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2013-09-25T12:26:07.274-07:00
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-442696999850479628
2009-08-04T22:20:00.000-07:00
2009-08-04T22:47:55.059-07:00
Tower Mountain - West Gully, July 11
<a href="uploaded_images/tower.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tower_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tower Mountain (right of center) as seen from the Northeast Ridge of Black Peak (Eric H. photo)." /></a><br /><br />Having worn my last pair of mountaineering boots well past their prime, I found myself frantically searching for a new pair. REI's internet-only Garmont Tower GTX boot sale presented an offer I could not refuse; an offer made even better by putting my REI dividend towards the purchase. With the great price and better than expected fit, it seemed only fitting that the maiden voyage for these boots would be Tower Mountain itself.<br /><br />As seen from many summits in the Washington Pass area, Tower Mountain presents itself as a slanting rock fin rising abruptly from the undulating terrain at the southern edge of the Pasayten Wilderness. Ever since I first laid eyes on the peak in 2002 from the top of Liberty Bell, Tower has held my imagination and curiosity. I however always seemed to have had greater climbing priorities; that is until now. My 'thing' these days seems to be day-trip scrambles from Seattle (lame I know, but at least I'm not claiming some FKT nonsense). Armed with the Swamp Creek approach beta and a good estimate on how much time the approach and climb should take, I managed to convince Eli into joining me on this seemingly masochistic enterprise.<br /><br />Full report <a href="http://www.sverdina.com/tower/tower1.htm" target="new_window">here</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-442696999850479628?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-3125525894326374052
2009-08-13T21:44:00.000-07:00
2009-08-13T21:52:18.795-07:00
Mount Deception - Gilhooley Saddle, July 18
<a href="uploaded_images/deception.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/deception_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Deception Peak and Mount Mystery (left-to-right) as seen from Mount Anderson." /></a><br /><br />At most I might average a single Olympics trip a year. After all there's only so much choss that even I can take. Having climbed both Anderson and Deception within a few weeks of each other, one might ask what the hell has gotten in to me this summer. Have I lost my mind?<br /><br />Whatever. I had it on relatively good authority that a trip to climb Mount Deception would be well worth the effort, no matter how loose or easy the climb for that matter. From outrageously scenic Royal Basin to the lofty summit (by Olympic standards) with its expansive views of surprisingly rugged peaks both near and far, Deception doesn't disappoint. But make no mistake; the peak certainly harbors some awful rock, although frankly I didn't find it any worse than that which I have encountered on so many peaks in that mountain range east of the Sound. Besides, being that it's the second tallest peak in the Olympic Mountains alone warrants visitation by any avid Seattle-based...er, um <i>chossaholic</i> in my opinion. It certainly also doesn't hurt that the climb is doable in a day from my bed in North Seattle. Bed-to-bed in less than 20 hours I like to say...ha ha! Had I not gotten hosed by the damn ferry wait once again I'd have made it home in time for a late dinner even!<br /><br />Full report <a href="http://www.sverdina.com/deception/deception1.htm" target="new_window">here</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-3125525894326374052?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-3890327951823663868
2009-09-02T23:49:00.000-07:00
2009-10-06T22:50:57.687-07:00
Tantalus Mountain - North Ridge, July 25-27
<a href="uploaded_images/tantalusnr.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tantalusnr_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tantalus Mountain as seen from Alpha Mountain." /></a><br /><br />For our third and (probably) final Tantalus Range installment, Eric and I set out to climb the North Ridge of Tantalus Mountain. As before, we prearranged a heli-bump up to our home for the next two nights, this time at a location below the North Ridge proper. We expected to be dropped off at a luxuriously comfortable camp spot somewhere on a heathery ridge crest at the head of Mawby Creek. So it came as a bit of a surprise when the pilot informed us that he could only drop us off at one of two somewhat uninviting locations. Not exactly an exposed perch, but the col overlooking the northern most margin of the Rumbling Glacier was not exactly what we had in mind.<br /><br />Full report <a href="http://www.sverdina.com/tantalus_range/tantalus_range2.htm" target="new_window">here</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-3890327951823663868?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-2662124219326606016
2009-10-06T22:33:00.000-07:00
2009-10-07T09:34:36.100-07:00
Ashlu Mountain - East Ridge, August 15-16
<a href="uploaded_images/ashlu_intro.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ashlu_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Ashlu Mountain as seen from Tantalus Mountain (background center)." /></a><br /><br />As was the case with Mount Rexford, Welch Peak, Overseer Mountain, Mount Matier and probably a handful of other peaks in BC that I have since forgotten about, I first learned of Ashlu Mountain while perusing the many trip reports on Bivouac.com. The Ashlu report describes a stout 5.10a rock climb on the peak's impressive South Face. Though the climb itself certainly intrigued me, the photos depicting the wild, glaciated scenery in this remote corner of the Coast Range were really what captured my imagination. Years went by and I would have all but forgotten about Ashlu were it not for a chance sighting while heli-skiing near Powder Mountain last March. Seen as an aesthetic pyramid of rock towering above neighboring peaks, Ashlu's lure was too much to resist a second time around. Content with simply scrambling up the peak's East Ridge, Eli and I chose Ashlu as our 'debut' climb for a two-week romp in the mountains of BC and AB.<br /><br />Full report <a href="http://www.sverdina.com/ashlu/ashlu1.htm" target="new_window">here</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-2662124219326606016?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-4051930251241809095
2009-10-16T19:39:00.000-07:00
2009-10-16T19:43:51.029-07:00
Cirque Peak - North Ridge, August 17-19
<a href="uploaded_images/cirque_intro.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cirque_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Cirque Peak in background left of center as seen from the toe of Place Glacier. Mount Olds in background right-of-center with subpeak at far right." /></a><br /><br />With soreness in the legs only just developing from the previous day's Ashlu climb, Eli and I got a lazy afternoon start from North Vancouver. We selected the North Ridge of Cirque Peak from Matt Gunn's Scrambles Guide as our next objective as it looked to us to be one of the more aesthetic, if not challenging (and loose) scrambles in the guide. The peak also lies in an area of mountains near Pemberton, BC neither of us had visited before. The idea of 'discovering' yet another perspective on the Coast Mountains was exciting to us. The fact that Cirque Peak seemed to offer a fun ridge climb with great position was an added bonus.<br /><br />Full report <a href="http://www.sverdina.com/cirque/cirque1.htm" target="new_window">here</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-4051930251241809095?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-4045761305667818565
2009-11-04T00:15:00.000-08:00
2009-11-04T00:20:50.237-08:00
Overseer Mountain - Southeast Face, August 19-21
<a href="uploaded_images/overseer_intro.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/overseer_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Overseer Mountain as seen from Cirque Peak summit." /></a><br /><br />Eli and I had time for one more Coast Range climb before making good on our already twice-revised plans and high-tailing it east for objectives in the Canadian Rockies. Sticking with a theme that had treated us well up until now, we narrowed our choices to a handful of selections from the Scrambles Guide. With the vast expanse of snow and ice surrounding the peak, I had always wanted to climb Overseer Mountain, preferably as a spring ski tour. However, approach and access considerations aside, the peak was just too far out of sight and mind to register on most of my Seattleite friends' radar.<br /><br />Hiking down from our Cirque Peak camp at mid-morning on a smoky Wednesday in August, it occurred to me that there was probably no better time than the present to go for Overseer. We had the time, favorable weather conditions, and were in the general area to boot. I could always come back in the spring sometime if I cared enough to 'board down it. Eli was of a similar opinion and so without further discussion we set our sights on the highest peak in the Pemberton Icefield.<br /><br />Full report <a href="http://www.sverdina.com/overseer/overseer1.htm" target="new_window">here</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-4045761305667818565?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-6195223471723281150
2009-11-19T17:08:00.000-08:00
2009-11-19T22:23:50.521-08:00
Mount Assiniboine - North Ridge, August 23-26
<a href="uploaded_images/assiniboine_intro_lg.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/assiniboine_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Assiniboine as seen on the approach near Assiniboine Pass." /></a><br /><br />The iconic Matterhorn of the Canadian Rockies, Mount Assiniboine is a classic peak popular among climbers the world-over. I first heard the calling several years ago when Eric Hoffman and I intended to climb the peak during a 10-day stint in the Rockies and Selkirks of British Columbia. Unfortunately, reports suggested that conditions weren't favorable for an ascent of the North Ridge, as a late-August storm had plastered the peak with considerable amounts of fresh snow. Enter plan 'B'. Leaving Lake Louise, we pointed the car north on the Icefields Parkway and went on to climb Mount Athabasca instead.<br /><br />Come August 2009, it seemed as if Eli and I were doomed to suffer a similar fate. A storm the week prior to our two-week trip in Canada once again blasted the top 1500 feet with new snow. Hoping to capitalize on the week's worth of forecasted sunshine and warmer temperatures in and around Kananaskis Country, we delayed our Canadian Rockies itinerary so as to allow time for some of the new snow to melt off. Now, after having burned through the first half of our trip gallivanting in the Coast Range, we felt conditions up on Assiniboine were about as good as they were going to get for us. With Eli's WRX packed to the gills, we departed North Vancouver for the long drive over to Lake Louise.<br /><br />Full report <a href="http://www.sverdina.com/assiniboine/assiniboine1.htm" target="new_window">here</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-6195223471723281150?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-2114394856492095021
2009-12-05T12:55:00.000-08:00
2009-12-05T13:02:16.375-08:00
Mount Edith Cavell - West Ridge, August 28
<a href="uploaded_images/edith_cavell_intro_lg.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/edith_cavell_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Edith Cavell as seen from Cavell Lake." /></a><br /><br />With our two weeks in Western Canada coming to a close, there was just enough time for one last Rockies' classic before returning home. Named after a nurse who was executed by the Germans for helping allied solders escape from occupied Belgium to the Netherlands during World War I, Mount Edith Cavell is arguably the most popular and frequently climbed peak in Jasper National Park. Although the North Face has the honor of being included in Steck and Roper's book Fifty Classic Climbs of North America, the aesthetic (and moderate) East Ridge deservedly gets the most attention. Having previously glimpsed the hulking shale wall with its characteristic tilted bands of snow and ice seemingly emanating from the prominent East Ridge, the peak has long been an obvious must-do climb for me.<br /><br />Full report <a href="http://www.sverdina.com/edith_cavell/edith_cavell1.htm" target="new_window">here</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-2114394856492095021?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-6692970363842378297
2009-12-13T23:13:00.000-08:00
2009-12-14T00:07:01.680-08:00
Sunshine Coast - Sept. 4-7
And now for a relaxing Labor Day weekend on BC's scenic Sunshine Coast. True to the forecast, the crummy weather put the kibosh on any hope of exploring the increasingly popular rock climbing in and around Powell River. Highlights instead include a bike loop on Savary Island and kayaking around Okeover Inlet and Desolation Sound Provincial Marine Park in a downpour. Rain or shine, there's a lot more than a long weekend worth of stuff to see and do here and a visit is well worth the two ferry sailings and long drive.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/sunshine_coast00.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/sunshine_coast00_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Cars on the ferry at Saltery Bay." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/sunshine_coast01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/sunshine_coast01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Strolling along a beach on the north shore of Savary Island." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/sunshine_coast02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/sunshine_coast02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Vancouver Island in distance from south shore of Savary Island." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/sunshine_coast03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/sunshine_coast03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The island makes for a great bike loop." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/sunshine_coast04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/sunshine_coast04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="We found the sun on a beach near Indian Point!" /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/sunshine_coast05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/sunshine_coast05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Good wind and kiting at South Beach." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/sunshine_coast06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/sunshine_coast06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Not exactly ideal kayaking weather." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/sunshine_coast07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/sunshine_coast07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata kayaking in Okeover Inlet." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/sunshine_coast08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/sunshine_coast08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking across Howe Sound from the ferry ride back to Horseshoe Bay." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-6692970363842378297?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-5119527720556737899
2009-12-14T20:55:00.000-08:00
2009-12-14T21:21:03.544-08:00
Devil's Gulch mountain biking - Sept. 12
Arguably one of the best XC rides in the state, the Devil's Gulch Trail is a must-do ride for the casual and avid mountain biker alike. To that end, Agata and I were joined by fellow Lake Wenatchee campers Heather Henricks, Mike LeRoy and Scott Shillito for an afternoon out on the singletrack. A large washout a couple miles before the trailhead proper, however eliminated any possibility of a car shuttle and left us to ponder the merits of a rather longish 28-mile loop. <br /><br />Many years have passed since I last did this ride and it seems that I conveniently forgot about the occasionally steep 12+ miles of UP. We were all pretty pooped by the time we reached the upper-trailhead and wanted nothing but a quick, mellow ride back to the car. Alas it seems I forgot about the DOWN as well, for it was neither quick nor mellow. Suffice to say, it was also a real workout surviving the descent on a circa 1999 hardtail without disk brakes. In any case, Devil's Gulch is still a great ride but make sure you come prepared for a long uphill grind and for heaven's sake have at least 100mm of travel for the ride down!<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/devils_gulch01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/devils_gulch01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Town of Wenatchee as seen from shortly before upper-trailhead." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/devils_gulch02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/devils_gulch02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Walking the bikes long after the early vigor has expired." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/devils_gulch04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/devils_gulch04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mike enjoys the riding on his soft tail." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/devils_gulch06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/devils_gulch06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata cruising a smoother section of trail." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/devils_gulch07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/devils_gulch07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Beginning the descent into the gulch proper." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-5119527720556737899?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-2415836097769162359
2009-12-16T22:03:00.000-08:00
2009-12-16T23:07:03.288-08:00
Mount Larrabee & Am. Border Pk - West Ridge, Sept. 26 - 27
<a href="uploaded_images/larrabee_intro_lg.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/larrabee_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Larrabee as seen from High Pass with West Ridge on left skyline." /></a><br /><br />Ok, I got "greedy". At least so says John of our failed attempt at climbing American Border Peak. The decision to "quickly run up" Mount Larrabee on our way to camp below American Border Peak proved to be a bad call. It's not that it can't be done; mind you, assuming one can follow basic directions. Going on good beta which I somehow misinterpreted, the idea was to drop our packs by the Gargett Mine at the end of the trail shortly beyond High Pass. Then we were to continue up and right (faint trail here) to rejoin the standard Southwest Route. Instead of doing this however, I blindly led our party on a tedious traverse across countless gullies and ribs high on the West Face towards a broad shoulder below the West Ridge. Not only did this eat time and energy, it brought us closer to our final objective, American Border Peak while at the same time distancing us from where we left our packs back at the mine.<br /><br />We nevertheless climbed Larrabee via the horribly loose West Ridge and returned relatively late in the day to camp in the first basin below the West Face. We were two basins short, hours from where we wanted to be, and were we to go for ABP the next day, we would definitely be hiking out in the dark. Fatigue and hesitation then got the better of partners Ben and John and plans for a sortie on ABP were promptly scrapped. I'll do a better job of keeping my eye on the prize next time!<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/larrabee02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/larrabee02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On the approach to High Pass." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/larrabee03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/larrabee03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The only enjoyable scrambling on the West Ridge." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/larrabee04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/larrabee04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="John and Ben approach a deliciously loose knife edge section about half way up the West Ridge." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/larrabee05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/larrabee05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="John on Larrabee's summit with Tomyhoi Peak in background." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/larrabee07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/larrabee07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="American Border Peak at center with Canadian Border Peak peeking at left." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/larrabee06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/larrabee06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Rexford Group at center-midground with Mount Payne, Mount Rideout and Silvertip Mountain (left-to-right) in background." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/larrabee08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/larrabee08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Cheam Range in background with Welch Peak in center-background." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/larrabee09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/larrabee09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Slesse as seen from the south." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/larrabee10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/larrabee10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Afternoon light on Mount Baker's Boulder and Park Glaciers." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/larrabee11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/larrabee11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama looking east." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-2415836097769162359?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-894413702017029745
2009-12-18T22:20:00.000-08:00
2009-12-21T23:22:32.349-08:00
West Lion - South Route, October 4
<a href="uploaded_images/west_lion_intro_lg.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/west_lion_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The Lions as seen from Capilano Lake at Cleveland Dam (West Lion at left)." /></a><br /><br />Back in N. Van for the weekend, I couldn't pass-up the unexpected good fall weather just lounging about the house. While the North Shore riding on Mount Fromme was a blast as always, I was really looking forward to once-and-for-all scrambling up West Lion the day after. Hands down the most prominent and obvious peaks as seen from downtown Vancouver, the hike up to The Lions is a notoriously popular undertaking, akin to our own Mount Si, but with far better views.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/west_lion01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/west_lion01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Follow the sun to the Lions - sign along the trail." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/west_lion02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/west_lion02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View across Howe Sound from trail." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/west_lion03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/west_lion03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="West and East Lion as seen from shoulder below West Lion." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/west_lion04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/west_lion04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Grandpa Joe shows me the way across the infamous West Lion traverse (exposed class 3 - 4)." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/west_lion05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/west_lion05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Steep scrambling on West Lion." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/west_lion06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/west_lion06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View north from summit with Mount Garibaldi at far left." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/west_lion07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/west_lion07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking west from summit across Howe Sound. Gorgeous, eh?" /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/west_lion08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/west_lion08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eighty+ year-old and still going strong Joe takes-in the view from West Lion summit for the 32nd time?" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-894413702017029745?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-7072979932320255814
2010-01-09T19:21:00.000-08:00
2010-01-09T16:13:26.182-08:00
Scary Canary - October 11
The temperature at our trailhead bivy the night prior to our Serpentene Arete attempt was well below freezing, and remained comfortably below the 20-degree mark all that next day thanks to the arctic air which was in place over much of the state that weekend. The prospect of enduring that kind of cold on a large north-facing wall where the sun now remains absent until Spring gnawed away at my motivation throughout the approach. Unable to feel my fingers and my toes and feeling wholly unsecure scrambling along the snow-dusted ledge low on the route, I eventually decided I'd had enough. We salvaged what was left of the short day climbing Canary on Castle Rock instead. Tod did a fine lead up the first 5.8 pitch with a stout finish onto Saber Ledge. The airy and classic step off the ledge at the start of p2 really gets the blood flowing and is easily the highlight of the route. Yes, a far cry from Serpentine Arete but at least now I have something to look forward to come spring or summer this year.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/scary_canary1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/scary_canary1_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Dragontail and Colchuck as seen from the outlet of Colchuck Lake." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/scary_canary2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/scary_canary2_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking up first pitch of Canary. The pitch ends at Saber Ledge just right of the prominent roof at right." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/scary_canary3.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/scary_canary3_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Todd nears the top of Castle Rock." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-7072979932320255814?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-5455042821305345976
2010-01-06T11:55:00.000-08:00
2010-01-12T12:31:08.127-08:00
Crystal b/c - Nov. 7 & 14
