At the start of 2024, climbers wanting to top Mount Hood must first get an authorization. According to the U.S. Forest Service, any climber preparation to travel above 9,500 feet on the 11,249-foot mountain can buy a $20 three-day authorization or a $50 yearly pass.
In the announcement, the Forest Service said the allowing system was proposed in late 2022 due to the growing appeal of climbing Mount Hood. The agency described that nearly 10,000 individuals climb up the mountain yearly, however it has only had funding for a single seasonal climbing up ranger. The allowing system will alter that.
“Cash gathered from the climbing authorization will money extra climbing rangers, more security and climber education, more frequent conditions reports and forecasting, more resource security and waste management, and a better overall climbing program,” the Forest Service stated.
The launch of a permitting system ends a years-long argument about whether one needs to even exist. According to reports, Mount Hood– a dormant volcano and highest point in Oregon– has actually claimed the lives of more than 130 climbers because the 1880s.
For the many part, a lot of climbing up groups and regional climbers have high hopes for the system. Throughout the commenting period, numerous argued that more information would enable site managers to better plan and improve the climbing experience.
Although the Forest Service will not limit the number of climbers enabled to be on the mountain, the agency stated the license system will put it in line with a number of other Waterfalls peaks.
For those wanting an authorization, you can buy one on Recreation.gov beginning Jan. 1, 2024.
Beginning in 2024, if you wish to summit the tallest point in Oregon, you’ll have to very first get a Mount Hood climbing up authorization.