Whatcom Peak

Description

Whatcom Peak is one of the peaks in the remote Picket Range which takes you deep into North Cascades National Park. The vista from the summit offers close-up views of Mount Challenger. From Bellingham, WA, drive the Mt. Baker Highway to the turnoff to Hannegan campground. At road's end is the campground and the trailhead for Hannegan Pass. It's about 4-5 miles and about 2000 feet elevation gain to Hannegan Pass. From the pass the trail drops down the Hannegan Whatcom Trail to Boundary Camp about a mile on the east side of the pass. The trail continues for several miles in a deep forested valley to a crossing of the Chilliwack River, and a little over a mile later joins with the Brush Creek Trail. Five miles up Brush Creek Trail you emerge from the forest to reach Whatcom Pass at elevation 5206 feet. From the pass follow a climber's path south as it begins the ascent of the North Ridge of Whatcom Peak. Rock is quartz diorite.

Refer to Fred Beckey's Cascade Alpine Guide, Volume 3, for information on the other established climbing route up the south slope via Perfect Pass.

Thanks to theyogiclimber for this description.