Header Ads Widget

Ticker

6/recent/ticker-posts

Climb Mount Logan Canada (Things To Know)

Climbing the highest mountain in Canada is no small feat. At 5250 m (17220 ft), Mount Logan in the Yukon Territory continues to enthrall climbers from all over the globe. Every year, a handful of climbers attempt the climb, and even fewer complete the expedition successfully.


For most mountaineers, climbing to the top of this Canadian peak is a significant achievement. Within seconds, the weather can deteriorate and make the climatic conditions terrible for the climbers. Aside from the weather, many other factors also climb to the top, an extremely difficult one.


Climb Mount Logan
Image Source: Pixabay

It is located in the southwestern part of Yukon and gets its name after Sir. William Edmond Logan, a famed Canadian geologist. Furthermore, this is one of the most prominent peaks. When compared to other non-volcanic mountains, this North American mountain has the largest base circumference.

Any individual planning an expedition to Mount Logan needs to have a considerable glacier experience as one can expect. They must be in great shape physically and be well versed with the local rules.

As per the latest government rules, solo climbing requires a moratorium and insurance. Due to the high number of rescue attempts made in the past, the government has laid out a list of new rules to reduce taxpayers’ burden while ensuring a safe climb for everyone.

Given the mountain’s hugeness and various other factors, it is incredibly important to be well-versed with the region before attempting to scale the mountain. Here is a list of five must-know things you should know before attempting this climb for a safe journey.


Primary Climbing Routes

Deciding which route to take for the journey is integral to perform the climb. Primarily, there are two routes for reaching the summit of this spectacular mountain. Climbers can either take The East Ridge or attempt the climb through The King’s Trench. In addition to these two passages, climbers can take the Hummingbird Ridge to reach the top.

Back in the day, the first climbers took The King’s Trench to climb the summit. Climbers who possess skiing expertise can opt for the King’s Trench route, which is most suitable for advanced ski-mountaineers. The trail connects climbers to the summit through the western side, and most of the climbers prefer taking this course for the ascent of Mount Logan.

On the other hand, the East Ridge pathway is packed with knife-edge ridges and steep slopes, making the ascent to the top more challenging. This passage is known to have a comparatively low success rate than The King’s Trench.

Difficulty Level

People planning to climb this gigantic peak need to possess an advanced level of mountaineering training. At 17220ft, this huge barrier offers quite a challenge to even the best mountaineers.


mount logan difficulty
Image Source: Pixabay 

From the base camp, which lies at 9000 feet, climbers need to complete 16 miles to reach the summit. The journey involves crossing glacial landscapes while facing harsh climatic conditions. For covering 16 miles of journey from the base to the top, an individual should be physically fit, well acclimatized, and equipped with the correct equipment.

The sheer size of this North American mountain, coupled with various other environmental challenges, makes it essential for a physically fit climber. People with previous glacier experience would have an added advantage. Mount Logan is often referred to as the ski mountaineer’s mountain, and thus, a certain level of expertise in skiing will come in handy.


The Duration of the Journey

In general, the journey to the top may take around three weeks or more. A majority of the time will be spent in the acclimatization process. From the base to the top, it is roughly 16 miles. Whether you’re hiring a guide or attempting to climb on your own, the number of days you give to the expedition is significant.

Due to the complicated weather conditions, it is wise to take an ample amount of time instead of rushing to reach the top. Though there is no rock climbing or other activities involved, the peak’s massiveness and the weather’s unpredictability makes it challenging for climbers to acclimatize first.

Equipment Required for the Climb


Reaching the top of this Canadian mountain requires a specific level of expertise in climbing, skiing, hiking, split boarding, etc. The climb’s complexity makes it critical for climbers to carry the right equipment to create a world of difference to a successful expedition’s chances.


Mount Logan Climb Gear List
Image Source: Pixabay

The list of equipment may vary, depending on the climbing route one plans to take. Here are some of the equipment that every climber must have in their pack for a safe trip to the summit:


  • Ski gear - ski poles, ski crampons
  • Boots
  • Tents
  • Glacier ice ax
  • Alpine climbing harness
  • Avalanche beacon
  • Ropes
  • Down parka
  • Sleeping bags
  • Glacier glasses
  • Insulating pad
  • Climbing gloves
  • Balaclava face mask
  • Personal first aid


While picking out equipment for the expedition, it is essential to go with lightweight and functional products. Do proper research to handpick the products from brands that have received rave ratings from fellow mountain climbers.

Best Time to climb Mount Logan

Picking the right months for the expedition can have a massive role in the trip’s overall success. The region is famous for having unstable weather that changes drastically in a blink of an eye. Moreover, the uncertainty involved with the sub-arctic weather makes it more difficult to climb this huge mountain.

If you’re planning an expedition to this enormous peak, it is best time to go between May to August, as during these months, the area experiences a wet season.

The extremely rigorous weather of this Canadian mountain makes it all the more challenging. High winds and storms from the ocean are some of the climatic conditions that may occur unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

Being aware of such factors involved can prove to be advantageous for the climbers. From selecting the right equipment to planning the expedition during the favorable months, there are plenty of ways to ensure that the ascent to the top is safe. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or an amateur, possessing an in-depth knowledge about the mountain and the climb will help boost your confidence.

Post a Comment

0 Comments