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.
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.
30-40 days
Extremely Technical
Base Camp Service: $3000
Two acclimatization rotations and a 4-5 stage big wall summit push.
Skardu Valley, Shigar Valley, Braldu River, and Baltoro Glacier trek.
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).
1,400-2,000 m of vertical granite, comparable to Yosemite's El Capitan.
This year, I had an opportunity to trek to K2 Basecamp, and I chose to go with Active Adventure. I must say, the entire experience was absolutely outstanding. The owner, Imran Shigri, is one of the most cooperative, humble, and genuinely caring people I’ve met. He made sure everything ran smoothly from start to finish. Every aspect of the trek was perfectly organized, from the camps to the food, the guide (Akbar), and the porters. The arrangements were comfortable, well-managed. If you're considering a trip to K2 Basecamp or any adventure in the region, I highly recommend Active AdventurePK. Their professionalism and hospitality truly set them apart. It was an unforgettable experience, and I’m grateful to have shared it with such an amazing team.
Amazing experience. Imran assembled a great support team for our K2 Basecamp and GGLA trek. The support staff were professionals and knew what they were doing. Besides their knowledge, they were super patient and helpful in every way. I will not hesitate reaching out to Imran Shigri and highly recommend Active Adventure Pk if you are considering K2 Basecamp or any other adventure. Thank you Imran Bhai for your service.
The best base camp in the Karakoram! We had the best food, tents, accommodations, staff and comfort of any of the Broad Peak and K2 base camps this past summer. Every other climber and trekker that came by commented on how much better our base camp was than any other in the Karakoram. The food was fantastic. After four 8000 meter peaks this was the only one I never lost any weight on because we ate so well! The staff also treated women equally to men something I saw the opposite of with many other companies. I am looking forward to using them again next year on Nanga Parbat. If you want the best in Pakistan contact Imran at ActiveAdventurePK!
Zeeshu Travel Agency provided outstanding service in Gilgit Baltistan. Everything was well managed and professional. Highly recommended!
Excellent service, professional guides and staff. Very well done!