Did a couple tours out in the Crystal b/c when the getting was good this past autumn. Combined with a few deep weekends at Whistler late in November, it seems conditions have either been warm and wet or cold and dry (and firm) ever since. Here's to wishing that punk El Nino leaves us alone for a few months...<br /><br /><b>Crystal - Cayuse Pass loop</b><br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/crystal_cayuse02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystal_cayuse02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning up into Silver Basin." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/crystal_cayuse03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystal_cayuse03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tod and Kinley approach 3-Way Gap." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/crystal_cayuse04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystal_cayuse04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="After a short descent, than an ascent to Sourdough Gap(?) followed by another descent, we again make our way back uphill towards Sheep Gap(?)" /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/crystal_cayuse05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystal_cayuse05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eli skis slopes above Sheep Lake." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/crystal_cayuse06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystal_cayuse06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Late afternoon ski down a chute on Pk. 6904 towards Crystal Lakes Basin. " /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/crystal_cayuse07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystal_cayuse07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Darkness and blowing snow on the long slog back to 3-Way Gap. Back at the lot much later than expected ~ 7pm, all thanks to a pooped 70-lb dog and the owner having to carry her out in his backpack!" /></a><br /><br /><b>Union Creek/Bullion Basin</b><br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/crystal_bb01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystal_bb01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning up slopes below Bullion Point." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/crystal_bb02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystal_bb02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata nears our first drop-in point with view of Crown Point in background." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/crystal_bb03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystal_bb03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric enjoys the light, dry powder on the descent into Union Creek." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/crystal_bb04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystal_bb04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata cruises through the fog on the descent back into Bullion Basin." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-5455042821305345976?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-1002854249565676603
2010-01-12T15:40:00.000-08:00
2010-01-20T20:35:35.885-08:00
Gray Falls (ice climbing) - Dec. 12
Being the non-ice climber that I am, I couldn't let the mid-December cold snap slip by without so much as a swing of an ice tool or two. Ok, all jokes aside, when the snow gets so bad for sliding then it must be great for climbing, right? With that in mind, I joined Tod and JB for a day out on ice of the vertical variety. Inspired by recent reports of a newly discovered 3-tier icefall tucked 5 or 6 miles up Ingall's Creek Valley, we decided to go have a look at the so called Gray Falls for ourselves. <br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/gray_falls01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gray_falls01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching the first tier ~WI2, with second tier visible behind." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/gray_falls02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gray_falls02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="JB solo's the second tier while Tod follows close behind." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/gray_falls03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gray_falls03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tod climbs a steeper portion of the second tier ~WI2 or 3?. Fat, plastic ice and facing the warming sun made for a very enjoyable day." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/gray_falls04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gray_falls04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="JB makes his way up the third and final tier only to get treed like cat and having to wait for Tod and me to...um...er...rescue him." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/gray_falls05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gray_falls05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tod at far left comes to JB's aid and together we finish the route ~WI3 or 3+ for a couple moves." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/gray_falls06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gray_falls06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking up the rambly upper portion of the falls after the third tier. We all solo'd this part then walked back down snow dusted slopes (lookers) right of the falls." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-1002854249565676603?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
sverdina
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-1132467349836853447
2010-01-23T00:44:00.000-08:00
2010-01-23T00:52:59.133-08:00
Dolomiti - Dec. 19 - Jan. 3
<a href="uploaded_images/cnz0910_07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cnz0910_07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Marmolada's Punta Rocca from below the true summit." /></a><br /><br />Between the 12 hours stranded in Frankfurt on the way in and the two days stranded on the way back, you'll forgive my unembellished recount of the Italy trip this time around. The stunning gross incompetence exhibited by the Frankfurt airport and Lufthansa airline staff to effectively manage the several hundred poor souls hopelessly stuck at the mercy of German <i>in</i>efficiency and <i>non</i>-hospitality is NOT something I'm liable to forget anytime soon. And why our board bag arrived three days late in Verona and seven days after we returned to Seattle still baffles me. I suppose we should be happy we got the bag back at all. In any case, I could easily dedicate this entire report to how awful the trip to and from Italy was this year, but I won't. Suffice to say that I'll never set foot in that godforsaken shithole of an airport again!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.sverdina.com/dolomites0910/dolomites0910.htm" target="new_window">more...</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-1132467349836853447?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-2920358199226636336
2010-02-06T22:03:00.000-08:00
2010-02-08T07:45:28.572-08:00
El Nino pow @ W/B - Jan. 16-17
Judging by the record crowds as of late and not to mention playing host to the 2010 Winter Olympics in a matter of days, one might laugh hysterically at the suggestion of that oh-so-popular ski resort north of Vancouver as having financial difficulties. Isn't it ironic then that Fortress Investment Group (owner of Intrawest) is looking to auction this particular asset to the highest bidder? This certainly explains the curtailing of staff and operations we've experienced the past couple of seasons. Apparently not even Whistler/Blackcomb is immune to the world of big finance.<br /><br />But while cash is tight these days, winter has at least shown some occasional generosity. Yes, the media sure likes to sensationalize the absence of snow on the North Shore Mountains (specifically Cypress which will host the Olympic half pipe event for starters), but the mountains along the Sea-to-Sky highway have fared relatively well this season. Latitude and certainly altitude makes a big difference in an off-season such as this. And so with that in mind, we hedged our bets on a rare bluebird blower day and ended up nicely in the black.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/wb0110_01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0110_01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A classic line - Agata drops in Coulior." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/wb0110_02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0110_02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Buttery toe-side slash on the apron below Coulior." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/wb0110_03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0110_03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Oh yeah! Another please!" /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/wb0110_04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0110_04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata havaing fun with the rime plastered rocks." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/wb0110_05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0110_05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata halfway down Excitation." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/wb0110_06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0110_06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="I like Whistler Coulior." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/wb0110_07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0110_07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Dropping in Excitation." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/wb0110_08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0110_08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="I also like Little Whistler." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/wb0110_09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0110_09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The next day brought stormy weather and another healthy dose of fresh and somewhat heavier snow. Agata enjoys the free refills on Blackcomb's Overbite." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-2920358199226636336?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-7706363869493315767
2010-03-07T14:29:00.000-08:00
2010-03-07T16:01:58.876-08:00
East Peak/Cement Basin & Table Mountain (Jan. 30 & Feb. 7)
Good days at the local resorts have certainly been few and far in between this season. Normally a quick and reliable staple for the Seattle-based chair lift crowd, Alpental has arguably yielded but a single "powder day" back on January 26 - hardly a justification for a season's pass mind you. But it's still winter and there's pow to be had somewhere, so off to earn our turns we go. Back to the familiar environs of Crystal's East Peak with three excellent laps into Cement Basin where low expectations were met with face shots and smiles all around. We found somewhat heavier powder on the slopes around Table Mountain the following weekend but with increasing clouds and fog later in the afternoon, we felt better about having abandoned our more ambitious plans for the day...more on that some other time.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/cement_table01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cement_table01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Slash in Cement Basin - not bad for low expectations!" /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/cement_table02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cement_table02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric skis down heavy pow at Ten Minute Trees." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/cement_table03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cement_table03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning up to our drop-in point on Table-Herman Saddle." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-7706363869493315767?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-3300325421352425908
2010-03-08T18:24:00.000-08:00
2010-03-08T21:04:23.060-08:00
Snowdays - Feb. 13, 14 & 18
<a href="uploaded_images/aga_harmony.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/aga_harmony_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Agata slashes the nose descending into Harmony Bowl.<br /><br />In the words of a friend and fellow heli-crack addict, "The smell of Jet-A combined with the sound of rotor blades cutting through the cold winter air on a bluebird morning after a week of snow is better than just about anything I can think of." - TW<br /><br /><a href="http://www.sverdina.com/whistler_heli/whistler_heli1.htm#whistlerheli2" target="new_window">more...</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-3300325421352425908?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-7121257220146133347
2010-03-11T17:02:00.000-08:00
2010-03-11T17:15:29.960-08:00
Paradise Glacier (MRNP) - Feb. 28
A casual day-trip up to Camp Muir with an enjoyable descent starting from Anvil Rock, and ending up finally at the big road bend in Paradise Valley. A worthy alternative to the Muir Snowfield descent and possibly also the Nisqually Chutes, especially if you're bored of either of those lines.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/PG01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/PG01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Muir Snowfield - Mount Rainier panorama." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/PG02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/PG02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View over Tatoosh Range with Mount Adams in distance." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/PG03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/PG03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Dropping in below Anvil Rock." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/PG04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/PG04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric skis wind-buffed snow high on Paradise Glacier." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/PG05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/PG05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A long, cruiser descent." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/PG06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/PG06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Nice turns on lower Paradise Glacier." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/PG07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/PG07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Following the exit skin track in the drainage below Paradise Glacier." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-7121257220146133347?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-8509549319860068403
2010-03-17T20:18:00.000-07:00
2010-03-23T17:49:29.564-07:00
Scaling a pale fish - White Salmon Glacier, Mar. 6
<a href="uploaded_images/WS_blog.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/WS_blog_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Northwest side of Mount Shuksan as seen from Mt. Baker ski area." /></a><br /><br />It was certainly a busy day on the northwest side of Shuksan Saturday March 6th. At last count, I noted a twosome gunning for the North Face, a solo hiker, a party of 4 who stopped just below the solo-called BYS Coulior access gully before turning back, a party of 5 (3 of which apparently skied the Hanging Glacier) half way up the White Salmon just as we were about to descend the clearcut, a party of 3 half way up the White Salmon as we approached the base of the glacier and finally a party of 2 that passed us on-route and continued on up Winnie's Slide and Hells Highway presumably to tag the summit. Oh, and just as we were about to descend, a party of 3 'boarders simply dragging their area boards by hand the entire way from the resort showed up as well...boy, we felt pretty lame after seeing that! So, let's see that's 2 + 1 + 4 + 5 + 3 + 2 + 3 = 20, not including Eric and me!<br /><br />Looking back, from the lodge patio at the end of the day while sipping a beer, I was amazed at how tracked-out the glacier was...holy hell, the place got shredded!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.sverdina.com/white_salmon/white_salmon1.htm" target="new_window">more...</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-8509549319860068403?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-3068814023979335667
2010-03-23T14:34:00.001-07:00
2010-03-30T19:21:09.295-07:00
Heliotrope Ridge (Mt. Baker) - Mar. 20
With a front parked offshore and due to push inland over the course of the day, the strong east wind we experienced up on Mount Baker should have come as no surprise. Blue morning skies rapidly gave way to high clouds and gusts that felt in excess of 60mph up on the Coleman Glacier. If that wasn't enough, technical difficulties with Agata's splitboard kept us confined to slopes in the vicinity of Grouse Creek where thankfully the pow was deep and refills free thanks to the wind. <br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/HR01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/HR01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning up towards a saddle high on Heliotrope Ridge." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/HR02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/HR02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down slopes we skied/boarded with Grouse Creek drainage below." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/HR03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/HR03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Saddle on edge of Coleman Glacier with Colfax and Lincoln in background (left to right)." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/HR04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/HR04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Myself, Jerry and his dog Cosmo fight the howling wind up to our drop-in point." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/HR05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/HR05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A stormy scene looking over at Baker, Colfax and Lincoln from crest of Heliotrope Ridge." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/HR06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/HR06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric skis off the ridge with Jerry visible below." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/HR07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/HR07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Finding good snow sheltered from the winds." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/HR08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/HR08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric skiing with sliver of Puget Sound in distance at right." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/HR09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/HR09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A nice pitch with good snow." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/HR10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/HR10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Yours truly schralping." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-3068814023979335667?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-3186954463636701798
2010-03-31T16:12:00.001-07:00
2010-04-13T15:12:04.427-07:00
The Swath - ski/split, Mar. 27
<a href="uploaded_images/swath_LG_Blog.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/swath_SM_Blog.JPG" border="0" alt="The Swath as seen from near the Mount Mastif Trailhead." /></a><br /><br />Preston first put the bug in my ear regarding The Swath about a month or so ago. According to him: <br /><br />"The Swath is probably one of the most distinctive avalanche paths and obvious ski runs around these parts. You can't miss it when driving west on Hwy. 2 from Leavenworth as it cuts an unmistakable scar from a point high on Chiwaukum Ridge, falling 4,000 feet to the valley floor."<br /><br />Funny really, since I had never heard of it before let alone taken note of the feature while driving by on Hwy 2. Surely I've glanced over in that direction once or twice over the years, and ironically probably even skinned right over the small summit en route to our first night's camp during the North Chiwaukum Tour Tod and I did back in December 2004.<br /><br />Similar to Preston's experience earlier this winter, "with this years lack of low elevation snow pack, <I>only</I> the top 2,700 feet were in." But with cold dry powder of variable depth for most of the descent, The Swath is one of the more memorable tours of the season for me. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.sverdina.com/the_swath/the_swath1.htm" target="new_window">more...</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-3186954463636701798?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-8869912532721687390
2010-04-19T14:02:00.000-07:00
2010-04-20T12:43:35.734-07:00
So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish (for now)
<a href="uploaded_images/summit_central01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/summit_central01.JPG" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />"Testing" my knee 1-week post injury at Snoqualmie Pass with Oz and Agata (behind the lens).<br /><br />The calendar may say spring, but for the first few weeks of April we finally enjoyed winter again. A couple strong storms blew through our region bringing unseasonably cool temperatures and generous amounts of mountain snow. This seemed to re-energize the local ski population, bringing out the masses (myself included) for what would surely be the last dose of lift-served powder.<br /><br />Meanwhile, as I recuperate from a partial MCL tear Google Blogger is threatening to discontinue their FTP service thereby crippling my ability to post updates to this blog. This may be my last post for a while, at least until I come up with an alternative.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-8869912532721687390?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-245562815993011754
2010-04-29T19:26:00.000-07:00
2010-04-29T19:33:06.287-07:00
Nisqually Chutes (MRNP) - Apr. 25
Sneaking-in one last post before Blogger cuts me off for good...<br /><br />Taking advantage of the nice weather and unexpected late April powder, the <em>Verdinas</em> trudged up the Muir Snowfield for a run down the Nisqually Chutes. That's 3-strikes for yours truly but only a first-time offence for my accomplice. Conditions in the main chute were a mix of sun-affected powder, some thinly covered avalanche debris and surfy creamed corn. Notable highlights include painful sunburns for the both of us, and being harassed by <em>Larry The Tool</em> for allegedly endangering people's lives by riding down all the way to the parking lot. Cooler heads must have prevailed for nothing came of the incident after Larry stormed off to report our heinous crime to the "authorities."<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First look of the objective from the skin up towards Panorama Point." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Camera contrast issues force me to experiment with some black-and-white action. I call this one the Chilkoot Trail." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata crests Panorama Point." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Please contact the authorities if you see this character in the mountains!" /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Up into the clouds - nearing the entrance to the chutes." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="After a nice long rest, it's time to ride down. The knee seems fine now. Thanks for asking!" /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata gets up-close and personal with the Nisqually Chutes while my camera performance sinks to new lows." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/NisquallyChutes08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A parting b&w shot of Agata and the final up-slope between us and the authorities." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-245562815993011754?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-lichtenberg
2010-05-18T16:52:00.000-07:00
2010-05-18T16:52:00.287-07:00
Lichtenberg Mountain - ski/split, May 1
<a href="uploaded_images/lburg_intro_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lburg_intro.JPG" border="0" alt="Lichtenberg Mountain as seen from nearby Stevens Pass ski area." /></a><br /><br />After rendezvousing with Eric in Marysville only to realize I’d forgotten my skins at home, plans for a tour somewhere off the recently opened highway 20 were nixed in favor of something a bit closer to home. Neither of us had visited the slopes off of Lichtenberg Mountain and with new snow accumulation at Stevens Pass that day, it seemed like a worthwhile venue all things considered.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/lburg01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lburg01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking up the south slopes near Nason Creek." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/lburg02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lburg02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning up into gladed slopes below the south facing headwall." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/lburg03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lburg03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Booting in deep wind-swept powder just below the summit ridge." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/lburg04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lburg04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Whiteout skiing at its finest!" /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/lburg05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lburg05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Still in the milk bowl." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/lburg06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lburg06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Lower down with improved visibility but increasingly sticky snow." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-lichtenberg?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-stevenspass
2010-05-19T12:38:00.000-07:00
2010-05-19T12:38:06.287-07:00
Stevens Pass (ski area) - May 3
