Granite Peak Expedition

Overview

First summited in 1923, Granite Peak is considered the most technically challenging of the highest summits in the Lower 48. Beartooth Mountain Guides leads ascents of Granite Peak via the Froze-to-Death Plateau and the devious East Ridge, a low 5th class technical rock climb. Conditions may vary, but technical climbing is always required to reach the summit.  

Ratio and Time

Client/Guide ratio: maximum 2:1 (groups larger than 2 will have multiple guides)
Prerequisites: Rock Skills Course or equivalent 
Length: 4-5 days
Season: July through September (weather dependent)

Gear

We will provide:
Professional mountain guides, tents, meals, stove and fuel, cookware, water purification, helmets, harnesses, ropes/hardware, crampons and ice axes.
*You can bring your equipment and/or food.
*Gear lists will be provided at booking.

Prices

4-day trips:

Private - $2500/person

Group of 2+ - $2100/person

5-day trips:

Private - $3100/person

Group of 2+ - $2500/person

Route

Beartooth Mountain Guides' standard 5 day trip ascends Granite Peak via Mystic Lake to the Froze-to-Death Plateau, where we spend the first night after 7 miles of steep hiking covering over 4000' of elevation gain. From there, we travel across the high plateau for another 4 miles to our high camp at 11,800' with a stunning view of Granite's North face. On summit morning, we wake up early and ascend the classic East Ridge. On this trip, we have the chance to wait out weather on day 3 for increased summit chances or spend two days reversing our ascent across the plateau and down to Mystic Lake and eventually to the trailhead.

Prequisites and Recommendations

Rock Skills Course - $200/climber  (2-3 hours outside of Red Lodge, MT)
This course covers basic rock systems to prepare for the East Ridge.

Fitness & familiarity with altitude (over 10,000') recommended.

Porters

Porters are highly recommended. 
1 porter carries up to 20 pounds of your gear, allowing for greater fitness on summit day.

Costs: $ 275/day