Luna Peak, Mountain summit in North Cascades, Washington, US.
Luna Peak is the highest mountain in the Picket Range, a rugged subrange of the North Cascades in Washington, within North Cascades National Park. It rises over 6,560 ft (2,000 m) in 1.8 mi (2.9 km) above McMillan Creek to the south. Its north and east faces are steep, and the standard Southwest Ridge route involves off-trail hiking, bushwhacking, and exposed scrambling on loose rock (Class 3/4).
Luna Peak was first climbed in early September 1938 by Bill Cox and Will F. Thompson. The peak later became part of North Cascades National Park, established in 1968, which brought the Picket Range under federal protection.
The peak's name comes from the Picket Range's naming theme, where many summits carry names of lunar and celestial figures. Its remote position on an eastern ridge means few climbers attempt it, and Fred Beckey noted the peak lacks the appeal of attractive alpine climbing problems. The standard Southwest Ridge route is rarely climbed, so parties often find solitude.
Access requires taking a ferry across Ross Lake followed by a hike through old-growth forest to reach the base camp. Weather conditions change rapidly at high elevation, so proper gear and preparation are essential for safety.
Luna Peak rises over 6,560 ft (2,000 m) in just 1.8 mi (2.9 km) above McMillan Creek to the south, one of the largest local reliefs in the Picket Range. Its isolated position on a far-flung eastern ridge means it is rarely climbed.
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