Mount Shasta Summit Pass
Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Required above 10,000 feet. California's most prominent volcano with challenging conditions despite non-technical terrain.
“A bucket-list destination in Mt. Shasta.”
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Be notified instantly when Shasta permits become available due to cancellations.
Get Availability Alerts
Be notified instantly when Shasta permits become available.
Shasta Quick Facts
Key Information
Permit Details
Pro Tips
- •High camp at Helen Lake for acclimatization
- •Start summit bid by 2-3am to avoid rockfall
- •Bring a helmet for Avalanche Gulch
- •Check avalanche conditions in spring
What to Expect
Highlights
- •7,000+ feet of elevation gain
- •Steep snow climbing
- •High altitude challenges
- •Variable weather year-round
Hazards & Considerations
- !Rockfall (especially afternoon)
- !Avalanche risk in spring
- !Altitude sickness
- !Severe weather
Summit Information
Shasta
Climbing RoutesClick for details
Base Camp
Technical Gear Required
How to Get This Permit
Check availability requirements
Walk-up permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends.
Visit the ranger station
Go to the designated permit office or ranger station. Bring ID and know your planned itinerary.
Have backup plans
Popular trailheads may be full. Know alternative routes or dates in case your first choice is unavailable.
When to Go
Conditions
Early season climbing. Snow routes may be in prime condition. 1+ days recommended for acclimatization.
Crowd Level
ModerateAdvantages
- +Technical routes in condition
- +Fewer crowds
- +Cooler approach temps
Challenges
- !Avalanche hazard
- !Variable conditions
- !Winter skills required
Difficulty Assessment
Fitness and endurance required
Climbing, scrambling, or specialized skills
Steep dropoffs and fall potential
Route finding and trail clarity
Difficulty of bailing out mid-route
Best For
Experienced mountaineers comfortable with Class 3-4 terrain and altitude.
Recommended Experience
Glacier travel training required. Must be competent with crampons, ice axe, and rope work.
Not Recommended For
Those without high-altitude experience. Altitude sickness is a serious risk above 10,000 ft.
About This Permit
Shasta is known for challenging conditions including altitude (nearly 14,200 ft), unpredictable weather, and objective hazards. Many climbers underestimate the mountain and suffer altitude sickness or get caught by afternoon storms.
The Experience
Why It Matters
Shasta draws visitors from around the world to Mt. Shasta. The permit system balances access with preservation, ensuring the experience remains worthwhile for those who make the journey.
Rules & Regulations
- •Free wilderness permit required (self-issue)
- •Summit pass required above 10,000 feet
- •Human waste pack-out required
- •Campfire permit required for stoves
Key Landmarks
Safety & Planning
Emergency Info
Download the PermitSnag app for offline access to emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Shasta.
Food Storage
Check bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations in the PermitSnag app.
🏔️Mountaineering Resources
Guide Services
Find authorized guide services and mountaineering schools for this peak.
Authorized guide services:
- • Check with ranger station for current list
- • Verify NPS/USFS authorization
Gear Rentals
Don't own technical gear? Find rental shops near the trailhead.
Required gear you can rent:
Route Conditions
Real-time route status, snow levels, and climbing conditions.
Current conditions include:
- • Route status (open/closed/caution)
- • Snow level elevation
- • Crevasse and glacier conditions
- • Recent trip reports
Avalanche Forecast
Check avalanche conditions before winter and spring climbs.
Avalanche info includes:
- • Current danger level
- • Avalanche problems (wind slab, persistent slab)
- • Travel advice
- • Links to regional avalanche centers
Shasta FAQ
How do I get a Mt. Shasta climbing permit?
Self-issue a free wilderness permit at any trailhead or ranger station, then purchase a Summit Pass online, at the ranger station, or trailhead kiosk. You need both permits.
When is the best time to climb Mt. Shasta?
April through June offers the best conditions with consolidated snow. Summer brings more rockfall hazard in Avalanche Gulch.
Photography Guide
Golden Hour
Golden hour at Shasta offers the best photography conditions with warm, directional light.
Best Light
Early morning typically provides the clearest conditions and best light quality.
Beat the Crowds
Weekdays and early mornings see fewer visitors for cleaner compositions.
Classic Shots
- 📍Classic view of Shasta
- 📍Mt. Shasta scenery
- 📍Trail or route documentation