Mount Adams South Climb (Lunch Counter Approach)

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Mt. Adams, with its summit of 12,276 feet elevation, is the second-highest peak in Washington State and the third-highest peak in the Cascade Range. Summiting this majestic peak is no small feat. However, with the right gear, training, and route, it is possible to do without tackling serious technical challenges. The South Climb is the least technical ascent of the mountain, but what it lacks in technicality, it makes up for in gorgeous views of the entire chain of Cascade Volcanoes.

You'll want to download the Hiking Project mobile app before you go, as there's no cell coverage in the area and a proper GPS track to guide your way will be helpful.

A high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended to access the South Climb Trailhead near the old Cold Springs Campground. Be sure to take the road nice and slow, as it is incredibly narrow and rutted—A car coming the other way will prove a challenge.

All climbers need to be prepared to deal with a wide variety of weather, snow, and rock conditions. The route can deviate drastically depending on the weather conditions.

The trail follows switchbacks in the woods for about a mile. After 1.5 miles, the route splits in one straight and steep trail or another a little bit less steep. Both trails join again at the Lunch Counter (base camp for people spending the night on the mountain). After that, there are no trail or trail markers, so just follow the bootpack (if it's available) to Pikers Peak.

Pikers Peak is a false summit that can take a few hours to reach from the Lunch Counter. Before Pikers Peak, you might find a rock formation on the right where you would like to stop to get some snacks and be out of the wind. After reaching Pikers Peak, you'll see the summit less than two miles away. Continue following the bootpack to the summit and your reward!