While I’m not one to make a big to-do about touring around at a ski area which has been closed for the season, the conditions we experienced at Stevens back in early May warrant an exception. With about 20 inches of snow accumulation at pass level within little more than a 24-hour period and early daytime temps in the 20’s, it was yet another unexpectedly late hit of winter – one that we were quick to capitalize on. Unfortunately, so too were the throngs of snowmobilers who were busy shuttling their ski/snowboard buddies to and from. I must have inhaled the 2 and/or 4-stroke exhaust equivalent of hundred cigarettes that day. Air pollution aside, there was lines aplenty for us to enjoy before the sun came out and worked its magic. More shaded/sheltered aspects remained cold and dry well after we wore ourselves out and called it a day.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/stevens01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/stevens01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning out past the main resort lodge. Nice to have the place all to ourselves for once...well, sort of." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/stevens02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/stevens02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric drops in around the Orion Chutes area on our first run of the day." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/stevens03.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/stevens03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Dry pow and not a track in sight. I could get used to this." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/stevens04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/stevens04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skiing a bit farther down into Mill Valley." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/stevens05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/stevens05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning up to the top of Big Chief Mountain." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/stevens06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/stevens06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View over Hwy2 from top of Big Chief." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/stevens07.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/stevens07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Starting another run down into Mill Valley." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/stevens08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/stevens08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="And then the clouds blew back in brining yet more snow." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/stevens09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/stevens09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skiing the final pitch somewhere below Tye Bowl." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-stevenspass?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-bryant_chair
2010-05-21T21:39:00.000-07:00
2010-05-21T21:39:06.287-07:00
Snoqualmie Pass b/c - May 9 & 13
Described below are a couple rather civilized tours starting at mid-morning(ish) from the upper lot at Alpental. Eli joined me on the first of these <i>well rested</i> adventures, bagging a ski down both Chair Peak Basin and Bryant Coulior. I returned a few days later to take care of some unfinished business and once and for all complete the Chair Peak circumnavigation tour.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning along Alpental Valley with Chair Peak in distance." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking towards Bryant Peak. Note the twosome standing on the bench overlooking Bryant Coulior (hidden)." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eli skis down Chair Peak basin towards Source Lake." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skiing the upper portion of Bryant Coulior. At least the the avi debris was soft!"></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Runnels and ice at the couloir's choke point. Not difficult, but certainly could be better!" /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skiing a slushy shoulder before dropping into the final gully (skier's right)." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="And now for the solo circumnavigation tour. View of Bryant Coulior in its entirety from near the divide." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Snow Lake with Mount Roosevelt in distance and not a soul around." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View back towards Snow Lake from near Chair Peak Lake." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Chair Peak Lake and Melakwa Pass above it." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="After a quick run down to Melakwa Lake, I began booting steeply back up to Bryant Col. Here's a view towards Kaleetan Peak from somewhere on that exhausting slog." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/Bryant_ChairCirc12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking toward Chikamin Peak (center) from Bryant Col (4 hours to here from car). Just a final run down Bryant Couloir now remains." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-bryant_chair?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-may2010biking
2010-06-03T11:47:00.000-07:00
2010-06-03T11:47:06.287-07:00
Colonnade huckfest (and more) - May 2010
Looking out my window as I type these words, day has turned to night in advance of yet another deluge. This is the “winter” weather that had eluded us much of winter this year. Periods of dry weather have been few and far in between lately but occasionally suitable for a quick spin - be it on the asphalt around nearby islands, local (and not-so-local) singletrack or Colonnade when I’m jonesin’ for some park riding action.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/May2010Biking01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/May2010Biking01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Nice views along Bainbridge Island's Chilly Hilly Loop ride. View from Manzanita Bay towards Olympic Mountains." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/May2010Biking02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/May2010Biking02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking across BI's Murden Cove with Seattle skyline in distance." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/May2010Biking03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/May2010Biking03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hang time at Colonnade's drop zone." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/May2010Biking04.gif')"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/May2010Biking04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Dave rides the K-Line...actually a Dec '09 photo, but you get the idea."></a> <a href="uploaded_images/May2010Biking05.gif')"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/May2010Biking05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="More of Dave on K-Line." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/May2010Biking06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/May2010Biking06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Late afternoon at the 'nade." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/May2010Biking07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/May2010Biking07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric bikes past the interpretive sign on Winthrop's Buck Mountain Trail." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/May2010Biking08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/May2010Biking08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Cruiser trail through sagebrush with Methow Valley in distance." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/May2010Biking09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/May2010Biking09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Easy fire road climb and fast, swooping downhill makes for a great ride!" /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/May2010Biking10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/May2010Biking10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Stopping to take in the views along the Buck Mountain Loop Trail." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/May2010Biking11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/May2010Biking11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Sign along Sun Mountain trails network - it's not everyday that you see this!" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-may2010biking?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-shasta1
2010-06-29T16:19:00.000-07:00
2010-06-29T16:19:06.287-07:00
Mount Shasta - Avalanche Gulch, June 2010
<a href="uploaded_images/shasta_blog_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shasta_blog_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Shasta as seen from near the town of Weed, CA." /></a><br /><br />Tired of the recent weather and needing a change of scenery, I decided it was about time for a road trip down south where I was hopeful to find some sun and corn snow. First up on my volcano-bagging agenda was Mount Shasta and being that I was flying solo, just the standard Avalanche Gulch route would do.<br /><br /> <a href="http://www.sverdina.com/shasta/shasta1.htm" target="new_window">more...</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-shasta1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-lassen1
2010-06-30T14:31:00.000-07:00
2010-06-30T14:31:00.287-07:00
Lassen Peak - North Face, June 2010
<a href="uploaded_images/lassen_blog_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lassen_blog_SM.JPG" border="0" alt="North side of Lassen Peak as seen from the parking/picnic area near gated road end." /></a><br /><br />I climbed and rode down Lassen Peak’s North Face the day following the Shasta climb. The normal south-side approach was inaccessible still due to snow but a chance encounter with fellow splitboarders I recognized from SplitBoard.com, Jim and Storn, salvaged the Lassen trip for me. They had just spent the previous day schralping Lassen’s north-side slopes and gave me the scoop. Despite being all on my own and without a map or any navigational aids, the approach and climb was pretty straightforward. It certainly helped that I had both a skin track, and boot path to guide my way to the summit. 3.5 hours to summit and 30 minutes back down to the car. I was able to take advantage of continuous snow to within a 10 – 15 min walk of parking lot. Thanks guys! Their report and photos can be seen <a href=http://splitboard.com/talk/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=8963>here:</a> (scroll down to 10th post)<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/lassen01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lassen01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching Lassen Peak's north facing slopes." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/lassen02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lassen02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Strange phallus on Lassen's summit." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/lassen03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lassen03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View of Lassen's south slopes from summit. Note party of skiers near bottom left and plowing progress at center-right." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/lassen05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lassen05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="This be da way back down...woohaa!" /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/lassen06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lassen06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking back up at my tracks descending the North Face." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/lassen07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lassen07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="More tracks descending the lower slopes." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/lassen04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lassen04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama looking west to northwest from Sacramento Valley to Mount Shasta." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-lassen1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-mcloughlin1
2010-06-30T22:57:00.000-07:00
2010-06-30T22:57:00.287-07:00
Mount McLoughlin - Mt. McLoughlin Trail, June 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/mcloughlin_blog_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mcloughlin_blog_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount McLoughlin as seen near Medford, OR." /></a><br /><br />Oregon’s forgotten volcano they call it…and rightfully so I might add. For a ~9500ft mountain I was expecting something a bit more alpine, but with vegetation to within a few hundred feet of the summit I found the ascent to be total bore. Wet, unconsolidated, and at times knee deep snow also made for much more tedious going than seemed worth the effort. You know, I figured I was in the area so what the hell…might as well check it out. At least I had the good sense to leave the splitboard back in the car this time.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/mcloughlin01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mcloughlin01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Late afternoon at Fish Lake where I camped the night after driving back from Lassen Peak. Mount McLoughlin is very near to here, which is mostly why I decided to check it out the following day." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mcloughlin02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mcloughlin02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Sky Lakes Wilderness sign." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mcloughlin03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mcloughlin03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Final slope to McLoughlin's summit. Slog central!" /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/mcloughlin04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mcloughlin04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View from summit towards Klamath Lake." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mcloughlin05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mcloughlin05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama looking south with Mount Shasta in distance." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-mcloughlin1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-craterlake1
2010-07-01T17:34:00.000-07:00
2010-07-01T17:34:00.287-07:00
Crater Lake National Park, June 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div>Just passing through on my way back north and thought I’d post a few pics of what amounts to a colossal hole in the earth and which in my opinion is probably Oregon’s best national park. This is apparently what’s left behind after a 12,000ft volcano blasts almost 5000-ft off its top. Actually, now that I think about it it's probably more a matter of the top having slumped or collapsed into the crater. In any case, having visited Crater Lake now for a second time, I can tell you that it’s much more dramatic on a sunny day in the spring with a healthy blanket of snow draped over the surrounding peaks and crater rim.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/craterlake01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/craterlake01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A gorge on the drive up to the rim featuring conical vents left behind along the canyon walls after the softer rock around them eroded away." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/craterlake02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/craterlake02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The sublime deep blue of Crater Lake." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/craterlake03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/craterlake03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The obligatory Crater Lake panorama shot." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/craterlake04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/craterlake04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="It's not my car that drew me to this photo. Oh, and I think that's The Watchman in the background." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/craterlake05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/craterlake05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View from north end of Crater Rim towards Mount Thielsen and the Sisters off in the distance (at left)." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-craterlake1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-thielsen1
2010-07-07T15:06:00.000-07:00
2010-07-07T15:06:00.287-07:00
Mount Thielsen - West Ridge, June 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/thielsen_blog_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/thielsen_blog_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Thielsen as seen looking across Diamond Lake." /></a><br /><br />Immediately south of Crater Lake looms the striking and aesthetic Mount Thielsen. Similar to Oregon’s Three Fingered Jack and Mount Washington, Thielsen has been heavily eroded over time leaving behind a decaying plug in what was once the main vent of a much larger volcano. Nevertheless, the peak is such a dominant feature in this region of the Oregon Cascades I couldn’t pass up the opportunity for a closer look at the so-called “lightning rod of the Cascades.”<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/thielsen01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/thielsen01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A SAR effort was already underway when we arrived at the trailhead around 8 or 9 that morning. Farther up but still low on the West Ridge we witnessed the rescue of an injured climber who had spent an unplanned night out on the mountain." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/thielsen02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/thielsen02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric scrambles along a talus slope between the West and South Ridges." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/thielsen03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/thielsen03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Scrambling up towards the final summit tower." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/thielsen05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/thielsen05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Climbers descending the surprisingly solid 4th-class rock of the summit tower." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/thielsen06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/thielsen06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric just below the summit." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/thielsen07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/thielsen07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama looking west towards Diamond Lake and Mount Bailey." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/thielsen08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/thielsen08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama looking WNW towards Diamond Peak." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/thielsen09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/thielsen09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View south towards Crater Lake with Mount Scott at left and Mount McLoughlin on the horizon right of center. Mount Shasta is visible in the distance." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/thielsen10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/thielsen10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking back out along the Mt. Thielsen Trail." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-thielsen1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-southsister1
2010-07-28T12:37:00.000-07:00
2010-07-28T12:37:00.287-07:00
South Sister - South Side, June 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/southsister_blog_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister_blog_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="South Sister (at right) as seen from the Middle Sister." /></a><br /><br />In keeping with the volcano skiing theme, Eric and I set out to climb and ski/board down the South Sister. A goal of mine ever since first visiting the area on a failed attempt at the Sisters Marathon (on skis) back in June of 2008, I’ve been biding my time for just the right corn season. Thanks to the unseasonably cool and moist spring this year, all the necessary ingredients for a great ski descent finally came together in late June. With continuous snow for most of the ascent starting from the road and smooth corn on the ski back down (to within a 15 – 20 minute walk of the Devil’s Lake trailhead), I’d say our timing was spot on. <a href="http://www.nwhikers.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=7984324">Here's</a> another perspective on the conditions we experienced that day.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/southsister01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The view from camp along Cascade Lakes Highway on the penultimate S. Sister attempt. A day-and-a-half of rain, wind and snow and temps in the 30's sent me packing for friendlier conditions just east of here in Bend." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/southsister02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric skinning early on the approach to South Sister." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/southsister03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Finally gaining some elevation after a long slog across flat terrain." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/southsister04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching the final headwall with edge of crater off to the right." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/southsister05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Making the final tired steps up the headwall to the edge of the summit plateau." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/southsister06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Elation on the summit plateau with true summit in background." /></a><br /><a href="uploaded_images/southsister07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View north towards Middle and North Sisters (and more)." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/southsister08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Great view of Broken Top from South Sister summit." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/southsister09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric skis down the headwall." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/southsister10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Riding good snow below the crater rim." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/southsister11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric enjoys the endless turns below the crater rim." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/southsister12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Surf that creamy spring corn!" /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/southsister13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/southsister13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Last look back from the ski down to the car where cold PBR's await!" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-southsister1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-adams1
2010-07-29T14:45:00.000-07:00
2010-07-29T14:45:00.287-07:00
Mount Adams - Southwest Chutes, July 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/adams_blog_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams_blog_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Southwest Chutes of Mount Adams as seen from the basin below." /></a><br /><br />Eric and I set our sights on the Southwest Chutes of Mount Adams as our final volcano skiing objective of 2010. As has been suggested in previous reports, the long cool spring has preserved the snow this year making it so that descents such as the Southwest Chutes would come into good corn-snow skiing conditions starting in early July. As with many other of the Northwest volcano ski summits, timing is everything. Ideally one wants to be able to drive as close as possible to the trailhead but at the same time be skinning on snow shortly after leaving the car. This combination usually only lasts for about a week or two but seems to guarantee the best possible snow conditions for the ski down (no suncups or ice) while at the same time minimizing miles of hiking (or skinning) to reach the trailhead in the first place.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/adams01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Just out of the trees on the approach to the South Spur." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/adams02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning below the Lunch Counter with Mount Hood in distance." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/adams03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric approaches the South Spur proper." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/adams04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Gaining the final headwall below the South Summit." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/adams05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Beyond South Summit with the true summit now in view." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/adams06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View from summit cap down the upper-Klickitat Glacier with The Castle just right of center." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/adams07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric Skis off of Adams' summit." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/adams08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skiing a great pitch with perfect corn back down to South Summit." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/adams09.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Dropping in to SW Chutes." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/adams10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skiing the SW Chutes at about the half-way point." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/adams11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="At the exit to the SW Chutes. Phew...what an awesome ski! All told, the ascent involved about 6000-ft of gain with a round-trip time of about 9 hours." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/adams12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/adams12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="And now for the endless traverse back to the slopes below the Lunch Counter. Without so much as a breath or wind on the summit and fast, surfy corn from the summit all the way down the chutes, I would say that conditions were about as good as one could ask for!" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-adams1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-spontarete1
2010-08-03T15:06:00.000-07:00
2010-08-03T15:06:00.287-07:00
