The Ptarmigan Traverse is a popular high-level alpine trek through some of the most beautiful glaciated mountains of the North Cascades. It takes its name from the Ptarmigan Alpine Club because four of its members were part of the original traverse. The Ptarmigan Traverse requires experience at off-trail wilderness navigation and glacier travel. Although the traverse was originally done south to north, most people choose to do the traverse from the north to south (perhaps because there is less elevation gain at the beginning this way). The typical north end access is Cascade Pass and the typical south end access is Downey Creek (although road washouts on the south end might encourage different southern access routes). Most parties take 5-7 days to complete the traverse. There are several peaks that can be climbed along the way.

I had done the Ptarmigan Traverse with my parents in 2003. Since then, as I have developed my photography and climbing skills, I have wanted to revisit this beautiful terrain with a better camera and a climbing rack. My friend Josh was interested in joining me. So, in July 2009, we set out on a 6-day trek on the Ptarmigan Traverse, planning to hike from south to north (as the original party had done). The 9 miles of extra road on the approach due to a washout was an annoyance, but not enough to stop us!

The following trip report gives photos and details of our wonderful 6-day traverse. We had nearly perfect weather and perfect snow conditions with the early-season snowcover. We enjoyed each other's company and we climbed 3 fun summits along the way: Dome Peak, German Helmet, and Mixup Peak. Also, I went prepared with plenty of batteries for some night photography!