The name is intriguing enough. Then you see it. Amongst peaks with scary names in the North Cascades like Torment, Fury, and Formiddable; Forbidden Peak stands out as a mountain with several climbs of classic status and no easy way to the top. The west ridge, which I climbed in July with hardman Chris, is a knife-edge that drops abruptly a couple thousand feet on either side. And that is just part of it, approaching the base is a non-stop hike of near epic proportions.
But the views in good weather, rival any in the Cascades. Upon finally starting up the ridge proper, you are met with a scene of Alaskan scale. A mile below, and beneath the only ice-cap left in the lower 48, Moraine Lake, beckons you as the emerald jewel that it is. Though we were plagued with clouds, a few breaks allowed me to shoot some pics.
Looking North
Looking South
The term 'breath-taking' isn’t truly understood until you've discovered for yourself, a view that captivates your mind and body so completely that you forget the reality from where you came. I am thankful I was allowed the "Forbidden!"
Rappelling Down
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