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South Ridge

4th Mod. Snow, Trad, Snow, Alpine, 4500 ft (1364 m), Grade III,  Avg: 2.8 from 12 votes
FA: Ray Farmer and E.C. Cross 8/12/1988
Oregon > Oregon Volcanoes > (B) Mt Jefferson

Description

A long moderate route better done with snow.
The crux is climbing the summit pinnacle from the Red Saddle.
Can be done in a long day but most people will want to take two.

Location

South Ridge is approached from Pamelia Lake and the PCT.

Route 126 through Detroit, turn left onto Pamelia Lake road. Entry permit required for Pamelia Lake.

From the Pamelia Lake th., follow the good signed trail to the PCT. Turn right on the PCT and hike another
2.5+/- miles to Mud Lake. Several small lakes here. Leave the PCT and hike cross-country in a northerly direction to the saddle, between Goat Peak and Mount Jefferson. Goat Peak is on your right.

Protection

Helmet, crampons, axe, and rope for the summit pinnacle traverse. In late season this can be soloed with no snow.

Photos [Hide ALL Photos]

Weasel on Mt. Jefferson.
[Hide Photo] Weasel on Mt. Jefferson.
Traversing back across the face
[Hide Photo] Traversing back across the face
July 1st 2023 conditions
[Hide Photo] July 1st 2023 conditions
Curling around towards the summit
[Hide Photo] Curling around towards the summit
Bear grass on approach.
[Hide Photo] Bear grass on approach.
Goat Peak. Photo from South Ridge.
[Hide Photo] Goat Peak. Photo from South Ridge.
Start here.
[Hide Photo] Start here.
The South Ridge. Photo taken from Goat Peak.
[Hide Photo] The South Ridge. Photo taken from Goat Peak.

Comments [Hide ALL Comments]

Ryan Bottesini
From the Northeast
 
[Hide Comment] July 2023 - Lots of loose volcanic sand and loose boulders on the way up. This one makes you earn that elevation.

Quality rock moves on the summit. The direct route up the arete has some great 5.8 pulls on it. Depending on the conditions some mixed ice/rock moves may be necessary. See the rap beta on the Jefferson main page. Bring some extra cord to replace the tats. Jul 3, 2023