Klawatti, Austera, Primus, and Dorado Needle | WA100: Peak 15-18/100
Peaks 15-18 (of 100) of the WA100 Project!
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Dorado Needle, Klawatti Peak, Austera Peak, and Primus Peak are located on the traditional lands of the Sauk Suiattle, Syilx (Okanagan), Nlaka’pamux, Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla among other Indigenous Peoples, past and present.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:
During this project, I will collaborate with local and national nonprofit groups to spread awareness, to fundraise, to highlight their mission and programs, and sometimes to join representatives of these groups in climbing. My nonprofits will include groups that serve women in the outdoors; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color climbers; LGBTQ+ adventurers, and other underserved and underrepresented group members.
Washington’s National Park Fund (WNPF) is the official philanthropic partner to Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks. WNPF raises private support to preserve and protect these parks. Through its Embracing Inclusion priority pillar, it is enabling the support of programs that promote park access by underrepresented and historically marginalized communities.
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the 2023-24 climbings seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.
Gardner & North Gardner Mountains | WA100: Peak 13-14/100
Peaks 13 & 14 of the WA100 Project! A two-day mission in the greater Methow Valley to climb 8898-foot Gardner Mountain and 8956-foot North Gardner Mountain, the 22nd and 20th highest peaks, respectively, on the Bulger List. A long but non-technical scramble of 27 miles with 8,100 feet of gain.
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Gardner Mountain and North Gardner Mountain are located on the traditional lands of the Nlaka’pamux, Methow, Cayuse, Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Syilx (Okanagan), among other Indigenous Peoples, past and present.
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A two-day mission in the greater Methow Valley to climb 8898-foot Gardner Mountain and 8956-foot North Gardner Mountain, the 22nd and 20th highest peaks, respectively, on the Bulger List. A long but non-technical scramble of 27 miles with 8,100 feet of gain.
For the trip, I was joined by Patrick Leahy, a resident of the Methow Valley who has completed the Bulger List and is currently working on the “T200” list, the next 100 peaks.
Fresh lupine fields along the Wolf Creek trail, en route to Gardner Meadows.
Starting the ascent from Gardner Meadows, aiming for the summit of Gardner by sunset, day 1.
Looking back at the north slopes of Abernathy Ridge (the right point of which is Abernathy Peak proper, another peak on the Bulger List).
Patrick scouting potential water sources as we gain the upper section of Gardner mountain.
The final steps to the high point on Gardner Mountain.
On the summit! The 13th peak of the #WA100Project.
Fading light as seen from the summit Gardner Mountain.
Deciding to descend and traverse to Point 8487 to find a decent camp spot for the night and be within striking distance of our climbing for the morning.
Class 2 and 3 terrain en route to Point 8487 (where we’d camp for night 1).
Our humble bivy camp on Point 8487. The flattened scree made for a fine bed.
The fading colors of blue hour lighting up the waves of peaks and ridge lines. Kulshan pictured in the left background.
By morning, I found myself moving north toward North Gardner Mountain. The morning glow appeared while traveling on the ridge a few hundred feet below the summit.
Looking west at the dappled light hitting numerous ridge lines, including Goode Mountain.
On the summit of North Gardner! Light-painted mountains and wind-sculpted hair.
Stepping off the summit of North Garnder and starting the long trek down and out.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:
During this project, I will collaborate with local and national nonprofit groups to spread awareness, to fundraise, to highlight their mission and programs, and sometimes to join representatives of these groups in climbing. My nonprofits will include groups that serve women in the outdoors; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color climbers; LGBTQ+ adventurers, and other underserved and underrepresented group members.
Washington Trails Association (WTA) mobilizes hikers and everyone who loves the outdoors to explore, steward, and champion trails and public lands. Through its “Trails for Everyone” initiative, it’s fighting to create safe, welcoming, and inclusive experiences on trail. Because trails and access to the outdoors are a must-have.
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the 2023-24 climbings seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.
Colchuck Peak | WA100: Peak 12/100
Peaks 12 (of 100) of the WA100 Project!
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Colchuck Peak is located on the traditional lands of the Wenatchi, Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla, and Yakama, among other Indigenous Peoples, past and present.
