OverviewNestled in the Kolob Terrace section of western Zion National Park, the Northgate Peaks are often overshadowed by their more impressive and enigmatic next-door neighbor, North Guardian Angel. Still, these little puppies are fine peaks in their own right, and their summits are owners of striking views.
The Northgate Peaks, West and East, sit side by side on the threshold of North Guardian Angel. From a perch above the saddle between the two peaks, gazing south upon North Guardian Angel, those taking the easy walk to the end of the Northgate Peaks Trail generally do not take the time to head off and explore these small mountains’ worthwhile slopes. Their summit views are impressive and the scrambling/climbing is enjoyable.
The higher of the two peaks, West Northgate Peak, at 7267 feet, boasts a number of interesting scrambling/climbing routes, the easiest being the north face (appearing, but not verified, to be class 2-3). The peak’s west face is very steep, as is the east, and the south face offers moderate level technical climbing routes.
East Northgate Peak, at 7153 feet, is host to more friendly slopes for those looking for an “easy” scramble. A class 2 use trail/route, as well as several short and enjoyable class 2-3 lines, can be found on the north slope. Though the east face is extremely steep, the other faces appear to hold promise for reasonable and moderate routes.
With a short approach (1.5 miles one-way), and minimal elevation gain (about 500 ft each), both peaks can easily be done in a half-day.
*You might also check out my outdoor site (www.zionsummits.com), which provides access to trip reports, beta, photos and other stuff covering hiking, scrambling, climbing and canyoneering in Zion, Death Valley and Grand Canyon National Parks.
Getting ThereFrom I-15 in St. George (southern Utah), follow prominent signage toward Zion National Park. The signage will ultimately lead you to highway 9 and through the town of Hurricane. Continuing on highway 9 toward the park’s main entrance, look for the signed Kolob Terrace [aka – Reservoir] Road in the small town of Virgin, about 8-10 miles west of the park entrance.
Turn onto this paved road and follow it for about 15 miles to the signed Wildcat Canyon trailhead. The trailhead is located shortly beyond an obvious hairpin turn in the road. The trailhead will be on the right. It has restrooms and adequate parking for about 10 vehicles.
From the trailhead, follow the obvious trail for a little over a mile to signage directing you to a trail branching off to the right toward Northgate Peaks (the main trail continues to Wildcat Canyon).
Turn right and follow the Northgate Peaks Trail for about 100 yards to a junction with yet another trail. At the junction, the Northgate Peaks Trail heads off straight ahead while the alternative branches off prominently to the left. Follow the lesser-used Northgate Peaks Trail straight ahead toward the Northgate Peaks (and North Guardian Angel).
After a half-mile or so, the good trail ends at a sort of overlook on volcanic rock between West and East Northgate Peaks. From the overlook, North Guardian Angel will be immediately, and rather impressively, directly in front of you. Look for a faint use trail heading down and to the east from the overlook and follow it until it disappears a hundred yards later near the base of the overlook and in the saddle between the Northgate Peaks.
From the saddle between the two peaks, approach as necessary. For the most part, the approach to the bottom of the peaks is easy (though brushy in places) and technically insignificant. Route-finding issues should be minimal.
Since I have not explored the east face of East Northgate Peak or the west face of West Northgate Peak, I cannot comment with any authority on their approaches or their routes.
Also, for the north face of West Northgate Peak, a use trail and/or different cross-country approach may exist (I haven’t done the north face). Otherwise, simply traverse from the saddle around to the base of the north face.
Red TapeNo permits or fees are required to hike or climb Northgate Peaks. To my knowledge, permits are only required for climbs of a multi-day nature. Inquire at the ranger station, or call the number below, to be sure.
***On January 12, 2006, Sequoia added:
"We were told by a NPS Ranger this fall that even when you're along the Kolob Terrace Road part of Zion NP (which doesn't have an entrance/fee booth) you are still supposed to purchase a $20 Zion NP 7-day pass from the main entrance. He patrolled and did ask to see people's passes on occasion.
Or, do as I do, buy a $50 NPS pass that's good for an entire year to all National Parks, and then you're covered!"
When To ClimbMay to October is the optimal time, though summers can be hot.
When the winter snows come, the Kolob Reservoir Road is closed (and not plowed) many miles from the trailhead, making access considerably more difficult.
In spring, when the road is again accessible, lingering snow and ice on the various slopes and faces of the Northgate Peaks can make the going challenging and dangerous.
CampingThere are many nice campgrounds in and around the park. Too many to name.
Backcountry camping is also allowed inside the park with a permit. Contact the park for more information.
Mountain ConditionsThe weather for nearby St. George, UT.
You can also contact the ranger station (435-772-0170) if you want more info.
Summit Portraits Images
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