Route: Cascades Trifecta (WA, OR)

The Cascades Trifecta consists of climbing the 3 highest peaks in the Northern Cascades. They are Mt. Rainier (14,411'), Mt. Adams (12,276'), and Mt. Hood (11,239'). Rainier is the highest peak in Washington, and Hood is the highest in Oregon. Standing on the summit of Adams, the other two peaks dominate the view, calling for a link-up. The route has become an icon of the PNW and received attention during the 2019 FKT of the year Celebrations. 

This route was originally established by the founders of FKT: Buzz Burrell, Peter Bakwin 

Red Tape Considerations:

Information on the cost and availability of climbing permits for Mount Rainier can be found on the Rainier National Park Website linked here. If an individual hopes to attempt this record solo, a separate Rainier solo permit must be applied for here.

One also needs to pay for a Mount Adams Climbing Permit 

Information about Hood Climbing Permit here

Climbing weather:

 Rainier 

 Adams 

 Hood

The "Cascades Trifecta Challenge"

Beyond chasing the FKT, the original challenge proposed by Buzz and Peter was to attempt to climb these three peaks within a 24-hour time period, from first trailhead to final trailhead. I think the spirit of this challenge should live on, anyone attempting the "Cascade Trifecta" Challenge should post their stories and time in the comments below regardless of besting the current FKT, or not. It is a magical experience to watch the sunrise from your first peak and the sunset on your final peak. 

News and attention for Cascades Trifecta:

"Climbers Set Speed Record" Spokesman Review

"Climbing Volcanoes Alone" FKT Podcast Ep. 49

"2019 FKT of the Year Nominees" FKT Podcast Ep.65

Max King and Bret Yost attempt "Cascades Trifecta"

Northwest Trifecta - Climber Magazine

"Three in one: teacher breaks mountaineering record"

"Cascades Trifecta Completed!" 

Much after the founding of this route, a "little brother" variation called "Guardian Peaks Trifecta" that excluded Rainier, replacing it with St. Helens was founded, serving as a lower risk variation that didn't necessitate garnering a solo permit on Rainier, to attempt solo.