Mount Shasta via Clear Creek

This route begins and ends at the Clear Creek Trailhead after reaching the summit of Mount Shasta from Clear Creek. From the trailhead, follow the Clear Creek Trail northwest through a moderate coniferous forest. Keep right at 0.8 miles to continue climbing along the ridge above Mud Creek. Around 2.6 miles and 8,300', descend off of the ridge to the southwest. At approximately 3.1 miles and 8,600', pass through the Clear Creek Meadow, which offers seasonal spring water and campsites. From the meadow, the defined trail fades into a heavily eroded volcanic scree path. Ascend north-northwest up the ridge, keeping the chasm of Mud Creek Canyon on your left. Climb approximately 3,000 vertical feet through steep, loose pumice and sand. At 12,800', pass the prominent red rock formation known as "Mushroom Rock." Crux: The rock bulge above Mushroom Rock on the upper ridge can be climbed left, right, or straight up depending on conditions; flanking lines on snow or ice carry fall consequences, so commit only to terrain within your ability. Mark the top of the bulge on your navigation device before the final push — descending in the correct location is critical. Above Mushroom Rock, climb another 1,300 vertical feet through increasingly steep scree and snow fields to reach the summit plateau.Traverse the plateau to the final rocky summit block and climb to the peak of Mount Shasta at 14,179'. Retrace your steps back down the scree ridge to the trailhead, exercising caution on the loose descent.