Moose's Tooth

Ham and Eggs Route

Alaska's Most Iconic Mixed Climb

The Moose's Tooth stands as one of Alaska's most recognizable and sought-after alpine objectives. The Ham and Eggs route offers a spectacular mixed climbing experience, combining technical ice, mixed terrain, and stunning alpine rock on one of the range's most aesthetic peaks.

This route is perfect for climbers looking to step up their game in the Alaska Range. With sustained climbing at moderate grades, incredible position, and world-class scenery, Ham and Eggs delivers an unforgettable alpine experience.

Climbing the summit ridge of Moose's Tooth

Ready to Join Us?

Secure your spot for an unforgettable climb of the Moose's Tooth

2:1 Ratio

$7,600

per person

1:1 Private

$10,900

per person

Please reach out if cost is a barrier.

Duration

7 days (to allow for some weather days)

Guide Ratio

Max 2:1 ratio

Meeting Point

TAT Pavilion, Talkeetna, Alaska

Grade

AI4 5.9/M4 Grade V

Prerequisites

Prior experience on multipitch ice or mixed climbing

Best Season

April - June

Required Skills

  • • Comfortable climbing AI3-4 / M3-4
  • • Experience with glacier travel and crevasse rescue
  • • Ability to handle cold weather camping and self-care
  • • Strong fitness for sustained climbing days

The Ham and Eggs route on the Moose's Tooth is a classic Alaska Range mixed climb that has become a rite of passage for aspiring alpinists. First climbed in 1975, this route combines everything that makes Alaska climbing special: sustained technical climbing, incredible exposure, and jaw-dropping scenery.

The route follows a stunning line up the southeast face of the peak, featuring:

Technical Mixed Climbing

Sustained pitches of ice and mixed terrain up to AI4/M4

Spectacular Position

Climbing on one of the most photogenic peaks in the Alaska Range

Summit Ridge Traverse

An unforgettable knife-edge ridge to the summit

Moderate but Committing

Technical difficulty is moderate, but the route is long and committing

The climb typically takes 12-16 hours round trip from base camp, making it a long day but allowing for a single-push ascent in good conditions.

Background

Day 1: Arrival & Preparation

Meet in Talkeetna, conduct gear check, review objectives and conditions, prepare for fly-in.

Day 2: Fly to Glacier & Establish Camp

Scenic flight into the Ruth Gorge, establish base camp, acclimatization walk.

Day 3: Skills Review & Approach Recon

Crevasse rescue review, mixed climbing practice, scout approach to the route.

Days 4+: Climbing Days & Weather Windows

Flexible days for summit attempt(s) based on weather. May include additional preperation or rest days.

Final Day: Fly Out

Break camp and return flight to Talkeetna.

Expert Instruction & Mentorship

Certified guide with extensive Alaska experience

Group Camping Equipment

Tents, cooking gear, stoves, fuel, wands

Round-Trip Glacier Flight

Scenic flight to and from Ruth Gorge

Technical Group Gear

Ropes, ice screws, pickets, rock protection, snow anchors

Meals on Glacier

Breakfasts & Dinners (bring your own snacks and lunch items)

Unforgettable Mountain Experience

Included at no extra charge

  • Personal climbing equipment (boots, crampons, ice tools, harness)
  • Personal clothing and sleeping bag rated to -20°F
  • Lunches and snacks during expedition
  • Meals in town before/after expedition
  • Accommodation in Talkeetna
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Gratuities for guides and pilots

Pricing

2:1 Ratio

$7,600

per person

1:1 Private Guiding

$10,900

per person

Financial assistance may be available.

Please reach out if cost is a barrier.

Season & Availability

April - June (flexible scheduling)

What level of experience do I need?

You should be comfortable following multipitch ice and mixed routes at AI3-4 / M3-4. Previous glacier travel experience is helpful - we'll cover crevasse rescue skills during the trip if neccesary. Good fitness is essential as summit day is long and sustained.

What gear should I bring?

You'll need personal climbing gear (boots, crampons, ice tools, harness), appropriate clothing for Alaska conditions, and personal items. We provide all group gear, ropes, and protection. We recommend having your own gear that you're comfortable with. However, feel free to contact us to discuss specific gear needs - we can help connect you with rental options or provide guidance on what to acquire. A detailed gear list will be provided upon booking.

What are the weather conditions like?

April through June offers the best conditions for the route. Temperatures typically range from -10°F to 40°F. The Alaska Range is known for rapid weather changes, so we build flexibility into the itinerary to take advantage of good weather windows.

What if we don't summit due to weather?

Weather is always a factor in Alaska. Our itinerary includes buffer days and we'll work with you to maximize climbing opportunities. If conditions prevent a summit attempt, we may pursue alternative objectives in the area. No refunds are provided for weather-related changes.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations more than 60 days before the trip receive a full refund minus a $500 administrative fee. 30-60 days: 50% refund. Less than 30 days: no refund unless we can fill your spot. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance.

Can I extend the trip or add other climbs?

Absolutely! Many climbers use extra days for additional objectives in the Ruth Gorge area. Contact us to discuss custom itineraries and pricing for extended trips.

Gallery

Moose's Tooth climbing photo 1
Moose's Tooth climbing photo 2
Moose's Tooth climbing photo 3
Moose's Tooth climbing photo 4