Mount Shasta Summit Pass wilderness permit area in Mount Shasta Wilderness - backcountry hiking destination

Walk-UpClimbingModerate Demand

Mount Shasta Summit Pass Permit

Required for climbing above 10,000 ft on Mt. Shasta.

“Summit Summit Pass in Mt. Shasta.”

How to get Summit Pass

There is no quota on the Mount Shasta Summit Pass, so there is nothing to get alerted about. Buy it at a trailhead self-issue kiosk, at the Mt. Shasta or McCloud Ranger Station, at The Fifth Season, or by phone — $25 for three days, any day you want to climb.

Official permit page

Planning another trip? See the permits we watch.

How to get Summit Pass

Official permit page

Planning another trip? See the permits we watch.

Plan the full trip, not just the permit

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Add your dates and get a day-by-day plan: what needs a permit, what gear to bring, and one link to share with your whole group to coordinate every step.

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Summit Pass Quick Facts

Permit RequiredYes

Booking MethodWalk-Up

Demand LevelModerate6/10

Live availability activity →

This permit is not bookable online

Official permit page →

Key Information

Permit Details

TypeClimbing

Booking MethodWalk-Up

Demand Level6/10

LocationCA

Weather Forecast

Trailhead (5,000 ft)

Today

☀️

79°

56°

Mon

☀️

87°

61°

Tue

☁️

90°

56°

Wed

☀️

84°

56°

Thu

☁️

82°

53°

Fri

☀️

93°

56°

Sat

☁️

91°

60°

View full NWS forecast →Mountain weather changes rapidly. This forecast is a guide—always be prepared for worse conditions.

How to Get This Permit

How this permit is issued

Check the agency page before you go

Fees, hours and closures change. Confirm the current process at U.S. Forest Service before your trip.

Have backup plans

Office hours move, ground closes, and popular trailheads get busy. Know an alternative route or date before you drive out.

Official permit page at U.S. Forest Service

Learn More

Difficulty Assessment

Physical Demand3/5

Fitness and endurance required

Technical Skill3/5

Climbing, scrambling, or specialized skills

Navigation3/5

Route finding and trail clarity

Commitment3/5

Difficulty of bailing out mid-route

Best For

Fit hikers with mountain experience ready to step into mountaineering.

Recommended Experience

Several strenuous hikes with 4,000+ ft elevation gain. Comfortable with exposed terrain.

Plan Your Trip

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Gear Checklist

Required and recommended gear for Summit Pass

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Shuttle Services

Trailhead transportation options

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Guide Services

Experienced wilderness guides

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Safety & Planning

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Emergency Info

Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Summit Pass.

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Food Storage

Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.

Summit Pass FAQ

How do I get a Summit Pass permit?

Summit Pass is not sold online. There is no quota on the Mount Shasta Summit Pass, so there is nothing to get alerted about. Buy it at a trailhead self-issue kiosk, at the Mt. Shasta or McCloud Ranger Station, at The Fifth Season, or by phone — $25 for three days, any day you want to climb. PermitSnag does not send alerts for it — check the official permit page for the current process.

When is the best time to visit Summit Pass?

Check with the managing agency for current season dates. Weekdays generally have better availability than weekends.

How competitive is the Summit Pass permit?

This permit has a demand score of 6/10, making it moderately competitive.

What if I can't get a Summit Pass permit?

On this permit there is no cancellation queue and no alert to set, because nothing is re-released onto a calendar we could watch. Bring backup dates, and check the official permit page for the current process and any closures.