Spontaneity Arete - Le Petit Cheval, July 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/spontarete_blog_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/spontarete_blog_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Spontaneity Arete (at left) as seen from hwy 20." /></a><br /><br />As is tradition around these parts, the forecast for the July 4th long weekend called for clouds with a chance of showers. The obvious thing to do was to head east into 509 country where the odds of precipitation would be less. Jerry and Annette answered the call with an invitation to stay with them at their lovely little cabin in Mazama. While there, Agata and I preoccupied ourselves by doing a mix of mountain biking, cragging and alpine climbing. For me the highlight of the weekend was climbing Le Petit Cheval on Spontaneity Arete. I would characterize it as a ‘friendly’ route with relatively short-lived difficulties (the crux supposedly goes at 5.7). It makes for a short but fun climb ideal for marginal weather days. For approach beta and a route topo check out the <a href="http://www.ncmountainguides.com/routeinfo.asp">North Cascades Mountain Guides</a> homepage.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/mazama01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mazama01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Climbing at Sun Rock just a short walk from Fun Rock." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mazama02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mazama02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Climbing a new bolted route Jerry put up in the Chewuch Valley." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/spontarete01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/spontarete01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Following the trail as described in the approach notes we encountered two seprate sections with fixed ropes to be used as a handline. Here Agata starts up the second of the two handlines." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/spontarete02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/spontarete02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking down from about midway on the route." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/spontarete03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/spontarete03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking back from the next step in the arete." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/spontarete04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/spontarete04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Easy scrambling on the upper part of the route." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/spontarete05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/spontarete05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata on the summit with Washington Pass in background." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/spontarete06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/spontarete06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down Early Winters Valley with The Needles in background." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-spontarete1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-face1
2010-08-09T15:05:00.000-07:00
2010-08-09T15:05:00.287-07:00
Face Mountain (BC) - East Route, July 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/face_blog_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/face_blog_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="North Face of Face Mountain as seen from the Hurley River Road." /></a><br /><br />Not even an hour into the approach, and badly blistered feet (not mine) put the kibosh on our Mount Samson climb. While the North Face would definitely have to wait for another day, the alternative south-side route also seemed too remote and isolated for me to do as solo-overnighter. My comrades, whom I’d met only hours earlier returned to Squamish leaving me to salvage the weekend with a nearby scramble of some sort. Fortunately, just a couple miles back up the forest road at Railroad Pass is the popular Semaphore Lakes trailhead. A short hike leads to a very scenic basin below the Train Glacier with peaks of the Railroad Group towering above. From a camp in the still completely snowed-in basin my plan was to climb Face Mountain the following day and return to North Vancouver later that evening.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/face01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/face01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="This is what's left of the bridge over Donelly Creek. Sorry, there would be no ATV-assisted approach today." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/face02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/face02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking along the overgrown logging road en route to the trail below the glacier moraines. Thanks to already blistered feet, we would turn back a short while later." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/face03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/face03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View of Railroad Group (Face Mtn at right) from Semaphore Lakes Basin." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/face04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/face04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Waterfall below Train Glacier emerging from beneath the snow and disappearing back beneath the snow." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/face05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/face05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A stretch of easy hiking along Face's East Ridge." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/face06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/face06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The gully I ascended to gain the summit snow slopes. The correct/standard route apparently follows ledges just out of view to the left of the gully." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/face07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/face07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="South Face of Mount Samson as seen from Face's summit." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/face08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/face08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Close-up of Locomotive Mountain with Pemberton River Valley in distance." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/face09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/face09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down Hurley River Valley towards Goldbridge." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/face10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/face10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama looking SSE from Face's summit." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-face1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-sierra1
2010-09-09T16:52:00.000-07:00
2010-09-09T16:52:00.287-07:00
High Sierra Peakbagging, July 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="images/whitney1/whitney19.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/whitney_intro.JPG" border="0" alt="Eastern Sierra as seen looking across the Owens Valley." /></a><br><br>As if I hadn’t driven enough miles road tripping up and down the West Coast this summer, I decided this was the year for me to finally do some peak bagging in the High Sierra. Having ample free time on my hands, the desire to wander unencumbered by rigid itineraries and limited vacation days and to explore an entirely different mountain range served as the primary impetus of this trip.<br><br>Once again without a partner, the bounty of classic technical rock climbs the Sierras are famous for was not in the cards for me. Instead I focused my attention on a sampling of peaks that in my opinion give a good (bird’s eye) overview of the range.<br><br>As such, I selected four relatively popular peaks that seem to dominate their respective regions of the High Sierra. From north-to-south, the peaks I chose were Mount Lyell, Mount Ritter, Mount Sill and finally Mount Whitney. Lyell is famous for being the tallest peak in Yosemite National Park while nearby Ritter is arguably the most prominent peak in the range. Farther south in the Palisades, I originally planned on North Palisade but instead settled on the nearby and slightly lower Mount Sill for an outing suitable for a solo climb. Sill has the best summit view in the Sierra according to some, so I didn’t feel I was really sacrificing much. Whitney, as everyone knows is the tallest peak in the lower 48, and as such must be included by default.<br><br>If I were to do this trip again and/or had more time I’d consider tacking on a couple additional peaks. One in the far north of the range, just outside Yosemite – Matterhorn Peak perhaps? The view of <a href="uploaded_images/matterhorn01.JPG">Sawtooth Ridge and vicinity</a> (which Matterhorn is part of - at far left) certainly gets one’s attention when viewed from hwy 395 north of Lee Vining. Also, having largely ignored the <a href="uploaded_images/evo01.JPG">Evolution Range</a> (and another <a href="uploaded_images/evo02.JPG">here</a>) en route to the Palisades I think a climb of Mount Darwin would fill the void between Mammoth Lakes and Big Pine quite nicely.<br><br>Anyway, here are the reports in chronological order:<br><br><a href="lyell/lyell1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('lyell/lyell1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Mount Lyell via the Lyell Glacier</a><br><a href="ritter/ritter1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('ritter/ritter1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Mount Ritter via the SE Glacier</a><br><a href="sill/sill1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('sill/sill1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Mount Sill via the North Coulior/Northwest Face</a><br><a href="whitney/whitney1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('whitney/whitney1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Mount Whitney via the Mountaineer's Route</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-sierra1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-mastiff1
2010-11-07T16:59:00.000-07:00
2010-11-07T16:59:00.287-07:00
Mount Mastiff, July 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div>I went on this hike ostensibly to reconnoiter the area for some future backcountry skiing trip, but managed to complicate matters by fooling myself into thinking it’d make for an enjoyable bike’n hike outing as well. A lazy mid-morning Seattle departure combined with a long overdue revelation at the Nason Ridge Trailhead forced me to reconsider my plans for tagging Mount Howard from Lake Wenatchee that day. Backtracking along hwy 2 for several miles, I turned up a bouncy forest road and parked my car, this time at the Merritt Lake Trailhead. After yet another false start with the bike-the trail is far too steep and rough for bikes-Oz and I finally began hiking up. While unsure where exactly I was leading us to at the time, I’m certain we finally ended up on top of Mount Mastiff. It is a boring, mostly dog-friendly hike with only a short bit of scrambling along a sharp crest. If you’re comfortable with clutching a terrified 17lb Russell Terrier in one arm while grabbing for loose holds on a somewhat exposed ridge traverse with the other, be sure not to overlook this...um...<i>gem</i> of a hike!<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/mastiff01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mastiff01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First glimpse of Mount Mastiff after gaining the crest of Nason Ridge." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mastiff02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mastiff02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Ozzie enjoys the scenery from atop Mastiff." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mastiff03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mastiff03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View east from Mastiff (note the plume of smoke in the distance)." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/mastiff04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mastiff04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View south towards Chiwaukum Ridge. The Swath which Eric and I skied last winter starts from the point in foreground at far left." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mastiff05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mastiff05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Another forest fire plume this time to the north." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mastiff07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mastiff07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama looking up Little Wenatchee River Valley." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/mastiff06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mastiff06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama with Lake Wenatchee in midground center." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-mastiff1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-winchester1
2010-11-09T14:05:00.000-07:00
2010-11-09T14:05:00.287-07:00
Winchester Mountain, August 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div>I’m not exactly sure why John and I chose to attempt American Border Peak (ABP) for a second time, but rest assured there will NOT be a third try. Perhaps I’ve gone soft in my old age, but the tedious off-trail side hilling and thrashing just to get to a suitable camp spot hardly seems worth the reportedly loose and mediocre climbing on ABP in the first place. If our lack of motivation wasn’t enough to turn us back, then the rapidly deteriorating weather the day of our summit bid certainly was. Just one look across the third and final talus basin separating us from the start of the objective’s SE Route, not to mention the eerie reddish murk that filled the morning skies, and I decided then and there that ABP was not for me. Judging by the look on John’s face, I think he too was relieved by my decision. We returned to camp, packed up and made our way back to High Pass. Just before the final descent to the car, we dropped our packs and made a quick detour up the trail to investigate the restored lookout on top of Winchester Mountain, because well…it was there and we had nothing better to do. We got back to John's truck just as the first drops of rain began falling.<br><br>If you must climb something in the Twin Lakes area, I might suggest just scrambling up <a href="http://sverdina.com/2009_12_01_archive.asp#2415836097769162359" TARGET="New_Window">Mount Larrabee</a> instead. A good trail pretty much leads directly to the base of the standard climbing route, and I doubt the views are much different than from ABP considering that the two peaks are adjacent to each other. Larrabee is likely to test your appetite for choss as it is so leave it at that and take solace in the fact that ABP is a seldom climbed <I>pile</I> for good reason.<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/winchester01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winchester01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Both of the Twin Lakes from near where we parked." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/winchester02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winchester02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="We found a good camp spot and already existing firepit in the second basin." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/winchester03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winchester03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The sun sets behind the lower flanks of Tomyhoi Peak." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/winchester04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winchester04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="ABP as seen from the notch between the second and third basins." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/winchester05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winchester05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tedious sidehilling over brush-covered talus. Fun!" /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/winchester06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winchester06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="John nears the top of Winchester." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/winchester07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winchester07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The Winchester Mountain lookout." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/winchester08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winchester08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Winchester summit panorama looking towards ABP." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/winchester09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winchester09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View of Twin Lakes and vicinity from Winchester." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-winchester1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-mazamarocks1
2010-11-11T17:07:00.000-07:00
2010-11-11T17:07:00.287-07:00
Mazama Rocks, August 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div>Agata and I made our way over to Mazama for the third time this season specifically to be present for the official unveiling of Jerry’s A-Wall. Jerry’s tireless dedication to developing sport climbs on crags in or near the Methow Valley is truly remarkable and seems to have the blessing of long-time Methow routesetter Brian Burdo. The A-Wall crag features five or six fun and safe single pitch routes ranging from 5.7 to 5.10d (I think). To reach the crag, simply follow the (now) signed trail beyond Fun Rock towards Sun Rock. Go left at the fork and proceed up along a newer path for about fifteen minutes to reach a grove of trees at the base of a large crag. Starting at (looker’s) right where the path first reaches the rock are three easier routes that make for a good warm-up for the two more difficult climbs just off to the left. At far left is a final route in the 5.8 range. If you find yourself climbing in the Mazama area and are tired of waiting to get on a route at Fun Rock, be sure to check out the A-Wall!<br /><br /><a href="uploaded_images/mazama_awall01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mazama_awall01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Adam pulls over the small roof on one of the routes on the right-side of the crag." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mazama_awall02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mazama_awall02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Classic ass shot of yours truly near the top of the same route. This one goes at 5.8 I think." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mazama_awall03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mazama_awall03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata rests momentarily on one of the two routes in the middle of the crag." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mazama_awall04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mazama_awall04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Near the top of the route - 5.9 or 5.10a I think." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mazama_awall05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mazama_awall05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Me demonstrating the importance of hydration with a nice view of the Methow Valley in background (and Ozzie in foreground)." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mazama_awall06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mazama_awall06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Back at Fun Rock - Greta contemplates her next move over the bulge (~5.10d)." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mazama_awall07.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mazama_awall07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Animated GIF of Greta climbing the route in previous photo." /></a><br><a href="uploaded_images/mazama_awall08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mazama_awall08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Jerry climbs a tough route at the Rhino Zone (between .11 or .12 I think) with Christian, Annette and Greta at bottom (left-to-right)." /></a> <a href="uploaded_images/mazama_awall09.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/mazama_awall09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Animated GIF of Jerry climbing the route in the previous photo." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-mazamarocks1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-grand_teton1
2010-11-28T14:37:00.000-07:00
2010-11-28T14:37:06.287-07:00
Grand Teton - Upper Exum Ridge, August 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/grand_teton_intro_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/grand_teton_blog.JPG" border="0" alt="The Teton Range with Grand Teton at center as seen from hwy 191 north of Jackson." /></a><br /><br />Having contracted a bad case of <i>road-tripperitis</i> this summer, I settled on an alternate course of therapy and decided to let it run its course rather than attempt to fight it. With that in mind, I loaded-up the Passat for the umpteenth time since early June and motored across four western states for a much anticipated and long-awaited for climb of the Grand Teton. I partnered-up with Kyle Walcott on Mountain Project for the Upper Exum Ridge climb-my first time linking up with someone sight unseen for a technical climb.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.sverdina.com/grand_teton/grand_teton1.htm" target="new_window">more...</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-grand_teton1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-borah1
2011-01-16T13:42:00.000-07:00
2011-01-16T13:42:06.287-07:00
Borah Peak - Southwest Ridge, August 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/borah_intro.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/borah_intro_blog.JPG" border="0" alt="View of Lost River Range with Borah Peak (left-of-center). Southwest Ridge visible on right skyline." /></a><br /><br />Borah Peak is the 12,662-ft potentate of the Lost River Range and the highest mountain in Idaho. The standard Southwest Ridge route is a third class scramble in late summer, ascending 5,262 vertical feet from the trailhead to the summit in just over 3.5 miles. Alternately referred to as "Chicken-Out Ridge", this is generally considered to be the primary route used to ascend the peak. Although short, the approach involves considerable elevation gain, making for a continuously steep hike in order to reach the start the route's namesake feature.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.sverdina.com/borah/borah1.htm" target="new_window">more...</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-borah1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-shuswap1
2011-01-22T20:04:00.000-07:00
2011-01-22T20:04:06.287-07:00
Shuswap Lakes, August 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div>Just some highlights of a relaxing five days out on the Shuswap... Worth noting were the unusually large numbers of running salmon visible in the creeks and streams, floating in the lake or rotting away along the shore. A classic example of Mother Nature’s excesses and to which the local bear population was helpless to resist partaking in. In hindsight, it probably would have been best to heed the temporary <i>No Mooring</i> signs posted on that beach adjacent to the salmon spawning stream, eh? But anyway, I could really get used to this life of leisure and a HUGE thanks to everyone that made the experience possible once again!<br /><br />
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata and Bart float in Seymour Arm on the first day of our boating trip." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Typical evening scene in the Shuswap." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Spawning salmon in Albas Provincial Park." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata and Bart stand near one of the many waterfalls in Albas Prov. Park." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Two tiered waterfall in Albas Prov. Park." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="T-shirt in Seymour Arm store." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fun with glow sticks." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="We rented a jetski and did some wakeboarding in Anstey Arm." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The sun sets on another perfect day in the Shuswap." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Bart tries his hand at fishing." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Angry clouds roll in over a bay at the end of Seymour Arm." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Floaties and beer in the middle of the lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shuswap13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shuswap13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Bart and yours truly explore the Seadoo's maximum speed." /></a>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-shuswap1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-bankslake1
2011-02-08T22:46:00.000-07:00
2011-02-08T22:46:06.287-07:00
Banks Lake rock, September 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div>Made a couple trips out to the Banks Lake/Grand Coulee Dam area to soak-in some end-of-summer rays and explore the scenery and nearby rock climbing. If the setting alone, not to mention the limitless climbing potential here isn’t enough to invigorate your soul, then might I suggest a visit to your psychiatrist? Granted, the drive out here is a fair bit longer than your tried-and-true Leavenworth weekend getaway. But if are looking to escape the autumnal Seattle rains for the weekend and have tired of the <i>same old same old</i>, you could do worse than spend some time climbing granite in this unlikely desert oasis.<br /><br />
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama overlooking Steamboat Rock State Park as a dust storm begins to blow through." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Luke does his best Statue of Christ The Redeemer impression on the top of Steamboat Rock." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View north from Steamboat Rock" /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Taking in the western view from Steamboat Rock." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First lead up Renaldo." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Not your typical belay stance - Highway Rock." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Climbing a Banks Lake classic - Bono." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Cliping a bolt on The Edge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata top-ropes Name Unknown." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Down time at Banks Lake basecamp." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Over to Northrup Canyon and finding surprisingly steep climbing on Earnest Stemmingway." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fun climbing on The Pit and the Pendulum." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Climbing out of the gap on I'm Down." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata at the top anchors of I'm Down." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Short but fun climbing on Toltec Tower." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata makes short work of Maya." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/bankslake17.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/bankslake17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="An amazing sunset looking west near George WA." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-sawtooths1
2011-03-18T18:34:00.000-07:00
2011-03-18T18:34:06.287-07:00
Sawtooth Scrambles, Sept/Oct 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/sawtooth_intro_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/sawtooth_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The Sawtooth Range as seen near Stanley, ID." /></a><br /><br />I needed to make one last road trip before the Summer Of Sergio © officially came to an end. After said escapade I would be forced to seriously confront other priorities that I blissfully managed to ignore for several months.