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The 33rd highest peak on the Bulger List is a prominent peak in the Stuart Range. I joined my friend and fellow photographer Joe Tobiason for this one, approaching via Colchuck Lake and taking the Colchuck Glacier route.
Crossing the iconic log bridge over Mountaineer Creek on the way up to Colchuck Lake and our route up the peak.
First sighting of our objective, Colchuck Peak. We planned to ascend the snowfields beneath it to reach the col connecting the peak and nearby Dragontail Peak (out of frame, left).
Ascending the boulder fields up from Colchuck Lake to reach the consistent snow.
The wide snowy basin at 6400 feet elevation.
Looking back down at Colchuck Lake, and its fantastic turquoise swirls.
The patterns and striations on the rock at the base of the Dragontail’s north face kept my eyes fully engaged.
Nearing the 8000 foot col, also known as Banshee Pass, which gave access to the scramble route up to the summit.
The final 15 feet of scrambling to Colchuck’s summit proper.
Summit selfie, a custom of my previous 50 PEAKS project and the current project.
Joe on the summit proper, with views of Mount Stuart in the background.
A close-up of Argonaut Peak immediately to the south, yet another peak I will be climbing for this project.
While there wasn’t visibility to see Mount Rainier from the summit, we did spot this view back at Banshee Pass. We were pleased Tahoma made her appearance, despite a little late.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:
During this project, I will collaborate with local and national nonprofit groups to spread awareness, to fundraise, to highlight their mission and programs, and sometimes to join representatives of these groups in climbing. My nonprofits will include groups that serve women in the outdoors; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color climbers; LGBTQ+ adventurers, and other underserved and underrepresented group members.
Washington Trails Association (WTA) mobilizes hikers and everyone who loves the outdoors to explore, steward, and champion trails and public lands. Through its “Trails for Everyone” initiative, it’s fighting to create safe, welcoming, and inclusive experiences on trail. Because trails and access to the outdoors are a must-have.
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the 2023-24 climbings seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.
Little Tahoma | WA100: Peak 11/100
Peak 11 (of 100) of the WA100 Project!
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Little Tahoma is located on the traditional lands of the Puyallup, Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla lands, among other Indigenous Peoples, past and present.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:
During this project, I will collaborate with local and national nonprofit groups to spread awareness, to fundraise, to highlight their mission and programs, and sometimes to join representatives of these groups in climbing. My nonprofits will include groups that serve women in the outdoors; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color climbers; LGBTQ+ adventurers, and other underserved and underrepresented group members.
SheJumps increases the participation of women and girls in outdoor activities to foster confidence, leadership, and connection to nature and community. SheJumps believes growth is in our nature, but fear of stereotypes, failure, rejection, labels, etc—those spoken over us, spoken inside of us and what we’ve believed—limit our growth. SheJumps helps women and girls take risks in the outdoors to enable them to break through fears and internal/external barriers in life so they can grow to their full potential.
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the 2023-24 climbings seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.
Snowfield Peak | WA100: Peak 10/100
Peak 10 (of 100) of the WA100 Project! For my tenth peak of this project, I had the privilege of visiting this truly unique peak in a magical zone. Joined by my good friends @kimberbelle @pnw_dentist and @mitchpittman, the adventure took us through jungle like forests, across snow slopes, next to incredible waterfalls, and over sweeping glaciers. And we even witnessed a surprise inversion when we reached the summit. Even when returning to a peak I’ve visited before in a park and range I’ve spent the last decade documenting, I’m still amazed at how one’s connection with a local landscape can continue to grow and deepen. And that connection is a special thing I hold dear.
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Snowfield Peak is located on the traditional lands of the Sauk Suiattle, Syilx (Okanagan), Nlaka’pamux, among other Indigenous Peoples, past and present.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:
During this project, I will collaborate with local and national nonprofit groups to spread awareness, to fundraise, to highlight their mission and programs, and sometimes to join representatives of these groups in climbing. My nonprofits will include groups that serve women in the outdoors; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color climbers; LGBTQ+ adventurers, and other underserved and underrepresented group members.
Washington’s National Park Fund (WNPF) is the official philanthropic partner to Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks. WNPF raises private support to preserve and protect these parks. Through its Embracing Inclusion priority pillar, it is enabling the support of programs that promote park access by underrepresented and historically marginalized communities.
