Alpine Climb: Kaleetan Peak via Alpental - Advanced Skills **Read Description**

Join us for an early-season alpine climb to Kaleetan Peak, one of the most prominent and rewarding summits in the Snoqualmie Pass area. This route combines a long forest approach, scenic alpine lakes, snow travel, and a steep final push to the summit with expansive views. This is not a casual hike. It is a full-value alpine day involving snow scramble sections on the upper mountain.

Meet Time
7 AM (early start required for a long day)

Where to Meet Us
Issaquah Transit Center
We will carpool to Alpental. Please arrive on time so we can organize and depart efficiently.

Route Overview

• Peak Elevation: 6,224 ft
• Distance: ~12 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: ~4,500 ft
• Duration: ~8–10 hours
• Difficulty: Hard / Alpine Climb + Snow Scramble
• Route: Alpental → Snow Lake → Melakwa Lake → Kaleetan Peak

Important Notes

• This is a long and physically demanding day
• Upper mountain involves steep snow travel and snow scramble terrain (Class 2–3 depending on conditions)
• Ice axe and crampons required for the summit push
• Route finding may be necessary above Melakwa Lake
• Descent can be more hazardous than ascent depending on snow conditions
• We will check weather and avalanche conditions before the trip

Required Gear
Must have:

• Ice axe
• Crampons
• Helmet
• Mountaineering boots or rigid hiking boots (crampon compatible)
• Warm layers for winter conditions
• Food and 2–3L water
• Navigation (GPS/map)
• Trekking poles
• Goggles (wind/snow protection)
• 10 essentials

Skill Requirement

• Strong fitness for 4,500 ft gain and 12 miles
• Comfortable traveling on snow
• Familiar with ice axe use (self arrest strongly recommended)
• Prior winter or alpine experience preferred

Parking Pass
Northwest Forest Pass or Sno Park Permit required

Disclaimer
By joining, you acknowledge that this is a high risk alpine activity involving snow travel, snow scramble terrain, and changing mountain conditions. You are responsible for your own safety, gear, and decision making. Organizers are not liable for any injuries or losses.