<br><br>
I’ve dreamed of visiting the Sawtooths ever since my college days in Eastern Washington. Although I managed a few ski trips to nearby Sun Valley during that time, I never actually set foot in the <a href="uploaded_images/sawtooth_intro03.JPG">Sawtooth National Recreation Area</a> proper. Having sighted the <a href="uploaded_images/sawtooth_intro01.JPG">northern front</a> of the range with my own eyes while on my way back from Wyoming this summer, I was inspired to return for a closer look.
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Everyone knows of the classic routes on Warbonnet Peak and <a href="uploaded_images/sawtooth_intro02.JPG">Mount Heyburn</a> seems an irresistible temptation as seen from Redfish Lake, but either of those two technical climbs would have to wait for another time. Being that I was hoping to capitalize on an unexpected window of fair autumn weather with scarcely a day’s notice meant that this was to be yet another solo-affair.
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With that said, I regrettably left my dear wife at home to another 10 hour day at work as I headed for the distant hills of central Idaho. On the agenda were a couple pleasant scrambles that offer a good introduction to what the Sawtooths are all about – <a href="http://www.sverdina.com/regan/regan1.htm" target="new_window">Mount Regan</a> & <a href="http://www.sverdina.com/thompson/thompson1.htm" target="new_window">Thompson Peak</a>.
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.post-miller_peak1
2011-04-03T17:24:00.000-07:00
2011-04-03T17:34:06.287-07:00
Miller Peak MTB, Oct 2010
<div style="clear:both;"></div>Arguably one of the state’s best rides, the Miller Peak loop offers miles and miles of cruiser singletrack with fantastic views. There’s some debate about which direction is best. Clockwise entails a fair amount of walking/pushing, but guarantees a longer downhill. Going counter-clockwise is easier to pedal up, but offers a shorter albeit more technical downhill. We chose to go clockwise for no particular reason other than to get the climbing over with sooner. The high point of the ride is a long traverse across the South Face of Miller Peak, with views that go on forever including Mount Rainier and the East Face of Stuart. We opted to take the short side trip to tag the top of Miller Peak before starting the descent. Regardless which way you go, this ride is definitely on par with the other classic rides in WA.<br /><br />
<a href="uploaded_images/miller_peak01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/miller_peak01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Old School Bombers!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/miller_peak02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/miller_peak02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="About to gain the ridge after a long bout of walking and pushing." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/miller_peak03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/miller_peak03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Saddle with Miller Peak summit beyond." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/miller_peak04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/miller_peak04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Miller Peak panorama." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/miller_peak05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/miller_peak05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Riding down from the summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/miller_peak06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/miller_peak06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Closeup of Eric descending the summit ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/miller_peak07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/miller_peak07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Up and over a notch towards the South Face." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/miller_peak08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/miller_peak08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Taking in the views on this fine October day." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/miller_peak09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/miller_peak09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Traversing the South Face." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/miller_peak10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/miller_peak10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="More bike pushing up to a high point on Teanaway Ridge." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/miller_peak11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/miller_peak11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="What we came for...the downhill!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/miller_peak12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/miller_peak12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Signs lead the way home - Iron Bear Trail." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.workingstiff1
2011-05-17T22:34:00.000-07:00
2011-05-17T22:34:06.287-07:00
Working Stiff Pow, Winter 2010/2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div>Missed mid-week powder days and battling weekend crowds for chair zero, <i>slope management</i> and the art of staying one run ahead of the tourists, farming pow stashes and ditching uninvited tagalongs en route to those lesser-known gems tucked away in the <i>slackcountry</i>. This is how we ROLL! And when it all becomes too much to bear, one decides now is the time to sell a kidney and <a href="whistler_heli/whistler_heli1.htm#powmtnheli1" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('whistler_heli/whistler_heli1.htm#powmtnheli1','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">take to the skies</a>. Yes, the pre-paids have long since been exhausted by now, but with Agata’s target of 40 days in the bag, anything more is just extra credit. Not bad, not bad at all if I do say so myself...<br /><br />
<a href="uploaded_images/workingstiff01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/workingstiff01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Always an impressive view of The Dawg looking south from Morning Glory Bowl." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/workingstiff02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/workingstiff02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Poaching a clandestine line down to hwy 410." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/workingstiff03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/workingstiff03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The walk of shame back to Crystal Mtn. Blvd." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/workingstiff06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/workingstiff06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Second view of the day down Fears Gulch with our first tracks below." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/workingstiff04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/workingstiff04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A flotilla of container ships as seen from Cypress Mountain." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/workingstiff05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/workingstiff05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Flirting with disaster at the top of Cypress. There's some decent b/c skiing down the other side of the ridge from here." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/workingstiff07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/workingstiff07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A tantalizing view of The King with untracked powder." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/workingstiff08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/workingstiff08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First time as #2 down the King and looking up at Agata finishing strong for 4th place." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.cowqually1
2011-05-27T19:10:00.000-07:00
2011-05-27T19:10:06.287-07:00
"Cow-Qually" to bridge (ski/board), May 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div>My first tour since New Years Eve 2010, a return visit to The Mountain has been LONG overdue. This time, I elected to take Eli up on his offer to show me an alternate descent variation from Camp Muir. Starting at around 10,700ft this ski takes an aesthetic line down a steep chute onto the Cowlitz Glacier before rendezvousing with the snowfield again near Anvil Rock. We then traversed over towards the Nisqually Chutes and skied that all the way down to the bridge over Nisqually Creek. All told, this ~7000-ft descent makes for a casual but enjoyable outing that has few equals on the “lower” mountain. Furthermore, the unusually thick low-elevation snowpack and persistent cool spring weather this year means that skiing out to the bridge will likely continue to be an option for a while longer!<br /><br />
<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Following the cattle trail above Panorama Point." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking across the upper Cowlitz from Camp Muir as a lenticular cloud builds." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Climbers traversing the Cowlitz Glacier." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Down the chute!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eli making jump turns on steeper snow near the top." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Exiting the chute." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eli skies down onto the Cowlitz Glacier." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Lovely spring chowder on the Cowlitz." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skiing in a large glacial amphitheater." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skiing by seracs on the Cowlitz." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eli takes the direct Nisqually Chutes entrance." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Down the Nisqually Chutes." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Sun, cloud and sticky snow towards the bottom of the chutes." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The finale down to the bridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cowqually15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cowqually15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Near the end - thanks for a great day!" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-cowqually1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.freund1
2011-06-14T19:01:00.000-07:00
2011-06-14T19:01:06.287-07:00
Freund Canyon MTB, May 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div>Another miserable Seattle weekend…another escapade east-of-the-crest in search of dry singletrack. I guess I shouldn’t bitch considering an unseasonably late dump that graced the only operating ski resort in WA the morning of 5/28; but I digress. Credit goes to Eric for suggesting this ride and salvaging Memorial Day. Being short on sleep and motivation, I didn’t make it out of town until noon – yes a wee bit late for a Leavenworth ride, but days are long this time of year.<br><br>The ~9 mile Freund Canyon loop is a Leavenworth classic that also happens to be the site of the Bavarian Bike & Brew Festival held every June. A relatively easy ascent on a dirt road and singletrack leads to a well manicured downhill trail that is an absolute blast to ride. To quote the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance: “…the downhill is a fast, brakeless, water bar (read: jump!) & berm-laden joyride.“ True, true!! We’d have cheated ourselves leaving it at just one lap and so put the cameras away and went up for seconds. A requisite stop at Gustav’s for eats and a pitcher of Bitburger made for a fitting finale to this final day in May.<br /><br />
<a href="uploaded_images/freund01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/freund01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Ridge top trail on the ascent." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/freund02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/freund02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A hazy view to the northeast." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/freund03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/freund03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric cruising in to the bend." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/freund04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/freund04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Just one of many bermed bends in the trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/freund05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/freund05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Coming in hot towards the stream crossing." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/freund06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/freund06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Last bit of singletrack in the lowlands." /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-freund1?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.gib_chute1
2011-06-20T22:48:00.000-07:00
2011-06-20T22:48:06.287-07:00
Mount Rainier - Gibraltar Chute (ski/board), June 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute_intro_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Rainier with the descent to and down Gibraltar Chute marked in red." /></a><br /><br />
Steve and I skinned up to Muir Friday evening and secured the last two remaining spots in the hut. Up at O-dark-thirty and departing Muir at a rather tardy 4 am with a third (Mike) we picked up the previous night. The Ingraham Direct was reportedly already out of shape, but the Disappointment Cleaver had only just been put in. Sure it’s the “dog route” but experiencing it in relatively un-crowded and pristine early-season conditions gave the ascent an aesthetic quality that I wasn’t expecting.
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It was steady but slow going thanks to some slippin’ and slidin' on the icy skin track followed by technical issues with crampons and topped with a bout of cramps and bonking. A 20 min rest atop the cleaver and we were all well again and ready to continue. From here the DC route now makes a LONG and tedious end-run out onto the Emmons, then some switchbacks before cutting back onto the Ingraham-Nisqually.
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We finally reached the crater rim around 11:30 where we encountered some wind (is it ever not windy at 14,409ft?) Steve and I proceeded across the crater to tag the summit. Back at the rim, we acquainted another party of two (Jeff & ?) who had climbed the Fuhrer Finger in a one-day push but decided not to ski the Finger on account of unexpectedly steep snow and/or firm conditions. They would join us down the Gibraltar Chute instead.
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We began our descent from the crater rim around 12:30. Down the Ingraham-Nisqually, negotiating crevasses and bridges as necessary. Some survival skiing was endured up top with firm snow and intermittent pockets of pow. Snow conditions began changing to creamed corn below the last band of crevasses making for a nice long <i>shredable</i> pitch down to the saddle atop the chute.
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A party of three ski-mountaineers who climbed up the Gib Ledges to the saddle earlier that day had already put tracks down the chute, and so we were spared the guesswork of how to negotiate the crevasses towards the bottom of the apron. Dropping first down the blind roll into the gut of the chute, I rode down through the hourglass and onto the apron below. Endless turns, epic corn and a dramatic setting with huge ice cliffs and seracs looming overhead! Words do not do this line justice.
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Jeff and I were first across a large snow bridge towards the bottom to reach the relative security of the glacier flats. Stopping for a moment to look back up at the other three skiing the chute, we decided to high-tail it out of there seeing as this was no place to linger with so much ice perched overhead. We then skied smooth lower angled corn down the Nisqually Glacier to finally reach the edge of the Muir Snowfield. The conga line up to Camp Muir was in full swing by that point ~1:00pm.
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Everyone got down safely and Steve, Mike and I parted ways with the duo we had met at the summit. The three of us then made the short skin back up to Muir to grab our gear before descending to Paradise. I can't recall the last time I enjoyed such nice, smooth corn on the Snowfield and savored the fast cruiser turns down to Panorama Point, whereupon the snow got a little sticky for the remaining ski down to the lower lot.
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Arguably a better ski descent than the Fuhrer Finger, I’m surprised this line doesn’t get more attention considering the relatively easy access starting from Camp Muir.
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<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Morning alpenglow at Ingraham Flats." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A camp robber (fox?) returning after poaching a free meal." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Climbing the Disappointment Cleaver." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down the cleaver." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Steve pauses for a sip of water on the Ingraham Glacier." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="High on the Ingraham Glacier with Little Tahoma behind." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking across the crater." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Rainier summit panorama." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The author partway down the Ingraham-Nisqually Glacier." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View from Gibraltar Saddle up to the Ingraham-Nisqually Glacier pitch we skied." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Dropping in Gibraltar Chute." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Jeff Skis Gibraltar Chute." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down Gib Chute." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Three stragglers make their way down the chute." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="All survive the descent and join us on the Muir Snowfield." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gib_chute16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gib_chute16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Closeup of Gibraltar Chute!" /></a>
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sverdina
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noreply@blogger.com
tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.littleT2
2011-06-24T19:33:00.000-07:00
2011-06-24T19:33:06.287-07:00
Little Tahoma - Frying Pan Glacier, June 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/littleT_intro_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Little Tahoma as seen from a highpoint overlooking the Ingraham Glacier." /></a><br /><br />
I’ve had unfinished business with Little Tahoma for quite some time now. Every May through June since my previous attempt back in June 2008, Little T’ has manifested in my consciousness as THE thing to do. So it finally came to pass this spring that I would heed the call and revisit Mt. Rainier National Park’s east-side, making the long trudge along Frying Pan Creek late on a Saturday afternoon to a comfortable camp in Summer Land. Well, to be honest it wasn’t so much a trudge considering that John and I were able to skin directly from the parking area. In any case, it’s been said many times before but this year’s heavy snowpack is nothing short of amazing!
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Booting up firm snow the following morning, I resumed skinning once atop Meany Crest rapidly closing in on a party of 5 who had camped near us that night. Now six-strong, we started up a boot track leading away from the 9000-ft col between the Frying Pan and Whitman Glaciers. The softening snow forced us all back on skis in no time, with me reverting again to knee deep postholing shortly thereafter. I didn’t think it was possible to skin up the steep south-facing slope below the summit crags, but was soon proven otherwise. If nothing else, I made faster progress than my two-planking counterparts albeit with much more energy expenditure I'd venture to guess. A long last, a short but enjoyably airy scramble led to the best vantage point from which to view the mighty Tahoma - Little T’s tippy top!
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Clouds moved in well in advance of the next forecasted frontal system and made for a rather murky ride back down the peak’s South Slope to the 9k saddle. Similar to our previous attempt, John and I found ourselves below the cloud deck at this point and proceeded to make endless turns in hero corn down the Frying Pan Glacier. I set off a rather large sluff slide on a steep pitch below Meany Crest which John somehow got caught up in but nevertheless managed to escape without injury. If nothing else, seeing all the snow I had just set free catapult over a cliff just skier’s right of where John got taken down gave me an appreciation for not following so closely behind another skier/boarder. Ya hear me John?
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We packed-up camp and made our way back to the parking area in record time thanks in large part to being able to ride out most of the way. Yes, using poles and skill in the art of one-footing greatly helps in “descents” such as these. Seeing as it only took us 3 hours from our initial drop-in point high on Little T’ to the car, I take pity on those that climb the peak entirely on foot. I was certainly happy to have made it back when we did, for the first drops of rain had already begun falling as we were changing at the car. It was absolutely pouring by the time we reached hwy410 and well, I think the higher elevations must have picked-up yet more snow!
