Cathedral Rock, Summit in Kittitas County, Washington.
Cathedral Rock is a summit in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness reaching 2049 meters with steep cliffs and deep valleys carved by glacial activity. The mountain offers multiple climbing routes ranging from moderate scrambles to technical rock climbs.
James Grieve achieved the first recorded ascent between 1882 and 1896, establishing its place in mountaineering history. This early climb marked the beginning of its recognition as a climbing destination in the region.
The mountain serves as a focal point for mountaineers and hikers venturing into the Alpine Lakes backcountry through its multiple established routes. Many climbers view the peaks in this region as symbols of the outdoor recreation culture in Washington.
Access is via Forest Road 4330 from Interstate 90, and a Northwest Forest Pass is required for entry. The hike begins at the Cathedral Pass trailhead, where parking and trail information are available.
Multiple climbing pathways exist here with varying difficulty levels, including the technical Northeast Buttress rated at class 5.7. These diverse routes attract climbers of different skill levels seeking different types of challenges.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