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the 2023-24 climbings seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.
Tahoma (Mt. Rainier) | WA100: Peak 9/100
Peak 9 (of 100) of the WA100 Project! Tahoma, also known as Mount Rainier, is the tallest peak in the state. This was my second ever summit of this volcano (my first was in 2015). This time I joined @nomadikmax and @cobikrumholz up the Emmons-Winthrop route, and it was a day-into-night-into-day experience that will stick with me for for years. Much gratitude and respect to Max (@nomadikmax) for representing and leading on a mountain that is beyond special to him and so many others.
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Tahoma (Mount Rainier) is located on the traditional lands of the Puyallup, Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla lands, among other Indigenous Peoples, past and present.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:
During this project, I will collaborate with local and national nonprofit groups to spread awareness, to fundraise, to highlight their mission and programs, and sometimes to join representatives of these groups in climbing. My nonprofits will include groups that serve women in the outdoors; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color climbers; LGBTQ+ adventurers, and other underserved and underrepresented group members.
Soul Trak Outdoors is a Washington D.C.-based nonprofit organization that connects communities of color to outdoor spaces while also building a coalition of diverse outdoor leaders. The organization runs a variety of programs that reach youth, college students, and adults within the community who are seeking opportunities for new adventures and knowledge.
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the 2023-24 climbings seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.
Robinson Mountain | WA100: Peak 8/100
Peak 8 (of 100) of the WA100 Project!
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Robinson Mountain is located on the traditional lands of the Methow, Nlaka’pamux, Cayuse, Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Syilx (Okanagan) Peoples, past and present.
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the next two seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.
Big Snagtooth | WA100: Peak 7/100
Peak 7 (of 100) of the WA100 Project!
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This peak is located on the traditional lands of the Methow, Nlaka’pamux, Cayuse, Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Syilx (Okanagan) Peoples, past and present.
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the 2023-24 climbings seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.
Cashmere Mountain | WA100: Peak 6/100
Peak 6 (of 100) of the WA100 Project! The 58th highest peak in the state is a massive one, spanning 6 miles at its base and rising over 6000 feet above the main roadside creek drainage below. Late last week I got the chance to join Portland-based photographer, Daniel Fowler (@downtofowler) for a one day mission to attempt it. This outing had so many things that make a climb great (to me): big numbers, a variety of terrain, risk assessment, and most importantly, the shared experience of moving up a worthy peak and good conversation about important topics and work to be done. Daniel, honored to climb with you! All, check out @downtofowler’s work, I’ve been a big fan of his for some time and I know you will too.
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Cashmere Mountain is located on the traditional lands of the Wenatchi, Cayuse, Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Yakama Peoples, past and present.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:
During this project, I will collaborate with local and national nonprofit groups to spread awareness, to fundraise, to highlight their mission and programs, and sometimes to join representatives of these groups in climbing. My nonprofits will include groups that serve women in the outdoors; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color climbers; LGBTQ+ adventurers, and other underserved and underrepresented group members.
Climbers of Color (CoC) is a Washington State nonprofit organization with the mission to increase access to climbing for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color by providing educational courses and supportive mentorship to leaders of color in the climbing community. To accomplish its mission, Climbers of Color provides supportive mentorship, technical training and access to key resources including gear and scholarships.
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the 2023-24 climbings seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.
Big Craggy & West Craggy | WA100: Peaks 4-5/100
Peaks 4 & 5 (of 100) of the WA100 Project!
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Big Craggy & West Craggy (the Craggies) are located on the traditional lands of the Nlaka’pamux, Methow, Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla, and Syilx (Okanagan), among other Indigenous Peoples, past and present.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:
During this project, I will collaborate with local and national nonprofit groups to spread awareness, to fundraise, to highlight their mission and programs, and sometimes to join representatives of these groups in climbing. My nonprofits will include groups that serve women in the outdoors; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color climbers; LGBTQ+ adventurers, and other underserved and underrepresented group members.
Washington Trails Association (WTA) mobilizes hikers and everyone who loves the outdoors to explore, steward, and champion trails and public lands. Through its “Trails for Everyone” initiative, it’s fighting to create safe, welcoming, and inclusive experiences on trail. Because trails and access to the outdoors are a must-have.
