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

Join us for an early-season alpine scramble 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
Eastgate PnR. We will carpool to the Denny Creek trailead. Please arrive on time so we can organize and depart efficiently.

Route Overview

• https://www.peakbagger.com/climber/ascent.aspx?aid=2922927
• Peak Elevation: 6,224 ft
• Distance: ~12 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: ~4,500 ft
• Duration: ~8–10 hours
• Difficulty: Hard / Alpine snow and rock scramble
• Route: Denny Creek → Melakwa Lake → Melakwa Pass → White Ledges → Kaleetan Peak
• Return the same way or the standard route back to the lake and out.

Route Details from Melakwa Pass:
The following steps outline the approach and ascent from Melakwa pass:

1. Traverse from Melakwa Pass: From the saddle of Melakwa Pass, turn left (west) and continue across a steep boulder field.
2. Ascend White Ledges: Head toward the "white ledges" located beneath the southeast shoulder of Kaleetan Peak. Ascend these narrow, steep ledges to reach the ridgeline.
3. Cross the South Flank: Once above the ledges, follow a faint way trail through the scree field on the peak's south flank.
4. Final Summit Scramble: The final ascent is through a steep, loose gully. This section is a Class 2-3 scramble with stable handholds on the rock but significant loose dirt and scree; staying on the rock to the right is often recommended for better stability.

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 water for the day
• Navigation (GPS/map)
• Trekking poles
• Wind and sun 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.
Co-ordinates: 47.4152, -121.4433

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.