Ingalls Peak

Ingalls peak offers many of the advantages of the neighboring alpine climbs in the Enchantments but without the red tape and restrictions. Accessed off I-90 through the town of Roslyn, getting to the trailhead is also much easier when coming from the west side of the Cascades. While the approach and climb are short enough to complete in a long day, backcountry camping opportunities in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness make this a lovely choice for an overnight adventure. The off-trail portion of the approach consists of slabby scrambling and relatively mellow snow travel that leads to the base of the route. Consisting of only a few easy pitches, this route is a great choice for climbers beginning to expand their comfort level in traditional alpine climbing environments.

The Ingalls Way Trail climbs steadily from Esmerelda Basin until it crosses Ingalls Pass, which provides breathtaking views of the wilderness below Ingalls Peak and the towering granite monolith of Mount Stewart. Soon thereafter options for camp can be found just off the trail. After dumping any overnight gear, continue toward Ingalls Peak and Lake Ingalls below. After leaving the trail, a short approach will lead you to the base of the technical climbing, which starts on the south side of the peak. After a few pitches of easy climbing on quality granite, the summit is reached. You'll have spectacular views across the Cascades in all directions.Rappel and reverse your path back to camp to watch the setting sunlight illuminate the granite peaks or head back to the car for the drive home.