Black Peak (2-day Backpack)

Join me on a trip to Black Peak in the North Cascades.

Distance: 11 miles
Elevation Gain: 5,100 ft
Difficulty: Very hard

At 8,986 ft. Black Peak is the 16th highest summit in the state, and one of the more manageable peaks on the famous Bulger List. Starting out on the same trail as the popular Heather Maple Pass, we will soon leave the crowds of hikers and make for Lewis and then Wing Lake. After placing our camp at Wing Lake, the climb up to Black Peak occurs in several stages. The first step is a climb on loose gravel up to the saddle on the south ridge. Next is some relatively simple class 2-3 scrambling up to the false summit. The most difficult part of the route happens last, with a class 3+ section at the summit block. From the top, we can look out on all the peaks of the North Cascades, and maybe take in some early Larch colors as a bonus.

By most descriptions, this hike is non-technical but does involve some exposed scrambling, mostly in the last section right below the summit. You will also need all the gear necessary for backpacking and the ability to carry it (30+ lbs). It’s not summer anymore, so be prepared for cold temperatures at night and near the summit.

We will do this hike in two days.
Day One:
Leave Seattle and drive to the trail. Hike to Wing Lake at 7,000 ft and put up our tents. Ideally, we will lighten our loads and then continue up to the summit on the afternoon of the first day, before returning to camp.

Day Two:
If we do not summit the first day, we will wake up early and make for the peak. If we have already made the climb, then we can get going at a leisurely pace and take a lap around Heather Maple Pass on the way back to the cars.
Alltrails route is here:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/black-peak-via-wing-lake-trail--2

Gear list:
Hiking Poles
Warm clothes with multiple layers
Helmet
Headlamp
Water
Food
GPS
Tent*
Sleeping Bag (rated to at least 30 F)
Sleeping Pad
Stove and Fuel
Pot and eating utensil
Sanitary Supplies (bring a WAG bag)
Bear Canister*
Any other ten essentials

*Starred items can be shared, most other things are individual.

Everyone will start out on the waitlist. Preference will be given to people I’ve hiked with in the past.

The weather forecast looks ok right now for Saturday, but I will keep track of the weather (and fires). If the weather in the North Cascades looks sketchy, we will try a backpack in the Goat Rocks (possibly Gilbert Peak) instead.

Riders will reimburse their drivers for gas.
Important: I am not a guide and this is not a guided trip. You and yourself alone are responsible for your own safety. Please know your abilities before signing up.