsen feature significant exposure and serious hazards, including lightning, rockfall, and steep ice. Approach this magnificent peak prepared and cautious.

Participants need technical rock climbing skills.

NOTE: Members can sign up 30 days before the climb opens; non-member sign up begins 2 weeks beforehand.

We will be ascending Mount Thielsen via the West Ridge. More information on the route can be found here: https://www.summitpost.org/west-ridge/155580. It is close to 4000’ elevation gain and 10 miles round trip. The last 100’ are on fairly good rock. We will have fixed ropes to ascend the summit pitch and then we’ll rappel down at the end.
The climb will start at 5:00 AM so climbers may want to camp at the trailhead the night before. A Northwest Forest Pass is required at the trailhead.

Mt Thielsen 2023

Photo by: Jamie Sullivan

  • Event Leader: Jamie Sullivan

  • Event Leader Phone: 541-517-4442

  • Event Leader Email: Sullijam@gmail.com

  • Assistant Leader: Steve Davis

  • Event category: Climbs

  • Area Type: Mountain

  • Departure Location:

  • Rating: Difficult

  • Roundtrip total drive miles: 260

  • Season: 2026

  • Permits Required:

  • Event Status: Upcoming

  • Supplies and Equipment Required: Comfortable hiking boots (not stiff), Light hikers ok, Helmet, Belay/rappel device, Climbing Harness, 3 carabiners (locking), 2 prusiks, at least 1 personal anchor, Backpack (large enough to carry your gear and group gear), Synthetic quick pants, drying t-shirt and long-sleeve shirt, Thick fleece/puffy, Lightweight Shell jacket and pants, Socks-wool or synthetic, Lightweight gloves, Warm hat- needs to fit under helmet, Sun hat, Headlamp and extra batteries, Sunglasses, Water (2 liters minimum), Food, Emergency Kit (whistle, space blanket, knife, lighter, map, compass, GPS), Sunscreen, Bug Spray (Deet), Lip balm, Toilet paper and baggies for used TP, personal first aid- ibuprofen, moleskin, etc, Trekking poles for hike in (nice to have)

  • participant prerequisites: Participants must be in good physical condition and able to climb 5.2 rock on a fixed line as well as know how to rappel.

  • Conditions:

  • Total Distance: 10

  • Member Fees: —

  • Elevation Gain: 3800

  • Non-Member Fees: 30

  • Committee: Climbs

  • Junior member fees: —

Gallery

Mt Thielsen 2023