Shipton Spire Expedition

Shipton Spire Expedition Overview

Shipton Spire Expedition


The Shipton Spire Expedition (5,885 m) is one of the world's most legendary big wall climbs, located deep in Pakistan's Karakoram Range above the Baltoro Glacier. Rising nearly 2,000 meters from its base, Shipton Spire is often compared to El Capitan in Yosemite, but with higher altitude, harsher weather, and unmatched mountain scenery.


This climb is not just a test of physical strength, but also of technical skill and mental endurance. With routes that demand aid climbing, free climbing, and advanced wall techniques, Shipton Spire attracts elite climbers from across the globe. In return, you'll experience breathtaking views of the Trango Towers, Latok Peaks, Ogre (Baintha Brakk), Gasherbrums, Broad Peak, and K2.



Expedition Highlights


  • Tackle one of the world's greatest big wall climbs.
  • Ascend 1,400-2,000 m of vertical granite on Shipton Spire.
  • High-altitude rock climbing challenge in the Karakoram.
  • Stunning views of Trango Towers, Latok, Ogre, and K2.
  • Adventure along the Baltoro Glacier trek to base camp.
  • Remote and wild, designed for elite and technical climbers.


Best Time for Climbing


  • June to September is the ideal season for Shipton Spire.
  • During this window, temperatures are more favorable, and snow conditions are manageable for the Baltoro approach.


Difficulty and Requirements


  • Grade: Extremely Difficult (Big Wall / High-Altitude Rock Climbing).
  • Requires mastery of: Aid climbing techniques, multi-pitch rope systems, high-altitude rock climbing endurance.
  • Experience required: Prior big wall climbs and 6,000 m ascents.
  • Fitness level: Elite-level physical and mental preparation.


FAQs about Shipton Spire Expedition


1. Who can attempt Shipton Spire?

Shipton is for professional or elite climbers with extensive big wall and high-altitude climbing experience. It is not suitable for beginners.


2. How does Shipton Spire compare to the Trango Towers?

Both are world-class big walls. Trango is taller overall, but Shipton is often considered more technical due to its steep vertical granite faces.


3. What permits are required?

A mountaineering permit is required and must be arranged through a licensed tour operator in Pakistan.


Duration

30-40 days

Difficulty

Extremely Technical

Price

Base Camp Service: $3000



 Book your spot today

The trip initial deposit is mandatory to book your place earlier, Cancellation policy can be reviewed and term approval is required.

Trip Dates

Destination Trip Date Extra Information
No trip dates available.

Trip Details

Duration: 30-40 days

$ Price (per person) :
Base Camp Service: $3000

Difficulty: Extremely Technical

Includes: Guides, Porters, Permits, Camping








Itinerary

Location
Activity
Altitude
Islamabad to Skardu
Flight (1 hr) or 2-day drive on Karakoram Highway. Destination: Indus River Gorge, Skardu town. Mountain seen: Nanga Parbat (8,126 m).
540 m to 2,228 m
Skardu
Permits, supplies, and acclimatization. Visit Upper Kachura Lake and Shigar Fort.
2,228 m
Skardu to Askole
Jeep drive to Askole via Braldu Valley and Shigar Valley scenery.
3,050 m
Skardu to Askole
Continue jeep drive to Askole.
3,050 m
Askole to Jhola
Trek to Jhola.
3,150 m
Jhola to Paiju
Trek to Paiju. View Paiju Peak (6,610 m).
3,400 m
Paiju to Urdukas
Trek to Urdukas. First views of the Trango Group.
4,050 m
Urdukas to Shipton Base Camp
Trek to Shipton Base Camp, beneath Shipton Spire and Trango Towers.
4,200-4,300 m
Acclimatization
Load carry to Advanced Base Camp (4,600 m) and fix first few pitches on the wall.
4,600 m
Acclimatization
Climb higher and sleep lower to adapt.
4,600 m
Summit Push: Base Camp to ABC
Move to Advanced Base Camp.
4,600 m
Summit Push: Vertical Climbing
Begin vertical climbing and haul gear.
4,600 m
Summit Push: Camp I
Establish Camp I on the wall.
5,000 m
Summit Push: Camp II
Establish Camp II.
5,400 m
Summit Push: Summit
Tackle crux pitches (aid/free climbing) to reach Shipton Spire summit (5,885 m). Bivouac or descend with 30+ rappels. Summit day lasts 12-18 hrs.
5,885 m
Descent to Base Camp
Rappel descent to Base Camp.
4,200-4,300 m
Descent to Base Camp
Continue rappel descent to Base Camp.
4,200-4,300 m
Base Camp to Urdukas
Trek back to Urdukas.
4,050 m
Urdukas to Paiju
Trek back to Paiju.
3,400 m
Paiju to Jhola
Trek back to Jhola.
3,150 m
Jhola to Askole
Trek back to Askole.
3,050 m
Askole to Skardu
Jeep drive from Askole to Skardu.
2,228 m
Skardu to Islamabad
Flight (1 hr) or drive (2 days) from Skardu to Islamabad.
540 m

Photo Gallery

Trip Highlights

Summit Process

Two acclimatization rotations and a 4-5 stage big wall summit push.

Beautiful Destinations

Skardu Valley, Shigar Valley, Braldu River, and Baltoro Glacier trek.

Famous Mountains

Views of Shipton Spire (5,885 m), Trango Towers (6,286 m), Latok I (7,145 m), Ogre (7,285 m), Masherbrum (7,821 m), Gasherbrum I (8,080 m), Gasherbrum II (8,035 m), Broad Peak (8,051 m), and K2 (8,611 m).

Big Wall Climbing

1,400-2,000 m of vertical granite, comparable to Yosemite's El Capitan.

Saad Sadiq

Very Good Agency to book trips and tours

Saad Sadiq

Latest from Instagram

Active Adventure PK Logo

Have Questions?

Contact us today for custom itineraries, private treks, or expedition support. Our team will help you plan the perfect adventure.

📌 Available 24/7

+92 355 5652300