Mount Shasta Climbing Expedition

We invite all adult survivors 18 and older to join us on the Mount Shasta Climbing Expedition as we experience a truly rewarding personal challenge.

TAPS Expeditions are outdoor skills-based events that require dedication, preparation and a real sense of adventure. With the support of fellow survivors, we'll climb to the peak of Mount Shasta. 

This trip will be a technical pursuit and physical challenge combined. Professional guides will provide instruction on basic climbing skills and the use of technical equipment such as crampons and ice axes. The ascent will allow time for continued instruction and learning as we make our climb. This trip is the perfect way to train for a TAPS international climbing expedition or to conquer a peak closer to home.

Leading up to the trip, we'll form a team bond and gain familiarity with each other through team meetings to discuss training regimens, gear lists and more. Your team will be a source of encouragement as you train for this adventure and an ongoing support network after the expedition is complete.

To join the Mount Shasta Climbing Expedition, fill out an application. TAPS Expeditions staff will contact you shortly after your application is submitted to discuss the next steps. If you're unsure if this event is for you, complete an application and TAPS Expeditions staff will connect with you to share more about our program and this event.

This trip is being put together through a partnership with REI. For more information, visit www.rei.com/adventures.

SCHEDULE

Day 1: Our trip will begin in Mount Shasta City for a brief orientation and gear check. Then, we'll make our way to the trailhead. We'll start our ascent at about 7,000 feet and climb for four to five hours. Once we arrive at our camp, our guides will cover the basics of ice axe and crampon use, specific climbing techniques and an introduction to roped travel in preparation for our summit attempt. Climbing: 3-4 miles

Day 2: The summit of Mount Shasta is our goal today! Our summit attempt will begin early in the morning. If possible, we'll utilize the impressive Hotlum-Bolam Ridge route, depending on current conditions. The descent back to camp may take three to five hours. Climbing: 3-4 miles

Day 3: On our final day, we'll descend from camp back to the trailhead. The descent usually takes three to four hours. Although we'll return in the afternoon, you may want to stay the night in a hotel as you will likely be tired. If you choose to travel home on this day, we suggest you book late flights. Climbing: 3.5 miles

Note: Please be aware that this itinerary is subject to change due to a number of reasons, including weather and participant skill level. If weather prevents us from making a summit attempt on day two, we may opt to change the summit climb to day three. If this occurs, we will be back to town very late on day three.

This schedule is provided by REI. For a more detailed itinerary, visit www.rei.com/adventures.  

TRIP FEES

A $50 deposit will be collected at the time of registration. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and sponsors, TAPS will cover the rest of the trip costs, with the exception of your transportation to and from Mount Shasta City, California, your first night's lodging and some meals.

LODGING AND TRANSPORTATION

You will need to cover the cost of your transportation to and from Mount Shasta City. The closest airport is the Sacramento International Airport (SMF). Your first night's lodging will be on your own, but we can assist in recommending lodging options that fit within your budget. Plan to arrive in Mount Shasta City by 8 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 7. Our expedition will conclude late afternoon on Sunday, Sept. 10. You may want to stay in a hotel that night as you will likely be tired. You will need to cover the cost of your hotel stay. If you choose to travel home that day, we suggest you book late flights.

TAPS will cover the costs for all subsequent lodging and meals. During this expedition, we will be camping on the mountain at a basecamp.

SKILL LEVEL

This is a physically demanding expedition and will require some preparation. To maximize your enjoyment of the expedition and the likelihood that you will reach the summit, we suggest you engage in a regular exercise regimen prior to the trip. Previous experience is highly recommended and a physician's release is required to participate in this course.

If you have any questions, please email expeditions@taps.org or call 800-959-TAPS (8277).