REQUIRED TO CLIMB MT SHASTA: Summit pass ($25 and required above 10,000 feet, even if you don't plan on going to the summit), wilderness permit (free) and human waste pack-out bag. All of these items are available for self-issue at all open trailheads or the Mt Shasta/McCloud Ranger Stations and The Fifth Season store in downtown Mt Shasta. Have your pass handy as rangers will check. Packout your human waste. It is required. Waste receptacles are provided at all trailheads. All trailheads are open with full access. Expect rough roads. Four wheel drive is not necessary, but medium to high clearance recommended.

We feel it's safe to say that Mount Shasta has entered into late season climbing conditions. Observations and updates of this advisory will be less frequent as we enter into the Fall season. Late season conditions means that rock fall is noticeably increasing, sun cups are large and in charge, and loose, rocky slopes are gaining size. Slips and falls on snow can often lead into rocks. This greatly exacerbates a slip/fall consequence. Outfitter guides have ceased trips on the south and west side routes. The Clear Creek route is the best option for late season climbs, but don't take it lightly. Numerous lost climbers, slip and fall accidents and fatalities have occurred on this route in the past. The routes from the Brewer Creek trailhead and Northgate trailhead are still in decent shape. All ridge routes are mostly melted out and involve loose rock scrambling, potentially knocking rocks onto climbers below. Skiing on the mountain is possible, but expect to hike to +/- 10,000 feet as well as navigate (wo)man-eating sun cups. The only reason to ski, in our sometimes jaded opinion, is if you have a personal quest to ski every month of the year. Best to wait 'till winter, but if you've got the STOKE, ride it - don't fight it!

Climbing Mount Shasta does not get easier or safer this time of year. Plan accordingly and carry the proper equipment, like an ice axe, crampons and helmet, proper footwear, navigation tools, etc.  Several of these items are part of the 10 ESSENTIALS!! Google it. Often climbers listen to our safety messages and in response we get, "Yeah, yeah, yeah...".  Please, let us tell you -- it's the same common denominators that lead to accidents, fatalities, searches, rescues. Pay attention up there folks, plan and prepare properly, have the courage to turn around.

Camp cleanliness and overall mountain sanitation is very important to us and other climbers. When traveling in the wilderness, always follow leave no trace principles.  Minimize your impact. Plan ahead and prepare. Travel and camp on durable surfaces. Depose of waste properly (it's required). Leave what you find. Always respect wildlife. Many day hikers have been exploring lower elevation trails on the mountain. As summer trails continue to melt out, please stay on path to limit resource degradation. Camp at least 100 feet away from water sources. Stay off fragile vegetation as best you can. The growing season for this delicate ecosystem is very short, especially this year!

Check the weather and monitor as you climb. The NWS Rec Forecast is a good place to start as well as the NWS Discussion. 

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