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the 2023-24 climbings seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.
Abernathy Peak | WA100: Peak 3/100
Peak 3 (of 100) of the WA100 Project! An early morning alpine start to climb to the summit of Abernathy Peak.
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Abernathy Peak is located on the traditional lands of the Nlaka’pamux, Methow, Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla, and Syilx (Okanagan), among other Indigenous Peoples, past and present.
A mid-spring solo climb up this 8321-foot peak, situated along Abernathy Ridge and above Scatter Lake, and accessed via the Twisp River area along the Cascade’s east slopes.
I started from the Trailhead dark and early. At 1:30 a.m. to be exact. My hope was to catch sunrise from the upper section of the mountain where the surrounding mountain layers unfold.
Staring up at a sky full of stars following my early alpine start up Abernathy Peak.
Under a sky full of stars, I quickly made my way up the Scatter Creek Trail, which reaches Scatter Lake in just over four miles and 3,850 feet of elevation gain.
Just past 4 a.m., I arrived at the partially ice-covered Scatter Lake and laid eyes on my objective reflecting in the open water.
I then wrapped around the lake’s north shoreline and began the final 1200-foot ascent, aiming at the summit situated at the head of the upper basin cradling the lake.
Within the last thousand feet to the summit, view of the mountains and ridge lines to the east and south unfolded in the pre-dawn light. To my surprise, the sky was quite hazy from (what I’d later learn were) wildfires in British Columbia.
Around 8200 feet elevation, I was directly east of the summit proper, just a few hundred feet away. I transitioned from snow to scree/talus, class 2 terrain. Within minutes I found myself on the highest point standing next to the summit register.
The summit register for Abernathy Peak.
Summit views looking northwest toward Silver Star Mountain, a 8876-foot Bulger peak that I’d go on to climb almost one year later, in April 2024.
Summit views looking south-southwest toward Reynolds Peak, yet another Bulger peak. Between Reynold’s twin summits, the left (southeast) peak is the proper highpoint, which I’d later reach in the fall of 2023.
After a short stay on the summit, I turned around and quickly descended the upper basin, plunge stepping where the snow allowed. Back at the lake, I stopped at the outlet for one last glance and photo of the peak. From the lake, my hike out transitioned from snow back to dry trail lined with lush greenery and wildflowers.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:
During this project, I will collaborate with local and national nonprofit groups to spread awareness, to fundraise, to highlight their mission and programs, and sometimes to join representatives of these groups in climbing. My nonprofits will include groups that serve women in the outdoors; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color climbers; LGBTQ+ adventurers, and other underserved and underrepresented group members.
Washington Trails Association (WTA) mobilizes hikers and everyone who loves the outdoors to explore, steward, and champion trails and public lands. Through its “Trails for Everyone” initiative, it’s fighting to create safe, welcoming, and inclusive experiences on trail. Because trails and access to the outdoors are a must-have.
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the 2023-24 climbings seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.
Kulshan (Mt. Baker) | WA100: Peak 2/100
Peak 2 (of 100) of the WA100 Project! A ski ascent/descent of Kulshan (Mt. Baker), the third highest mountain in the state, on May 20-21, 2023. Personally, Kulshan was my first big volcano back in 2014, climbed as a sort of graduation climbs as part of the Washington Alpine Climb. I hadn't returned to the summit, until now. What a privilege to climb with two dear friends, Alpinist and Adaptive Climber Kimber Cross, and Elite Survivalist, Photographer, and Snowboarder Max Djenohan.
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Kulshan (Mount Baker) is located on the traditional lands of the Nooksack, Nlaka’pamux, Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla Peoples, past and present.
The south flank of Kulshan, also known as Mount Baker, the third highest mountain in Washington State
A ski ascent/descent of Kulshan (Mt. Baker), the third highest mountain in the state, on May 20-21, 2023. Personally, Kulshan was my first big volcano back in 2014, climbed as a graduation climb to conclude my basic mountaineering course with the Washington Alpine Climb. I hadn't returned to the summit, until now.
What a privilege to climb with two dear friends, Alpinist and Adaptive Climber Kimber Cross, and Elite Survivalist, Photographer, and Snowboarder Max Djenohan.
