Bonanza Peak (Washington)
Mountain Washington's highest non-volcanic Cascade peak
A glaciated peak in Washington State’s North Cascades, Bonanza Peak challenges mountaineers with steep ice and rock routes; climbers come for technical ascents and remote alpine terrain.
How to Get to Bonanza Peak (Washington) #
Access is typically via backcountry routes in the North Cascades. The approach depends on the chosen route; many parties start from trailheads in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest or through glacier-access roads. Nearest towns with services include Winthrop and Twisp; detailed route planning and permits for overnight stays may be required.
Tips for Visiting Bonanza Peak (Washington) #
- This is a remote, technical peak - hire a local guide with glacier experience if planning a climb.
- Approach routes cross glaciers and steep terrain; check current avalanche and glacier conditions with local ranger stations.
- Plan for a multi-day expedition with established basecamp and carry emergency communications (satellite or PLB).
Best Time to Visit Bonanza Peak (Washington) #
Best attempted in high summer when snow and glacier travel are more predictable; climb only with proper mountaineering experience or a certified guide.
Weather & Climate near Bonanza Peak (Washington) #
Bonanza Peak (Washington)'s climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in December). Temperatures range from -13°C to 15°C. Abundant rainfall (1622 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -13°C. Heavy rain (225 mm).
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February
February is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -11°C. Significant rainfall (168 mm).
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March
March is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -10°C. Significant rainfall (147 mm).
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April
April is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -8°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -4°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -1°C. Regular rainfall (95 mm).
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July
July is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (66 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 0°C. Regular rainfall (81 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -5°C. Significant rainfall (132 mm).
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November
November is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -10°C. Heavy rain (222 mm).
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December
December is the coldest month with highs of -5°C and lows of -13°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (231 mm).
