OverviewThe first ascentionist of Boston Peak stated that it was nothing but “a heap of low-grade ore.” At 8,894 feet it commands a regal location above Boston Basin with excellent views of Mount Logan, Mount Buckner, the Boston Glacier, Mount Goode, Sahale Peak , Glacier Peak, Sharkfin Tower, Forbidden Peak and Eldorado. The views are the only inviting aspect of this peak. It is essentially a ‘choss-pile’ of nightmarishly loose rock.
Getting ThereFrom Interstate 5 in Burlington take WA 20 (North Cascades Highway) towards Sedro Woolley. Drive 47 miles to Marblemount and then get off on the Cascade River Road. Take this for 22 miles to a turnout (elevation 3,200 feet) beneath the impressive Northeast Face of Johannesburg Mountain.
Follow the climbers trail (originally a road to the Diamond Mine .75 miles above) to the vicinity of the mine site and then traverse open slopes. The climber’s trail is wiped out due to a large avalanche slide from Spring 2002. Continue North for approximately a half mile and cross four streams. A switchback trail leads to a moraine at 5,300 feet where multiple campsites and a compost toilet are located. a second camping area is located at 6,400 feet but remains snow covered until later in season.
Red TapePermits are required for overnight trips in the North Cascades National Park. For information call the National Park Service Ranger Station for the North Cascades National Park in Marblemount (360)873-4500.
When To ClimbJune-October
CampingCamping sites are located in Boston Basin at a little over 5000 feet and 6000 feet with composting toilets at both locations. The Sahale - Boston col makes a good bivy site for climbs of Boston Peak and the more remote Mount Buckner, located to the East of Boston Peak.
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North Cascades
