Ruby Mountain

Ruby Mountain is a bulky mass that is smack in the middle of the North Cascades. The mountain rises steadily 6200 feet above Thunder Arm in just over two miles. As such Ruby renders a queenly stance toward the Pasayten Wilderness, Ross Lake, and the Picket Range. The true summit on the western end connects to the lower eastern peak with a curving ridge. Despite its hulking appearance, Ruby is quite reasonable on the northwest side where scramblers can readily access a towering perch at this outpost of the resplendent sea of peaks of the North Cascades. As one emerges high on Ruby’s open alpine slopes, the scene is impressive in all directions and just keeps getting better. Either with or without snow, Ruby is a true gem of a scramble. But beware: Ruby can be treacherous, for it is a long, physical trip that requires routefinding skills to avoid steep belts and cliff bands.