Extracted from Hike Aid 16, dated January 2016
Note: In the event of a conflict between this web page and the Hike Aid, the Hike Aid takes precedence.

Introduction

The Peak Bagger Program is designed to stimulate a greater appreciation of the alpine wilderness, while persons experience the beauty, peace and majesty of the mountains. Each peak has been carefully selected so that a variety of locations may be reached on backpacking treks, without the use of mountaineering skills. The Peak Bagger Award is a cumulative award series that recognizes High Adventure achievement, and is shown on the front cover. While few people are privileged to make first ascents, it is possible to experience the thrill of standing on the windswept summit and carry the memory forever. Look upon the lush, flower-starred greenness of alpine meadows, the harsh purity of rocky landscapes above timberline, or the almost supernatural touch of alpenglow upon the peaks, and you will surely join the growing ranks of those who love the mountains.

Careful planning is a must before climbing each of the peaks listed here. Unit leadership must consult trail guides or booklets on the area and forest service and topographic maps, and seek information from fellow backpackers. Route descriptions and profiles for most of these peaks are to be found in the books listed in Reference Materials. Many sources of information should be used diligently to ensure the success of hiking and climbing experiences.

The Peak Bagger Program is graduated to fill the needs of all, from the relative novice to the experienced mountaineer. The Basic Award is easy enough for the newcomer who is ready and willing to put forth that extra effort required. But, even the Basic Award is more than just climbing five mountains. The groups of peaks are such that a Scout has the opportunity to enjoy various sections of the California wilderness as an Award is earned. It is also a learning experience, that is, learning the effects of high altitude, the need for carrying the ten essentials, and the rewards and sense of achievement from standing on a mountain top.

Once the Basic Peak Bagger has been earned, any peak in a higher group may be substituted for a peak requirement in a lower group, e.g., a Group F peak for a Group D peak. The list of qualifying peaks is considered sufficiently extensive that most Units should find it relatively easy to select mountains that satisfy their particular needs. For this reason, there should be no need for substitutes beyond the approved list. Substitutes may be granted only in unusual circumstances after a written request is submitted for consideration of the Greater Los Angeles Area Council High Adventure Team prior to climbing a peak.

There is no time limit for earning these awards. Therefore, it is essential that an accurate record be maintained to ensure that each participant receives proper credit. The Peak Bagger Award Record is suggested for this purpose. It is also to be used in applying for an award. Happy climbing, and remember -

"Nothing of worth or weight can be
achieved with half a mind, with a faint
heart, or with lame endeavor" - Barrow

Specific Requirements

1. Earn two weekend awards (as defined in Hike Aid 6, "High Adventure Awards Program"), before beginning to climb peaks that qualify for these awards.
2. Plan and complete each trip conforming to the following:
   1. The trip (including the final ascent) must be distributed over two or more consecutive days with an overnight stay (trail or dispersed site camp preferred). For weekend trips, at least four scheduled backpack hours must be planned.
   2. The ascent to the summit must be as part of a trek from the designated trailhead or approach.
   3. On the final ascent, carry the Ten Essentials-Plus and other clothing and equipment appropriate to the conditions.
   4. Only one peak is allowed for a weekend outing. Two peaks are the maximum for credit on a week-long hike (seven days, six nights minimum duration).
3. Awards are earned as follows:
   1. Basic - Climb 5 peaks, consisting of no more than two from any Group.
   2. 10 peak - Climb five additional peaks consisting of one each from Groups A, B, C and two from Group D.
   3. 15 peak - Climb five additional peaks consisting of two from Group C, two from Group D and one from Group E.
   4. Senior (20) - Climb five additional peaks consisting of two from Group D and three from Group E.
   5. Mountaineer (25) - Climb five additional peaks consisting of two from Group E and three from Group F.
   No peak may be climbed more than once for credit.
4. Upon completion of the requirements for the Basic, 10-Peak, and 15-Peak Awards, submit the Award Record to the GLAAC Scout Shop to purchase them. The Senior and Mountaineer Awards require approval of a member of the High Adventure Team before purchase.
5. Once the Mountaineer Award is earned, the process may be repeated to earn an additional set of awards.

"Climb the mountains and get their glad tidings" - John Muir

Rating System

Although people of varied capabilities will be using this guide, an attempt is made here to provide uniform ratings for the trips to the peaks. The rating system is based on two factors, (1) the approach, and (2) the class of climb. The "Rating" column for the Approved Peaks list shows a letter and number, for each peak.

Approach rating:
This considers the difficulty of the ascent and the time required.

"M" = an easy to moderate, two day trip.
"H" = a strenuous two, day trip.
"S" = a moderate to strenuous, three day trip.
"L" = a peak normally climbed as part of a week-long hike.

Class of Climb Rating:
The Sierra Club uses these classifications.

1 = A trail leads all the way to the summit. Almost any footgear could be used, but boots are recommended for more comfortable hiking.

2 = The final ascent (usually above your camp site) has no maintained trail; however, a "climber's route" may sometimes be followed. The terrain is rougher and proper footgear, such as lug-soled boots with good traction, are strongly recommended. Hands may occasionally be used for balance in climbing.

3 = Handholds and footholds are used; lug-soled boots are required. Exposure is such that some persons may wish to be belayed at times, so a rope, and knowledge of its use, should be taken.

Although experienced persons in good physical condition may find that they can make some of these climbs more easily and quickly than indicated by the ratings here, these ratings are intended for the average Scout Unit that has a continuing backpack program. Even though some mountains involving Class 3 climbing have been included, they are relatively easy for persons with considerable experience in route finding and climbing Class 2. When in doubt, turn back! It is usually more difficult to climb down Class 3 routes than to go up. Always carefully research and plan the ascent of such a peak.

Peak climbing may be attempted most seasons, provided every safety precaution is observed! However, since snow pack conditions vary, travel over ice and snow will require additional time, capability, and proper snow and ice travel equipment. The approach rating will usually be raised by at least one letter where travel over them will be encountered.

Approved Peaks - Southern California

Approved Peaks - Sierras

Approved Peaks - Philmont

Peaks from the following list that are climbed while on a trek may be used to satisfy the requirements for a Peak Bagger Award.

There are also peaks that may be climbed for Mini-Peak Bagger credit. However, only two peak climbs on a single Philmont trek may be used toward earning an GLAAC sponsored award. Both may be Peak Bagger or Mini-Peak Bagger, or one for each award. Crew leaders must advise Philmont - Logistics, before beginning the trek, of any peak climb to be taken that is not on the route of its approved itinerary.