Kimber and I approached via the Park Butte trailhead and Railroad Grade route, in search of our base camp, knowing that Max would approach at sunset and join us for the summit the next morning.
Kimber Cross approaches the typical base camp area along the Easton route, along the south side of the mountain.
We were blessed with a fantastic sunset! It kept getting better and better.
Max Djenohan and Kimber Cross enjoying the sunset from our base camp the night before our alpine start up the volcano.
Following our 2 AM alpine start, we quickly entered a cloud on the upper mountain. We passed by other rope teams in the dark, some from the United States and others from Canada, and eventually found ourselves to be the first to gain the Sherman Crater rim.
Starting up the Roman Wall around 9800 feet of elevation. We kept skinning until the steepest section of the Roman Wall, which we ascended on foot.
Kimber Cross and Max Djenohan on the summit! Low visibility but all smiles.
We reached the summit proper at 7:15 AM! The feeling to stand on top, and to be the first party to do so that week, was special. The sun revealed itself intermittently, but by and large, we were still very much in the “ping pong ball.”
On our 7K ski descent, Max Djenohan doing what he does best!
Kimber Cross taking turns and enjoying the views.
Next to a massive ice serac along the Easton glacier, captured on our descent.
Knowing that many of my WA100 trips will be experienced as a solo climber, this was a treat to join Kimber Cross and Max Djenohan on this volcano. Given the low visibility conditions on the summit, it may be that I return next year for more documentation, but I’m thrilled that we reached the summit and descended safely. A truly powerful mountain and volcano that holds a special place in my heart.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:
During this project, I will collaborate with local and national nonprofit groups to spread awareness, to fundraise, to highlight their mission and programs, and sometimes to join representatives of these groups in climbing. My nonprofits will include groups that serve women in the outdoors; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color climbers; LGBTQ+ adventurers, and other underserved and underrepresented group members.
Climbers of Color (CoC) is a Washington State nonprofit organization with the mission to increase access to climbing for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color by providing educational courses and supportive mentorship to leaders of color in the climbing community. To accomplish its mission, Climbers of Color provides supportive mentorship, technical training and access to key resources including gear and scholarships.
SheJumps increases the participation of women and girls in outdoor activities to foster confidence, leadership, and connection to nature and community. SheJumps believes growth is in our nature, but fear of stereotypes, failure, rejection, labels, etc—those spoken over us, spoken inside of us and what we’ve believed—limit our growth. SheJumps helps women and girls take risks in the outdoors to enable them to break through fears and internal/external barriers in life so they can grow to their full potential.
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the 2023-24 climbings seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.
Loowit (Mt. St. Helens) | WA100: Peak 1/100
Peak 1 (of 100) of the WA100 Project! Halfway up Mount Saint Helens around 3 am, I found myself entirely alone except for the company of the stars and galaxies illuminating the May night sky. Between the comfortable temperatures and firm pack of the snow, I had been climbing efficiently since my 1:45 am start, skiing on the approach trail. Within an hour of sunrise, I approached the upper mountain beneath the false summit. Although I had not intended to be, I was the first one to the upper mountain. This was a solo climb for me, but I car-camped with numerous other parties the night before at the Marble Creek trailhead, just south of Worms Flow, the standard climbing route, and I’d seen numerous parties in front of me as I approached the base of the mountain.
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Loowit (Mount Saint Helens) is located on the traditional lands of the Cowlitz, Siletz, Klickitat, Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla Peoples, past and present.
Loowit, also known as Mount Saint Helens, an active stratovolcano, as seen from the Northeast.
Halfway up Mount Saint Helens around 3 am, I found myself entirely alone except for the company of the stars and galaxies illuminating the May night sky. Between the comfortable temperatures and firm pack of the snow, I had been climbing efficiently since my 1:45 am start, skiing on the approach trail.
Within an hour of sunrise, I approached the upper mountain beneath the false summit. Although I had not intended to be, I was the first one to the upper mountain. This was a solo climb for me, but I car-camped with numerous other parties the night before at the Marble Creek trailhead, just south of Worms Flow, the standard climbing route, and I’d seen numerous parties in front of me as I approached the base of the mountain.