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<a href="uploaded_images/littleT01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A glimpse of the objective from the ranger station." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/littleT02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Getting close to camp at Summer Land." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/littleT03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Chef Verdina at your service!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/littleT04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Starting out from camp." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/littleT05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching Meany Crest." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/littleT06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On the Frying Pan Glacier with 9k saddle beyond." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/littleT07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On the way across the Whitman Glacier." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/littleT08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Up a short chute atop the large South Slope." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/littleT09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Final snow slope below summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/littleT10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit scramble." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/littleT11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Whoa! The Dawg looms large." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/littleT12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down from our drop-in point." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/littleT13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="John rides in fog." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/littleT14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Milked-out on Little Tahoma once again!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/littleT15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Riding the Frying Pan as clouds encroach from the west." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/littleT16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/littleT16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Laying it out on a windlip in the basin above Summer Land." /></a>
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sverdina
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.despair1
2011-07-20T16:04:00.000-07:00
2011-07-20T16:04:06.287-07:00
Mount Despair - East Ridge, July 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/despair_intro_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Despair (left of center) as seen from the summit of Mount Fury. The East Ridge is on the left skyline." /></a><br /><br />
Paul and I enjoyed Independence Day triumph on Mount Despair, albeit not without a good dose of suffering I might add! To say it’s an out-of-the-way peak would be an understatement. But being that Despair was Fred Beckey’s initial first ascent kinda makes it an essential feather in the hat of any self-prescribed Cascade peak bagger. So here’s to you ‘ol Fred!
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With a 5am Seattle departure we found ourselves sputtering on fumes by the time we reached Triumph Pass Saturday July 2nd and collapsed into the tent for the night. Rain all day Sunday made for a most boring 30+ hours of "sleep" and managing seeps and leaks in my tent. The rain ended around 4pm but alas it was too late to make an afternoon run for Despair. Fate had set us up for a BIG day on Monday!
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It cleared up nicely that evening and night and we awoke Monday morning to a totally cloudless sky. We summited via the East Ridge about 4 hours after leaving camp. Worries about steep snow, difficult rock climbing and a lack of protection proved to be for naught. By and large, we managed to avoid the steep snow on the SE Face climbing reasonably solid yet somewhat vegetated class 3 and 4 rock on the ridge. The view from Despair's seldom visited summit is grand but my oh my, we had a long way to go still that day...
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The HOT 2000-ft slog back up and out of Triumph Creek to Thornton Ridge later that afternoon could best be described as cruel and unusual punishment. All told it was about a 14 hour day Monday. It's been a long time since I last "enjoyed" a North Cascades ass-kicking like this and it took me a good couple days recover from it. This is an amazing part of the North Cascades and the East Ridge climb is worthy in its own right, but suffice to say that this isn't a peak or approach for that matter that I'm inclined to repeat anytime soon.
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<a href="uploaded_images/despair01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Taking a break above Thornton Lakes." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/despair02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama taken from near Thornton Peak with Snowfield Group at left. I want to do a winter ski tour out onto the Ladder Creek Glacier visible behind Paul." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/despair03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Steep snow traverse to reach Thornton Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/despair04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Overlooking Triumph Creek Valley with Triumph Pass and Mount Despair visible beyond." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/despair05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Booting up Triumph Creek Valley towards Triumph Pass." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/despair06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Despair as seen from Triumph Pass." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/despair07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The rain finally relented the afternoon of the following day at Triumph Pass." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/despair08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching Despair the morning of day 3." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/despair09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Morning light and shadows en route to Despair." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/despair10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Snow slopes below SE Face." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/despair11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Paul finds safe passage in moats along the East Ridge." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/despair12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Paul ascends one of a coulpe intermittent patches of snow on the ridge climb." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/despair13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On top of a gendarme high on the East Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/despair14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The final class-4 dihedral guarding Despair's summit (photo taken on return)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/despair15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Amazing near-360 degree summit panorama from Slesse at extreme left to Mount Baker at right." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/despair16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Close-up panorama panning from Snowfield Group at left to Eldorado at right." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/despair17.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/despair17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down SE Face towards Mount Triumph." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.robinson1
2011-08-15T13:30:00.000-07:00
2011-08-15T13:30:06.287-07:00
Mount Robinson - Southeast Ridge, July 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div>We ended up on this, the lesser of two objectives having been deterred by slow and tedious travel on a progressively disappearing trail. Despite the limited challenge this peak presents, Robinson is a high and locally significant mountain the Southwest Ridge of which bearing “classic scramble” status according to Beckey. I found the summit views of the North Cascades to be exceptional which is surprising considering the peak’s very eastern position. This is a popular peak with good trail access and a relatively short approach, making it a good candidate for a Pasayten Wilderness day trip.<br /><br />
<a href="uploaded_images/robinson01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/robinson01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Biking the Methow Valley Trail before blowdown and brush became unbearable forcing us to abandon our original plan." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/robinson02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/robinson02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Crossing a new bridge over Robinson Creek." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/robinson03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/robinson03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking up into Beauty Creek drainage." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/robinson04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/robinson04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking up towards the head of Beauty Creek the next morning." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/robinson05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/robinson05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A bit of pleasant meadow hiking between annoying brushy sections." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/robinson06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/robinson06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The basin I ascended to reach the SE Ridge (normal route goes up a basin before this one)." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/robinson07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/robinson07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View of SE Ridge and summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/robinson08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/robinson08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking down SE Ridge with Methow Valley in distance." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/robinson10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/robinson10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama - from Gardner Group to Big & West Craggy peaks." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/robinson09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/robinson09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama - from Silverstar to Mount Baker." /></a>
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sverdina
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.2011RoadTrip1
2011-09-23T12:11:00.000-07:00
2011-09-23T12:12:06.287-07:00
Hunting State Highpoints, July/August 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div>Recalling the good ‘ol days of road trips past, I set forth to explore the Beartooth and Wind River mountain ranges. Specifically, I took a week off to bag the Montana and Wyoming state highpoints – Granite Peak and Gannett Peak. Each being well over 12,000ft in elevation, these oft-visited summits offer sweeping vistas over some of the more scenic mountainous areas of the lower 48 states.
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After about 14 or so hours of driving, I left the interstate at Columbus, MT proceeding along county and gravel roads to finally reach the Mystic Lake Trailhead. Hiking in to a comfortable camp just below the infamous Froze to Death Plateau that afternoon, I braced myself for a night of wind and rain (the first of many on this trip), feeling none too optimistic about the prospects for the next day. Alas, I worried for naught as summit day dawned clear and windless. I tagged Granite’s granitic top without incident and hobbled back into camp just as the next thunderstorm reached critical mass and unleashed a midsummer day’s worth of accumulated moisture.
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Back on the interstate around noon the following day, I was disappointed to learn that my partner for the following Gannett climb wouldn’t be able to join me thanks to an emergency back home. After a bit of hemming and hawing, I decided to stick to the plan and go it alone. Arriving in Pinedale late the morning of August 2nd, I checked in at the local outdoor shop for some last minute supplies and a conditions update before I was off kicking dirt once again.
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Reaching high camp in upper Titcomb Basin after a day-and-a-half of easy hiking, I could at last revel in the mosquito-free sunshine with only a passing hailstorm to briefly interrupt the peace. Summit day once again dawned calm and clear making for an enjoyable and worry-free jaunt to the top of Wyoming and back to camp. What should have been a pleasant final evening in the Winds, however turned into a terrifying night of hurricane-force winds, torrential rains, thunder and lightning flashes lasting 10 seconds or longer! I cannot recall the last time I shivered with fear quite like I did during those tense early morning hours, but rest assured there’s nothing like a ‘little’ inclement weather to put the fear of God in you!
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Needing to calm the nerves after that, I detoured through Hells Canyon and the Wallowa Mountains of northeastern Oregon for some mindless sightseeing on my way back to Seattle. All-in-all, it was a satisfyingly successfull trip despite the almost nightly rain not to mention the stress of being party to what sincely felt like the coming of the end of the World!
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Click either of the following links for more detailed reports on the Granite and Gannett climbs:
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<a href="graniteMT/graniteMT1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('graniteMT/graniteMT1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Granite Peak – South face (via East Ridge)</a>
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<a href="gannett/gannett1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('gannett/gannett1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Gannett Peak – Gooseneck Ridge (standard)</a>
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Below are just some miscellaneous photos from various points along the way to and from Wyoming:
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<a href="uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Classic view of The Grand from near Victor, ID." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Car camping along Wyoming's Hoback River." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="An august evening at Hells Canyon Reservoir." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Overlooking Hells Canyon near the Hells Canyon Dam." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Oregon high-country above Hells Canyon." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Wallowa panorama from near Joseph, OR." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Beautiful Wallowa Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View from the escarpment overlooking Pendleton, OR (from I-84)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2011RoadTrip09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Overlooking Ellensburg with Mount Stuart in distance from I-82." /></a>
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sverdina
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.chaval1
2011-10-07T16:45:00.000-07:00
2011-10-07T16:45:06.287-07:00
Mount Chaval - West Face, August 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/chaval_intro_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Chaval (midground left) as seen from the summit of Snowking Mountain." /></a><br /><br />
Increasingly on the lookout for unexplored (by me) day hikes/scrambles with reasonably good access, my ears perked up when Paul Klenke pointed out Mount Chaval while driving hwy 530 north of Darrington earlier this summer. “You can day-climb that” he said, referring to an unmistakable pinnacle of rock rising up above the timbered foreground ridges just east of the Sauk River Valley. Up ‘till then I gave Chaval little more than a passing nod en route to bigger objectives in the North Cascades and beyond. The time had finally come to stop ignoring this enigmatic alpine culmination of the group of peaks south of the Illabot Creek Drainage.
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With the car parked just past the bridge over Illabot Creek, Tom Sjolseth (who’s words I have blatantly plagiarized in this post) and I dove into thick brush just on the opposite (climber's right) side of the creek. It wasn’t long before we reached open timber with understory and steep duff. We climbed straight up to ~3600' before making an oblique traverse to 4100', crossing some minor, brushy gullies (Devil's Club, Vine Maple). From here, we ascended straight up again to about 4600', where we intersected a large ramp that took us up to the col above Jug Lake. Some steep-ish traversing on a combination of brush, slabs and snow took us to the south of Pt 6356. From here, it's easy snow slopes and class 3 rock and heather to the summit which we reached about 5.5 hours after leaving the car. We spent ~40 minutes on the summit enjoying the views, before heading back down the way we came.
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On the way back, we followed timber instead of the brush near the road (a route is flagged here), and that put us about 1/4 mile down the road from the bridge, but saved us 300 vertical feet of schwacking. All things considered, with the excellent shape the Illabot Creek Road is in and how direct our cross-country route turned out to be, I’d give this pleasant day trip two thumbs up!
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<a href="uploaded_images/chaval01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A serene setting at the col above Jug Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chaval02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking up above Jug Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chaval03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On the traverse looking down on Jug Lake." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/chaval04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Traversing snow slopes towards Pt. 6356." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chaval05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Snowy saddle below the West Face." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chaval06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Heather and slabs low on the west face (photo taken on return)." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/chaval07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tom ascends the obvious ramp on the West Face." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chaval08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Inukshuk atop the West Face ramp." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chaval09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Scrambling near the summit." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/chaval10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Almost 360-degree summit panorama." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chaval11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama overlooking Middle Chaval." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/chaval12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chaval12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The long slog back." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.jburg1
2011-10-21T13:50:00.000-07:00
2011-10-21T13:50:06.287-07:00
Johannesburg Mountain - NE Buttress, August 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/jburg_intro.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/jburg_blog.JPG" border="0" alt="Johannesburg Mountain as seen from the Eldorado Creek Trail." /></a><br /><br />
(Introduction by Tom Sjolseth - his report <a href="http://www.nwhikers.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=7993481" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW2" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('http://www.nwhikers.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=7993481','NEW_WINDOW2','scrollbars=yes')">here</a>)<br /><br />Johannesburg Mountain. Its N Face is one of the most striking facades in the North Cascades. A twenty-minute hike gets you to its base, but from there, the summit is a world away. In the 4600' of relief from the Cascade Pass parking area to the summit, this mountain has a bit of everything alpine - dramatic waterfalls, vertical brush, towering walls of rock, and eroding glaciers crumbling and falling to the valley below. Along with the sights, the sounds of Johannesburg are equally impressive. Rarely does a day go by where one cannot hear the mountain rumbling.
<br><br>The last time I climbed Johannesburg, I told myself that I wouldn't be back for a while.. that there were other, new places for me to go visit and enjoy. But for someone who lives and breathes the challenge of the North Cascades, I silently waited for another opportunity to arise to climb this iconic symbol of our great range. When Wayne told me he was interested in climbing it after four prior, failed attempts, my ears perked up. I knew that Sergio was also interested, so I asked him to come along. Eliciting an emphatic "sure" from Sergio, we were now a team of three.<br><br>
<a href="johannesburg/johannesburg1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('johannesburg/johannesburg1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">more...</a>.
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.vayu1
2011-10-25T21:57:00.000-07:00
2011-10-25T21:57:06.287-07:00
Mount Vayu (BC) - Northwest Ridge, August 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/vayu_blog_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu_blog_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Vayu as seen from below the Pancake Glacier with NW Ridge at right." /></a><br /><br />
(Report by Tony Tsuboi - his full report <a href="http://cascadeclimbers.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1032735" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW2" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('http://cascadeclimbers.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1032735','NEW_WINDOW2','scrollbars=yes')">here</a>)
<br><br>
Mount Vayu is a prominent 9100’ peak located 40 miles north of Pemberton BC. Its position, deep in the Coast Mountains, offers a fun ridge climb with spectacular views all around. The rock climbing itself is mostly exposed scrambling with a few Class 5 moves and a short rappel off a gendarme to maintain the ridge. The crux is the approach, a cross country bushwhack with few signs of foot traffic. The TR’s we did find mentioned ample flagging, but aside from the first and only sighting, we didn’t come across any more. We took the high route in and the low route out.
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The drive is long, 2.5 hours from Pemberton on mostly decent dirt road – washboard with pot holes, but none too bad. Driving directions can be found in the McLane Guide, Alpine Select. While it mentions that a high clearance 4WD vehicle is required, a 2WD beater car would do. The final spur off Jamie Creek Road is overgrown with alder in places. You won’t want to take a shiny new car up that. We parked about 2 miles short of the described start and hiked in from there. On the way, we crossed two bridges and a lot of bear scat. There is a third bridge, but the route forks up to the right just before it. You can continue straight into clear cut where the road will peter out and follow the north bank of the river (i.e. the low route.) However, we saw a shag of flagging above us that directed us up the high route. We followed that up, trending leftwards, and leveled out on a side hilling traverse at roughly 5700’. That wasn’t particularly pleasant, and we were likely higher than we needed to be. Eventually we sighted the ridgeline and Peak 7651 that we would skirt around to get to the outlet creek that drains the Pancake Glacier.
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We rounded an obvious ridge and dropped into the outlet creek drainage. At that point we could see a steep wall of talus off to the left that would lead up to the Pancake Glacier. We crossed the creek and picked our way thru dense brush to a flat area that opened up. While it was obvious this was camp, and a goddamn fine one at that, heather was abundant with few if any signs of foot trampling. Aside from a pair of heli ski markers, this place was near virgin. Car to camp took us five hours. We settled in for dinner, a few medicinal drinks and an incredible show of alpenglow to stars.
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We woke leisurely after sunrise and got a start up the talus about 8:00. The Pancake Glacier is appropriately named and fills the entire upper basin. The NW Ridge extends around to the right with a prominent gendarme at its lowest point before rising back up. McLane indicates the route begins to the left of that gendarme, but we picked our way up a lower angle line to the right of it. Getting around that gendarme was a little loose and dicey in places, but the remainder of the NW ridge is mostly sound granite. To me, it had similar flavor to the East Ridge Direct of Forbidden, but not nearly as technical. I think there was one move that would rate 5.4, the rest was mostly Class 3-4 but exposed. We summited at noon and took a long break to soak in the panoramic views of ice fields and dramatic peaks all around us. The descent along the East Ridge was easy and non-eventful. We dropped back onto the Pancake Glacier and made it back to camp in little over an hour.
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Our exit route started the same, but this time we didn’t hesitate to drop elevation in order to skirt obstacles. That said, we still had our share of slide alder and heinous brush to deal with. At times, that ranged up to BW4, but we were rewarded with lower angle terrain and a few open meadows that were bursting with wildflowers. In hindsight, we should have come this way. We made it back to the car by 6:00, about 5 hours from the time we left the summit. Three hours later we were dining on bitchin burgers at the Pony in Pemberton. That place kicks ass!
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This one's not for everyone, but I’d give it a thumbs up.
