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Summer Guide to Climbing Mt. Shasta: Best Routes for June, July, and August

Mt. Shasta, at 14,179 feet, serves as California’s premier alpine playground and offers training opportunities for summiting mountains around the world. Careful timing is crucial for a successful summit attempt. As snow melts and summer takes hold, the mountain’s...

Mexico Volcanoes Expedition Guide: Why This Trip Means So Much

Why I Wrote This:I wrote this to give an honest look into our Mexico Volcanoes Expeditions for those who may not know about them yet, and to help people more fully understand why they mean so much to us as a company. For me personally, this trip is deeply personal on...

A Gear List for Climbing Mount Shasta in May and June (2026 Edition)

Looking at what to pack in a functional way. Suggested packing list for a Shasta 2 or 3 day climb on Avalanche Gulch, West Face, or Casaval Ridge

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Help Us Bring a Beacon Park to Bear Valley

Help Us Bring a Beacon Park to Bear Valley

Here at SWS Mountain Guides, we've always believed our work is about sharing skills and building a stronger, safer mountain community. This winter, we’re excited to take that commitment a step further by working to bring a beacon park to Bear Valley. A beacon park is...

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Is Clear Creek Dangerous?

Is Clear Creek Dangerous?

With the recent accidents on Mt. Shasta's Clear Creek route, I've been thinking a lot about what may have contributed to them. I’ve guided people up that route more times than I can count anymore, and I can tell you firsthand, it’s not the casual stroll some expect....

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Welcome to the SWS / California Mountain Guides Blog

Welcome to the SWS / California Mountain Guides Blog

We’re excited to launch this space as a place to share stories, knowledge, and updates from the mountains we love. This blog isn’t about politics or noise—it’s about climbing, skiing, and mountaineering. Our goal here is simple: to highlight important topics that...

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