Rather than reaching the false summit, I did a diagonal west traverse straight to the true summit. Keenly aware of the enormous cornices hanging off the north side of the crater rim, I stepped prudently and kept plenty of distance from the edge.
Minutes before sunrise, I reached the summit proper and gazed into the volcano’s caldera center. This was my first time on this mountain, and it truly exceeded my expectations. Approaching my 10 year anniversary as a Seattleite, I made a point to visit this beautiful and unique volcano for the launch of my latest project, WA100.
Following the historic eruption in the early 1980s, Loowit, also known as Mount Saint Helens, sits prominently west of Mount Rainier and Mount Adams. Although a climb of Loowit, which is now the shortest volcano in Washington’s Cascade range, is fairly non-technical in relation to its neighboring volcanoes, it is still a strenuous climb, requiring nearly 6000 feet of elevation gain over the course of 10+ miles.
Moments after reaching the summit, the morning sun peeked above the eastern horizon and slowly lit up my surroundings. With my camera in hand, I was rapidly documenting everything I saw, with a huge smile on my face. I basked in the solitude, peace, and gratitude that comes with witnessing natural beauty in the mountains. I felt both the presence of so many others who have experienced this mountain and also those who have not had the privilege to do so. Everyone belongs in the mountains, and deserves to visit and experience a mountain and to witness a sunrise and feel the immense solitude. Standing there in the peace of the early morning, my privilege had never seemed more clear.
As I captured images of Mount Rainier to the northeast and Mount Adams to the southeast, I wondered what the world would be like if everyone was able to access and experience a similarly spectacular view, however they experience the mountains and the outdoors.
Daylight increased and I decided to work my way over to the false summit to enjoy some slightly different views. Within 10 minutes of being on the false summit, a pair of fellow climbers reached me, and they were also elated by the views. I offered to take a phone photo of them, which they accepted with big smiles. Taking a final breath from the summit rim, and drinking in one last view of the mountain’s volcanic core, I slowly made my way down. After some icy sections, I put on skis and enjoyed some fine corn skiing all the way back to the trailhead.
For able-bodied hikers, climbers, and mountaineers, both local and beyond, Loowit can be an excellent introduction to the hundred highest peaks in Washington state. While strenuous, it is a non-technical climb that requires a helmet, ice axe, and crampons, depending on snow conditions.
Though Mount St. Helens is considered a non-technical climb, the outdoor community includes a vast array of humans with all kinds of background, abilities, and levels of experience. The Venture Out Project (TVOP) is helping get us closer to a world where everyone is able to access and experience the beauty and peacefulness of nature. This nonprofit was created to “provide a safe and fun space for queer, trans, and LGBTQ+ people to experience the outdoors.” Whether you go it solo or with a group such as Venture Outdoors, please visit and experience Mount Saint Helens as you can and as you prefer. However you engage with the mountain, do so humbly, knowing we step onto these lands as visitors and, hopefully, as good stewards.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:
During this project, I will collaborate with local and national nonprofit groups to spread awareness, to fundraise, to highlight their mission and programs, and sometimes to join representatives of these groups in climbing. My nonprofits will include groups that serve women in the outdoors; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color climbers; LGBTQ+ adventurers, and other underserved and underrepresented group members.
Venture Out Project (TVOP) helps the LGBTQ+ community develop confidence, skills, and a sense of belonging through outdoor adventure. TVOP is committed to facilitating backpacking and wilderness trips for the queer and trans community in a safe and inclusive environment. They also provide comprehensive (trans)gender inclusion workshops for organizations, educators, adventure professionals, summer camps and more.
Check out Venture Out’s summit trip and experience on this special mountain:
THE WA100 PROJECT
Over the 2023-24 climbings seasons, Scott Kranz is embarking on a personal journey to climb and document Washington state's 100 highest peaks. These summits are all in the Cascades, the mountain range that transformed his life. His aim behind this project is to celebrate the ways in which we connect with our local landscapes while also giving back by uplifting and supporting the outdoor community and organizations that strive for inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Scott Kranz is a full-time outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Seattle. Born and raised in Minnesota, Scott moved to Washington State in 2013 and first explored the Cascade Range, which sparked a lifelong love of outdoor adventure and photography. Since, he’s come to partner with some of the world’s leading brands and shot on all seven continents.