Located in the spectacular Boston Basin in the North Cascades National Park, Sharkfin Tower (8,120') isn't the biggest, baddest peak in the neighborhood, but it is a fun mountain to climb with plenty of challenges, great positions and awesome views. Here are some photos from a recent ascent of this North Cascades gem with Jim D. and Jack M.
Sharkfin as seen from the lower camp:
Shot on the descent, this photo shows Jim and Jack at the start of the second pitch which offers some superb alpine climbing with sweeping views:
From the top of the second pitch, the Southeast Ridge route is a mellow scramble to the summit with the impressive Boston Glacier looming below:
The descent follows the ascent route combining some down climbing and rappels including navigating the approach gully from the Quien Sabe Glacier. Often times, especially later in the season, the moat guarding the entrance to the approach gully can be tricky to cross.
One final rappel, in order to avoid some of the loose rock in the approach gully, brings one back to the glacier. Sharkfin Tower is a classic outing and can be combined with other objectives in the area such as Sahale, Forbidden or Torment.
