Mt. Shuksan Price Glacier
Mt. Baker AreaBest Mar–May
A north-side ski descent of Mt. Shuksan from the North Summit down the Price Headwall and Price Glacier to White Salmon.
About This Trail
The Price Glacier descent of Mt. Shuksan is one of the wildest ski mountaineering objectives in the Mt. Baker area — a north-aspect line that drops from the North Summit down the Price Headwall, threads the Price Glacier's serac and crevasse maze, and exits via a SW-facing couloir before bushwhacking through White Salmon drainage back to Highway 542. Standard execution starts at the White Salmon parking area, climbs the North Shoulder, and tops out near nine thousand one hundred thirty-one feet.
The skiing is sustained and exposed. The Price Headwall runs eight hundred feet of forty-five-degree snow before opening into the glacier complex below. Glacial recession has been dramatic over recent decades — established lines change year to year, and current beta is essential. Icefalls, seracs, and crevasse fields demand careful scouting and route-finding throughout.
This is among the most committing ski lines on Shuksan. Stable spring weather is mandatory. Crevasse rescue gear, rope team work, and current avalanche advisory readings are baseline requirements. April delivers the standard window. Northwest Forest Pass at the trailhead.
Sustained 45-degree Price Headwall (~800 ft), opening into complex glacier terrain with serac and crevasse navigation. SW couloir exit at ~5,000 ft.
Approach via White Salmon and North Shoulder skin track. Bootpack on the North Summit ridge and Price Headwall entrance.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Few parties attempt the Price in any season.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Sustained 45-degree Price Headwall — no-fall consequence
- Severe icefall and serac hazard in upper Price Glacier
- Crevasse fields throughout — rope team and rescue gear mandatory
- Glacier recession changes established lines year to year — current beta essential
- Bushwhack exit through White Salmon drainage
- NWAC West Slopes North forecast mandatory
Getting There
White Salmon parking area off Highway 542 / Heather Meadows region. Northwest Forest Pass required.