Overview
The dominating North face of Mount Baring is the most dramatic sight in this sector of the cascades and maybe one of the most powerful in the cascades. It`s vertical and overhanging face is readily noticable as one drives up US Hwy 2 towards Stevens Pass. Even though it is not high by Cascade standards, it`s relief of over 5,000 ft above the Skykomish river gives it a commanding presense. The peak has tecnical routes to offer as well as a class 2 scramble. The imposing north face was a climb that took much effort from several different parties, and even one fatality, over a span of ten years before the first ascent was finally completed.
Getting There
Drive US Hwy 2 East of Index to the small town of Baring and turn North on road 6024. Cross the railroad tracks and follow the gravel road 4 1/2 miles to the trailhead for Barkley lake. Do not take the trail to the lake but instead continue up the abandoned road until a creek crossing and a cairn and find the climbers path heading up next to the creek.
Red Tape
The only thing required for this climb, like most other trailheads in the state, is a NW Forest Pass.
When To Climb
Summer is the season of choice although Spring has the advantage of snow covered brush. Also, due to the fact that the TH is at a low elevation it can be reachable when others are still snowed in.
Camping
Camping is allowed although the only place I could think where one would be able to find flat ground would be the basin at around 4,900 ft where there might also be water.
lat/long
47.779,-121.434topozone.com
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Wild Sky Wilderness
