The Isolation Traverse takes you through the mountain wilderness north of Eldorado. From the high peaks of the Colonial-Snowfield group to the glacial expanses of the McAllister and Inspiration glaciers, this trip is a true North Cascades adventure. We will cross high cols, summit lonely peaks, and cross big glaciers. It's a natural and compelling route that offers some great skiing and an unforgettable adventure.
The Isolation Traverse takes you through the mountain wilderness north of Eldorado. From the high peaks of the Colonial-Snowfield group to the glacial expanses of the McAllister and Inspiration glaciers, this trip is a true North Cascades adventure. We will cross high cols, summit lonely peaks, and cross big glaciers. It's a natural and compelling route that offers some great skiing and an unforgettable adventure.
Overall Difficulty Level: Very difficult
Skills Required: Advanced skiing ability and prior ski touring experience
Fitness Level: Very strenuous due to ski touring with an overnight pack
Day One: We meet early at the Marblemount ranger station for a gear check and a car shuttle. Then it's off to Eldorado Creek, where we begin our climb into the high country. We ski north, crossing the Roush Creek drainage on our way to a camp on the East Ridge of Eldorado.
Day Two: This day brings us into country rarely visited by skiers. We cross the Inspiration and MCAllister glaciers and ski a third, nameless glacier to a camp near the enigmatic Backbone Ridge; A truly wild setting in the heart of the North Cascades.
Day Three: An intricate route takes us north, down the elusive "Ice-Elation" couloir, and over the top of Isolation Peak. This is a big day, so eat your Wheaties! We aim to make camp at the top of the truly unique Neve Glacier.
Day Four: If you've ever driven the North Cascades highway, then you may have gazed up at Colonial and Pyramid peaks from near Diablo Lake or Thunder Arm. On our final day, we ski down between these grand peaks in what is truly a grand exit. A classic Cascadian climber's trail leads down from tree line to Pyramid Lake and the highway shortly beyond.
Snow Travel Equipment
Safety Gear
Technical Gear
Although tipping is not a requirement, it is considered standard practice in the guiding industry and is appreciated by our guides. We generally recommend roughly 10%-15% of your course or trip cost or a flat amount that you are comfortable with.