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<a href="uploaded_images/vayu01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View up Jamie Creek Valley from early on the approach." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/vayu02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Pocket meadow camp." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/vayu03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking slabs en route to Pancake Glacier." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/vayu04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Pancake Glacier with Vayu beyond." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/vayu05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View over Pancake Glacier from NW Ridge saddle." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/vayu06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tony approaches NW Ridge saddle." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/vayu07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="NW Ridge lies ahead." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/vayu08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Climbing low on NW Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/vayu09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fun scrambling leads back the ridge crest." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/vayu10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Pulling the crux move on NW Ridge route." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/vayu11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Blocky terrain high on the route." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/vayu12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Final summit scramble." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/vayu13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama from Sloan to Samson." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/vayu14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama from Samson to Thiassi to a smoldering volcanic peak in the Bridge River Cones area...and so VERY much more, including maybe, just maybe the mighty Waddington itself!" /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/vayu15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking down the easy East Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/vayu16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Descending to Pancake Glacier from East Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/vayu17.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/vayu17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking out via the Jamie Creek low route." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.buck1
2011-11-04T15:36:00.000-07:00
2011-11-04T15:36:06.287-07:00
Buck Mountain - West Route, August 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/buck_blog_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/buck_blog_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Buck Mountain as seen from camp in the basin below High Pass." /></a><br /><br />
At 8528 feet Buck Mountain is one of the taller, and as you will see from my rather lousy IPOD photos also one of the more massive non-volcanic peaks in Washington State. Being the second-highest point on Chiwawa Ridge after 8,760-ft Fortress Mountain, Buck offers unobstructed 360-degree views as well as, and perhaps more importantly, a unique perspective on some of The Cascades’ finest alpine high country. The allure of experiencing first hand Buck’s veritable Zen garden of manicured alpine meadows, meandering streams and granite pools is primarily what drew me to explore this area. Tagging the summit was just the proverbial icing on the cake for me.
<br><br>
The West Shoulder Route (from Trinity) which I followed is complex and is probably best described in <a href="http://www.summitpost.org/west-shoulder-from-trinity/157882" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW2" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('http://www.summitpost.org/west-shoulder-from-trinity/157882','NEW_WINDOW2','scrollbars=yes')">Paul Klenke’s summitpost report</a>. I will only add a few observations of my own – first, I found it best to leave the Buck Creek Trail <i>after</i> the clearing indicated in Paul’s report, at a point shortly after where the trail re-enters forest and makes a rightward bend coming nearer to Buck Creek than at any other time on the approach. There’s evidence of a path cutting off to into brush at left here but which unfortunately also vanishes well before the creek crossing. Nevertheless, it should only take a few minutes to reach the creek where a couple large logs can be used to cross over from the sandy bank to the other side.
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Once across, the idea is to turn left and proceed on a rising traverse making sure not to gain too much elevation too quickly. Occasional hints of a trail reassured me that I was headed in the right direction (upon return in my case). Be sure to cross at least one, if not two prominent gullies before turning up sharply towards the crest of the timbered East Ridge of Mount Cleator. If you go up too soon you’ll end up in cliffy terrain interspersed with steep, slippery duff that’ll make you wish you had your ice axe in hand! As a general rule, it seems best to gain the ridge at around 5,000 ft or lower.
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I never noticed the so-called <i>campsite at 5,800 ft on the ridge</i> (I did see a blue tarp upon my return though), at which point one should angle down to the left (south) into the basin. I suspect that I was too far right (north) and thus missed the obvious trail heading left. Instead, I proceeded upwards to about 6,500 ft before realizing I’d gone too far. I chose not to go back down thinking I could still get to where I needed to be. Frustratingly, I was forced ever higher up the ridge by steep, blocking cliffs. Finally at roughly 7,000 ft I located a short, sketchy gully that allowed me to descend into the heather basin just below High Pass where I set up camp for the night.
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I found the rest of the route to Buck’s serene meadows, High Sierra-like west basin and beyond to the summit to be relatively straight forward. The ledge with snag low on Berge’s East Ridge is a unique and hard-to-miss feature, without which the approach to the Berge-Buck basin would likely be somewhat more involved and certainly brushier. Finally, there seems to be ongoing debate as to which of the two main summits is taller-the North or Middle? The consensus I think is that the 8,528+ ft Middle Summit is it. I went for the 8,528-ft North Summit as it seemed to be the more aesthetic of the two. If it really matters, climb both and tag The Horn overlooking the immense East Ridge while you’re at it!
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<a href="uploaded_images/buck01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/buck01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The all-important snag at the toe of Berge's East Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/buck02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/buck02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Serene alpine meadow at the saddle between Buck and Berge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/buck03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/buck03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Sierra-like scenery in the basin below Buck's West Slope." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/buck04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/buck04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View from West Slope of Buck." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/buck05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/buck05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Upper basin on Buck with North Summit at left and Middle Summit at right." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/buck06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/buck06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A sharpening ridge crest on the North Summit." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/buck07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/buck07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking down on King Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/buck08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/buck08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama from NE to SE." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/buck09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/buck09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama looking towards Glacier Peak." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.ppbs1
2011-11-13T13:59:00.000-07:00
2011-11-13T13:59:06.287-07:00
Paisano Pinnacle & Burgundy Spire - West Ridge to North Face, September 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/ppbs_blog_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs_blog_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Silverstar Massif with Burgundy Spire at left as seen from the North Cascades Highway. Route overlay in red." /></a><br /><br />
(Based on Tom's NWHikers report <a href="http://www.nwhikers.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=7994436&start=0&postdays=0&postorder=asc&highlight=paisano" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW2" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('http://www.nwhikers.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=7994436&start=0&postdays=0&postorder=asc&highlight=paisano','NEW_WINDOW2','scrollbars=yes')">here</a>)
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Of the peaks included in the late Dallas Kloke’s The Difficult Ten (a list comprised of the so-called 10 most difficult major peaks in Washington State to climb by their easiest route), Burgundy Spire is really an outlier of the Silver Star massif situated among the Wine Spires, just S of Burgundy Col. This peak is an anomaly on the list in that it is the only peak with a crag-like approach and it’s also the only peak that requires 5.8 rock climbing to reach its summit. Nevertheless, Burgundy Spire is an important peak, and its inclusion in the Difficult 10 is probably justified. We wanted to add on Paisano Pinnacle to our agenda - supposedly the best long, moderate, alpine rock route at Washington Pass. It wound up being a full, but stellar day of climbing for Tom, Daniel, and I.
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<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Starting up the first pitch." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The second pitch leading to the ridge crest." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Daniel enjoying the fun (but short) twin cracks on pitch 5." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Nearing the top of the 6th pitch on Paisano." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Stellar climbing high on Paisano's West Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Working through a boulder problem on the West Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tom climbs a steep crack near the top of Paisano Pinnacle." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking down Paisano's final technical pitch." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking down the N Face of Burgundy Spire, about two pitches below the summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Steep and enjoyable climbing on Burgundy's North Face." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The giant chockstone tunnel on the traverse." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The 6th pitch of the N Face of Burgundy Spire. This was the 10th pitch of climbing on the day for us between Paisano and Burgundy." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Daniel starts up the penultimate pitch on Burgundy." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fun with the tricky off-width just below the summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama looking west." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The view towards Chianti Spire and Silver Moon from the summit of Burgundy Spire." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ppbs17.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ppbs17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The first of 5 rappells off of Burgundy Spire." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.dtail1
2011-12-03T16:48:00.000-07:00
2011-12-03T16:48:06.287-07:00
Dragontail Peak - Serpentine Arete, September 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/dtail_blog_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail_blog_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Dragontail Peak as seen from the north end of Colchuk Lake." /></a><br /><br />
Tod and I teamed-up to take care of some unfinished business and what for me would be the end-of-season finale. Dragontail Peak is a relatively large mountain (by Cascades standards) with good year-round access, better weather and boasting a variety of quality snow, ice and rock routes. As an alpine rock climb, it is the ideal venue for a 1 – 2 day outing particularly when wet weather threatens the west slopes.
<br><br>
Of the two more popular rock climbs on the North Face of Dragontail Peak, Serpentine Arête is a well-documented and well-traveled route with the harder climbing bookended by longer scrambling sections. The two ~5.8 crux pitches come roughly in the middle of the climb and feature a little bit of everything from crack, dihedral and face climbing. There’s a pitch or two of 5.6 – 5.7 climbing before the cruxes that felt a tad more difficult that I was expecting. We also encountered a few tricky moves in a flaring crack directly up from the belay immediately following the cruxes. Finally, we chose to finish the climb with the optional ~5.7 pitch, which to me surprise-surprise once again felt considerably more difficult than 5.7.
<br><br>
In the end, Tod got the opportunity to hone his guiding skills while I assumed the role of <i>tourist</i>. With a bivy down in the morane the night before the climb, it wound-up being an enjoyably casual outing that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to anyone in search of moderate climbing with short-lived difficulties.
<br><br>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="From the top of the lateral moraine, the start of the route into the depression between Serpentine & Backbone ridges goes along the ledges seen here behind Tod." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tod starts up the first 5.6 pitch on the ramp before the pillar." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Working the 5.7 crux of the second pitch." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking up the ~5.8 crack on the first crux pitch." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Enjoyable climbing on the second crux pitch (my favorite of the entire route)." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking back over Colchuk Glacier towards Colchuk Peak." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Climbing some low-5th steps above the crux pitches." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The sun finally graces Colchuk Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Scrambling terrain on the upper part of the route." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking north from high on the route towards Glacier Peak." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Final bit of scrambling near the end of the route." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The optional 5.7 pitch just as the first drops of rain begin to fall." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama with rain clouds looming to the west." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Descending the Snow Creek Glacier on the back side of Dragontail." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking back from near Aasgard Pass with Witches Tower at left." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dtail16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dtail16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Posing for a shot with Colchuk Lake below." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.olyoutings1
2011-12-16T14:41:00.000-07:00
2011-12-16T14:41:06.287-07:00
Olympic Outings - Various, July/Sept/Oct 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
When not out gallivanting in the mountains, many a summer weekend this year was spent relaxing at Michelle’s lovely cabin on Mats Mats Bay near Port Ludlow. With a strategic </>base camp</i> such as this on The Peninsula, Agata and I seized the opportunity to explore some of the more scenic coastal areas of Puget Sound and the northern Olympic Coast. After all, summer in the Northwest isn’t truly complete without the heart-stopping slap of 50-degree saltwater across the face, sun-baked seaweed caught between the toes or the sounds of the Pacific crashing against a wild and desolate coastline.
<br><br>
<B>Mats-Mats Bay and vicinity:</B>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/matsmats01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/matsmats01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Puget Sound from a beach south of the mouth of Mats Mats Bay." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/matsmats02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/matsmats02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The local wildlife kept a watchful eye on us." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/matsmats03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/matsmats03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Paddling into Mats Mats." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/matsmats04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/matsmats04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Setting sun through clouds over the bay." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/matsmats05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/matsmats05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Lumber Mill near Port Townsend as seen from Fort Flagler." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/matsmats06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/matsmats06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="End of the road at Marrowstone Island's Mystery Bay." /></a>
<br><br><br>
<B>Shi Shi Beach:</B>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/shishi01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shishi01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Lush forest on the way to Shi Shi Beach." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shishi02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shishi02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First Glimpse of Shi Shi from the trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shishi03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shishi03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A perfect summer day on the Olympic Coast." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/shishi04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shishi04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The only thing missing is a nice cutback on the left-peeling lip." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shishi05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shishi05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Point of Arches at the south end of the beach." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/shishi07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/shishi07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Final look back at WA's finest(?) beach." /></a>
<br><br><br>
<B>Dungeness Spit:</B>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/dungespit01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dungespit01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Stormy conditions out near the SW end of Dungeness Spit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dungespit02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dungespit02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Still waters within the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dungespit03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dungespit03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching the Dungeness Lighthouse." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/dungespit04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dungespit04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Landfall at the end of the spit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dungespit05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dungespit05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Crystal Clear water in Dungeness Bay." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dungespit06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dungespit06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View to NE from Dungeness Lighthouse." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/dungespit07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dungespit07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama of Dungeness Bay and Olympic Mountains beyond." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dungespit08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dungespit08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A herd of seals escorted us back to the refuge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dungespit09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dungespit09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Surrounded by low flying gulls." /></a>
<br><br><br>
<B>Ozette Triangle:</B>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking along the North Sand Point Trail on a chilly October morning." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View north from the beach at Sand Point." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Weaving through gaps in seaside cliffs." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Passage made possible thanks to low tide." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking towards northern half of the beach hike." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Cannon hole near Wedding Rocks." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="We looked for the infamous petroglyphs but this is all we could find." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="There was a lot of deadfall like this which we had to climb over." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="4-cylinder engine block rusting away on the beach." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking south from near Cape Alava." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="This one made me think of the Jagermeister deer logo." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Beautiful forest on hike out via Cape Alava Trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ozette13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ozette13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Lake Ozette panorama." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.xanadu1
2012-01-13T12:17:00.000-07:00
2012-01-13T12:17:06.287-07:00
Xanadu MTB, October 2011
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
At risk of posting a mostly irrelevant blog update, considering the change of season since the Xanadu ride, I present to you a few snaps from a late October day on the singletrack out near Peshastin, WA. On Eric’s suggestion, we made our way east for what would be a shakeout ride for me and my new (but used) Remedy 8. Although rain showers caught up with us as we began the descent on our second lap, the vibrant autumn colors and classic eastside ridge-run made for a fine day of mountain biking. Like some of the other mtb-specific trails in the area, this one is steep, fast and well maintained with banked turns, numerous jumps and a couple mandatory drops that’ll likely leave a stain or two in the shorts.<br><br>
<a href="uploaded_images/xanadu01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/xanadu01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View from the ride up to the drop-in point with Stuart Range in distance." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/xanadu02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/xanadu02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Beginning the descent." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/xanadu03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/xanadu03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric rides through the old burn." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/xanadu04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/xanadu04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Classic ridge-top trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/xanadu05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/xanadu05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A steep slab section towards the middle of the ride." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.dolomiti1112
2012-02-04T12:42:00.000-07:00
2012-02-04T12:42:06.287-07:00
Dolomites, Winter 2011/2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="javascript:uploaded_images/dolomiti1112_intro.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dolomiti1112_intro.JPG" border="0" alt="Overlooking Passo San Pelegrino from somewhere below Col Margherita." /></a><br /><br />
Off to Italy again for our biennial holiday in the Dolomites. Thankfully no travel drama this time although high winds in Amsterdam did cause delays and threatened to make us miss the AMS – SEA connection on our return. Fortunately it wasn’t anything a panicked sprint through the terminal couldn’t fix and best of all, our bags made it as well!
<br><br>
As in years past, Agata and I again had to content ourselves with 10 days riding groomers comprised almost entirely of man-made snow. Suffice to say that we’ve had our fill of icy slopes and are looking forward to some deep days in 2012. Not that I’m complaining or anything-10 consecutive days out on the slopes regardless of who or what created it certainly beats most alternatives. And like it or not, the fact that the operator managed to get virtually all of the ~750 miles of runs skiable before Christmas, despite mother nature’s lack of cooperation is nothing short of astounding.
<br><br>
<a href="dolomites1112/dolomites1112.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('dolomites1112/dolomites1112.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">more...</a>.
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.chuckanut
2012-02-24T12:09:00.000-07:00
2012-02-24T12:09:06.287-07:00
Chuckanut MTB, February 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
Another mid-winter drought, another excuse at least to sleep in. The Seattle “Snowmageddon” is now but a distant memory…dear Ullr please make it snow again! Mountain biking isn’t the first thing that comes to mind for winter recreation in the Pacific Northwest, but at least we’re able to adapt. Of the rides Eric and I have been on recently, this loop in the Chuckanuts is easily the most scenic. There’s nothing too terribly hairy here. Galbraith, Duthie or Tokul for that matter this is not, just a casual yet fast cross-country ride with exceptional views. Ok we’ve done our penance, now please cue Winter Part 2.
<br><br>
<a href="uploaded_images/chuckanut.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chuckanut_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="An ominous sunset on the eve of the Seattle Snowmageddon." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chuckanut01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chuckanut01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Muddy trail down low in Larrabee State Park." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chuckanut02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chuckanut02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On the ascent past Lost Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chuckanut03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chuckanut03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A fun singletrack descent on the flanks of Chuckanut Mountain." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chuckanut04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chuckanut04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Incredible views over Bellingham Bay towards the San Juan Islands." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/chuckanut05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chuckanut05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking across Puget Sound with Olympic Mountains in distance." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chuckanut06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chuckanut06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Baker looms nearby." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/chuckanut07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chuckanut07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Riding the aesthetic Chuckanut Ridge Trail." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/chuckanut08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/chuckanut08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A faulty air spring doesn't help with the final steep descent!" /></a>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-chuckanut?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
sverdina
http://www.blogger.com/profile/07261875680011293009
noreply@blogger.com
tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.odetolanina
2012-04-10T18:00:00.000-07:00
2012-05-07T23:41:06.287-07:00
Ode To La Niña, "T2T" 11/24/11-05/05/12
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
She started out strong with early Thanksgiving pow at WB,
<br>
leaving little time for breaking-in those rusty legs and achy knees.
