West Crater Rim

Ratio:2:1
Length:1 day
Price:$725 per climber
Dates:Custom dates are available in May and June
Location:South side of Mount Hood

The West Crater Rim is a solid step-up in difficulty from the standard south side climb up the Old Chute or Pearly Gates. It begins to diverge from the standard route around 9,000 feet, where climbers head West to the other side of Crater Rock. In early season, 2-4 pitches of steep snow leads to a bench at just over 1o,000 feet in the upper crater.

From here, your team will traverse toward the summit rim, until it’s time to anchor off and climb more pitches of steep snow. It can steepen to nearly 50° here, as several pitches lead to the rim. A vertiginous walk along the summit ridge leads to the apex of Oregon.

We’ll descend via the south side route, mingling with the dozens of climbers on the summit.

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Interested in a trip? Call us today to get started on your trip reservation. We will take the time to place you on the expedition that is a fit for you.

(541) 312-9242

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West Crater Rim

South side of Mount Hood

The West Crater Rim is a great step up from the Old Chute. It has steeper snow and more pitches of climbing, as well as a mandatory walk along the summit ridge which catches every climbers attention. Climbers who have been on the South Side of Hood and are looking for a one-day climb to push their limits will love this route and the access from the Timberline Lodge.

Elevation:11,239 feet
Style:Steep snow and a knife edged summit ridge
Skill Level:Difficult
West Crater- Mtn
george

"I am very happy with my TMG experience. The guides were professional, personable, and extremely concerned about safety. . . I absolutely give highest marks to these guys. If you don't have much Alpine experience, or just want the security of seasoned veterans guiding you up this mountain, then I strongly recommend you sign up with them. Thanks, guys, for a great experience!!"

George C
Highland, UT
malcom

"What a fantastic experience gaining the summit of a mountain we've gazed on from Portland for 25 years! . . . We learned a great deal, had a ton of fun, felt in very capable hands, and had the reward of summiting on a beautiful clear day. The value of being with a professional, certified, guide and guiding organization was evident throughout. Kudos to the TMG team who were responsive, supportive, and fun to work with every step of the way."

Malcolm C
Portland, OR
Lucyan

"We booked 2-day overnight program on Mt. Hood with Timberline Mountain Guides. Our guides were great, . . super friendly and reputable. The program did not go as planned due to inclement weather but we still had fun and good experience. The guides were definitely flexible and provided guidance during the trip. I would recommend going with them if it's your first climbing trip on Mt. Hood for sure."

Lucyan
Portland, OR

Skill Series

Next Steps

  • The Cooper Spur longer and more sustained, with an overnight bivy to round-out the adventure
  • The Devil’s Kitchen Headwall adds alpine ice and rime-ice climbing to your resume, complementing your time on steep snow.

Know Before You Go

Prerequisites
Equipment Lists
Policies & Forms
Fitness Requirements
Travel Insurance