<br><br>
Spent Christmas in <a href="2012_02_01_archive.asp#dolomiti1112" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('2012_02_01_archive.asp#dolomiti1112','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Italy</a> with the folks,
<br>
enjoying bluebird days but also mighty firm slopes.
<br><br>
Now desperate for some freshie stoke,
<br>
we returned to find melting snow and hopes up in smoke.
<br><br>
Finally a few deep Friday’s at Alpy starting in February,
<br>
followed by Saturday’s at Crystal and days that are now no longer dull and ordinary.
<br><br>
Spent a couple Sundays rediscovering Summit East,
<br>
with short lift lines and easy pickins’ for the powder chasing beast.
<br><br>
Back to Blackcomb in early March with a foot of new overnight,
<br>
made for this Shredder’s sheer delight!
<br><br>
Finished the weekend with a fine Cypress session,
<br>
fresh lines off Sky Chair deserving special mention.
<br><br>
Had an epic day with <a href="ncheli/ncheli1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('ncheli/ncheli1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">NC Heli</a> on March twenty two,
<br>
with bottomless blower and lines too good to be true.
<br><br>
Loup Loup was closed that next day,
<br>
so off to Wenatchee were we had a night’s stay.
<br><br>
Then to Mission Ridge the following morning,
<br>
finding the goods at Bomber Cliffs and Microwave to be far from boring!!
<br><br>
Ahh...spring is upon us yes I know,
<br>
but I’m just waiting for the next storm to blow!!
<br><br>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Season opener at Whistler with Blackomb's 7th Heaven area visible in background." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="May I suggest the beef stew and a pitcher of brew at Whistler's The Dubh Linn Gate?" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Rainier - big and BAD as usual as seen from top of Silver King." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A day too early for Loup-Loup." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="...and far too late for Chelan's Echo Valley." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mission Ridge panorama from NNW to E." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A short hike to Mission's Bomber Cliffs area." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A quick descent leads down to one of the notorious Bomber Chutes." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata poses by a rimed sang on the hike to Mission's Microwave area." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching Microwave where fresh lines await!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata rides down from top of Microwave." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mission Ridge panorama looking north." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/winter1112_14.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/winter1112_14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Animation of the author dropping-in Toasters on April Fool's day (Silver King)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wb0422_01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0422_01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fresh late April lines await on Whistler's Flute Shoulder!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wb0422_02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0422_02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A grand view from Flute towards Fissile and Overlord." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/wb0422_03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0422_03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="My line into the bowl skier's left of Flute Shoulder." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wb0422_04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0422_04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Overlooking Blackomb Glacier and peak from Spearhead." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wb0422_05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0422_05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama overlooking Decker Glacier towards Pattison and Spearhead Range." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/wb0422_06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0422_06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Overlooking Spearhead Glacier as Agata nears the notch above Husume Couloir." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wb0422_08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0422_08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A well-deserved ride after a long hike to Husume." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wb0422_09.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0422_09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Late April pow in Husume apron sequence." /></a>
<br><a href="uploaded_images/wb0422_07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wb0422_07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Agata descends Husume Couloir." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cinco.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cinco_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On the Spanky's Ladder bootpack to Ruby Bowl. We enjoyed completely untracked pow down both Diamond and Ruby, as well as Blackcomb Glacier from top of Showcase. Arguably the best we've had it at Spanky's and definitely no better way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Another great Turkey-to-Taco ski season!" /></a> <div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-odetolanina?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
sverdina
http://www.blogger.com/profile/07261875680011293009
noreply@blogger.com
tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.capforest
2012-05-25T15:57:00.000-07:00
2012-05-25T15:57:06.287-07:00
Capitol Forest MTB, May 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
The first big warm-up of the season and if NWAC’s special spring avalanche advisory was anything to go by, best to stay off the slopes and delay those ambitious alpine objectives for a while longer. Of course I knew I would come to regret the decision; I always do. Alas Kulshan isn’t going anywhere soon…I hope, so off to ride the singletrack in Olympia’s Capitol Forest we go. CF rider Lupo served as tour guide for Rory and me, taking us on what is reputed to be the Forest’s premier moto-free, 100% singletrack ride – Jackson’s Loop. We wrapped-up the day with a shuttle drop to bounce down the short jump trail there and an opportunity to exfoliate my shins. I s’pose it would be easy to get lost, but for those MTB’ers prepared to navigate this vast maze, some of the best-maintained trails and flowy downhill anywhere awaits!
<br><br>
<a href="uploaded_images/capforest01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/capforest01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A pleasant climb through alternating clear-cut and lush forest." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/capforest02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/capforest02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The descent begins just shy of Capitol Peak." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/capforest03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/capforest03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A screamin' downhill!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/capforest04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/capforest04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Out into clear-cut with The Dawg coming into view." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/capforest05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/capforest05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="An unexpected alpine feel for a decidedly subalpine elevation." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/capforest06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/capforest06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Did I mention the great views of Rainier?" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/capforest07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/capforest07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="With tardy departure from the Lupo ‘estate’ in Hoquiam the next morning, I arrived in Westport only to flail about in the blown-out surf for a few hours. Beer:30 came much sooner than expected..." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/capforest08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/capforest08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Half Moon Bay panorama looking north." /></a>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-capforest?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
sverdina
http://www.blogger.com/profile/07261875680011293009
noreply@blogger.com
tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.turtlegrouse
2012-06-07T18:25:00.000-07:00
2012-06-07T18:25:06.287-07:00
The Turtle and a Grouse – a tale of springtime (mis)adventures, June 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
Striking a familiar theme, signore Lupo, Steve and I tabled other plans and instead set our sights on low hanging fruit of Tahoma’s proverbial orchard. Lupo had unfinished business with the Turtle Snowfield to attend to and I was happy to oblige. Cutting the diagonal across the Wilson/Nisqually Glacier involved more crevasse navigation than I was expecting for this time of year, but it certainly seemed faster than the low traverse I employed last time. And on this particular day, time was of the essence as the weather deteriorated rapidly that afternoon and threatened to ruin the descent with whiteout. Speaking of which, our fallback plan to ride Baker’s Coleman-Deming route some weeks later was also fraught with whiteout and all things unpleasant. From gale force winds, blowing snow and ice, driving rain and pea soup, especially down Grouse Creek, I think I’ve rediscovered the lost art-of-low-expectations.
<br><br>
<a href="uploaded_images/turtle01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/turtle01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tahoma as seen on the approach with our high point marked in red." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/turtle02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/turtle02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Steve skinning with Tatoosh Range in background." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/turtle03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/turtle03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Weaving around crevasses on the Wilson/Nisqually." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/turtle04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/turtle04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Higher up the glacier with the worst of the crevasses behind us." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/turtle05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/turtle05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Top of Turtle up close and personal with the Kautz Ice Cliff." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/turtle06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/turtle06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down from my high point on The Turtle Snowfield." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/turtle07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/turtle07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Steve skis out of the whiteout on The Turtle." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/turtle08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/turtle08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Just a couple crevasses to avoid on the Wilson descent." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/turtle09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/turtle09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Enjoying creamed corn down the Wilson." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/turtle10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/turtle10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Lupo rides a nice pitch down the lower Wilson as Steve looks on." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cd01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cd01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A pleasant afternoon at the Douglas Fir campground near Glacier, WA after being stymied by pouring rain earlier that day." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cd02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cd02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Ascending Grouse Creek." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/cd03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cd03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="I finally popped out of the fog to be greeted with this view!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cd04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cd04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Baker and Black Butte panorama." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cd05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cd05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View up towards the Roman Wall shortly before being engulfed in clouds." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/cd06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cd06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="At the Colfax-Baker saddle contemplating the descent." /></a>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-turtlegrouse?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
sverdina
http://www.blogger.com/profile/07261875680011293009
noreply@blogger.com
tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.junegloom
2012-07-03T15:47:00.000-07:00
2012-07-03T15:47:06.287-07:00
June Gloom MTB, June 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
For your consideration, here are a couple must-do rides in our fair state – Little Bald Mountain and the Ranger Creek-Palisades-Skookum Flats link-up. Both I’ve ridden before to some degree or another (as shown <a href="blog_archive.htm#jun01" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('blog_archive.htm#jun01','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">here</a> and <a href="blog_archive.htm#jul00" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('blog_archive.htm#jul00','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">here</a>) but that was like what, over 10 years ago now? Despite some annoying patches of snow on the descent just north of the ride’s namesake peak, the former was as good as I remembered it with much needed vitamin D, an actual summit to ride off and views that go on forever.
<br><br>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Scenic forest road ascent." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Final switchback before the summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching the Little Bald summit shelter." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Team Trek and Little Bald shelter." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View west from Little Bald." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Beginning of the descent from LB." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking up as Eric descends the faint trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Trail through sagebrush high on LB." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Beginning of the descent on the north-side of LB." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A short bit of hike-a-bike through the talus field." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Out of the forest and on to the classic ridge trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Distant view of Bumping Lake." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Cruiser singletrack on TR961." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Rocky bits and exposure will check your speed." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald17.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Final stretch along TR961 before dropping back down into Naches River Valley." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/lilbald18.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/lilbald18_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Time for a recovery drink at Halfway Flat CG." /></a>
<br><br>
For the latter, there’s still far too much snow up high on Dalles Ridge so I avoided Corral Pass and rode up Ranger Creek instead (a worthy descent in its own right BTW) before intersecting with the Palisades Trail at the shelter. Whether ripping down flowy singletrack through a moss-blanketed forest floor or dodging in and out of trees on the edge of a precipice (The Palisades), this descent sets the standard for a “classic” ride. Extra credit goes to those who finish via the popular Skookum Flats Trail! For more information on these and countless other local rides, be sure to visit the <a href="http://evergreenmtb.org/home/index.php" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW">Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance</a> website.
<br><br>
<a href="uploaded_images/ranpalsko01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ranpalsko01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View of Snoquera Falls - the Palisades ride goes along the edge of this cliff somewhere." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ranpalsko02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ranpalsko02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The shelter at the intersection of Ranger Creek and Palisades Trails." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ranpalsko03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ranpalsko03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Forest trail leading to the cliff edge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ranpalsko04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ranpalsko04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Overview of White River Valley." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ranpalsko05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ranpalsko05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Trail at edge of The Palisades." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/ranpalsko06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ranpalsko06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="An impressive view of Mount Rainier from the north." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ranpalsko07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ranpalsko07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Just another switchback in the forest." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ranpalsko08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ranpalsko08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Now along the banks of White River riding the Skookum Flats Trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ranpalsko09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ranpalsko09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="700 yr old Douglas Fir at The Dalles Campground." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.cashmere1
2012-07-20T13:59:00.000-07:00
2012-07-20T13:59:06.287-07:00
Cashmere Mountain - West Ridge, July 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere_intro.JPG" border="0" alt="Cashmere Mountain as seen from Argonaut Peak in May 2004." /><br /><br />
Cashmere Mountain is a prominent peak east of the Cascade Crest and ranks as one of the highest peaks in the Icicle Creek drainage. It is easily visible from Highway 2 east of Leavenworth and its namesake town of Cashmere, not to mention any of the nearby Stuart Range peaks. With good summer-time trail access as well as excellent early spring <a href="cashmere/cashmere.wmv">ski touring</a> (video), the mountain will inevitably lure the rain weary west-sider in search of a casual day trip on a high and rewarding summit.
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<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking down on Eightmile Lake from the trail heading up to Caroline Lakes." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="One of many Stuart Range panoramas from the early on in the approach (photo taken on return)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="I crossed this small basin below Windy Pass before continuing up on Cashmere's south-trending ridge." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Scree and talus basin just below the crest of the far west portion of the West Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="An aesthetic high ridge-top trail leading to the final summit crag." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The somewhat notorious north-side snow traverse (easy in soft snow)." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View north from the far end of aforementioned snow traverse." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Summit panorama looking south toward Stuart Range." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View from Cashmere down to Cashmere (town)...or is it Peshastin?" /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Ladybugs!!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Another summit panorama looking south as the weather continues to clear." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="One last panorama from early on the descent with improved afternoon lighting." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/cashmere13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cashmere13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Last look back at Cashmere from Caroline Lakes." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.wallowa
2012-08-17T16:29:00.000-07:00
2012-08-17T16:29:06.287-07:00
Wallowa Wanderings - Sacajawea Peak & Matterhorn, July 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa_intro.JPG" border="0" alt="The Wallowa Mountains of northeastern Oregon as seen from the Seven Devils area to the east." /><br /><br />
Tucked away in northeastern Oregon lies a relatively compact mountain range called the Wallowa Mountains. Covering an area roughly 50 by 60 miles, these mountains are considered to be an offshoot of The Rockies and have been likened by some as “Oregon’s only mountain range”. While not entirely accurate the label makes light of the fact that the Oregon Cascades are comprised primarily of low forested mountains interspersed with the occasional stratovolcano, volcanic horn or crumbling remnant all in varying states of decay. While the Wallowa’s certainly harbor some chossy heaps as well, the geology is not volcanic but nonetheless represents the largest subalpine and alpine area in Oregon. There are over 30 peaks that rise above 9,000 feet, most of which lie within the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Of these peaks, Sacajawea (9,838 ft) and Matterhorn (9,826 ft) are the tallest and also the sixth and seventh highest summits in the Beaver State overall. The photos and words below describe a short journey to these two Wallowa summits back in early July of this year. <br><br>
<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Pretty scenery along the West Fork Wallowa River Trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View looking up the Wallowa River Valley from the Ice Lake Trail *note that the bridge over the river has been removed and a crossing must be made at the logjam." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Beautiful waterfalls below Ice Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Majestic Ice Lake panorama (photo taken following morning)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Sun and raindrops from a passing thunderstorm at my lakeside camp." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama of upper basin below Matterhorn and Pk 9775." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Daytime moon peeking from the Matterhorn-Pk 9775 saddle." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Ice Lake from Pk 9775." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Sacajawea Peak and the intervening ridge between it and Pk 9775." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View north from Sacajawea summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On my way back to Pk 9775 with Matterhorn beyond." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching Matterhorn from the saddle north of the summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Like ripples frozen in time over an ancient seabed. -rock formation on Matterhorn" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Matterhorn summit panorama looking south to west." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/wallowa15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wallowa15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Where I would be off to next...Seven Devils in distance." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.hedevil
2012-08-23T16:22:00.000-07:00
2012-08-23T16:22:06.287-07:00
Seven Devils - He Devil via NW Ridge, July 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/he_devil_intro_LG.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil_intro_SM.JPG" border="0" alt="The Seven Devils as seen from the Heaven's Gate Overlook (click image to enlarge)." /></a><br /><br />
Shortly east of Oregon’s Wallowa Mountains and immediately east of Hell’s Canyon rise the Seven Devil Mountains of Idaho. Composed of a small cluster of peaks oriented primarily along a north-to-south trending spine, the view from up high struck me as similar in appearance to a smaller version of Wyoming’s Grand Tetons. It is a rugged range with impressive relief rising out of the Snake River and culminating with 9,420-ft He Devil. <i>He</i> is possibly the highest peak in the range and in my opinion offers a reasonable sampling of what the Seven Devils have to offer. If nothing else, with the Windy Saddle Trailhead a relatively short 3 hour drive from Pullman, WA, these are probably the closest mountains worth visiting for all you fellow Coug’s out there!
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<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Something in this photo is no more - RIP W8 :( -Panorama from the road up to Windy Saddle and Heaven's Gate Overlook." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="If taking the shorter High Route AKA Goat Pass cross-country route, start up a path just beyond the second set of outhouses at the Seven Devils Campground. You'll come to a clearing before long and ascend to this saddle (trail passes cliffs on right)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mirror Lake with Tower of Babel beyond from the aforementioned saddle." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The trail then contours the south slope to reach a notch WSW of Mirror Lake. Cross over and follow a path on the key ledge (seen here) towards Sheep Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First look at Sheep Lake with He Devil beyond." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="He Devil from down in Sheep Lake basin." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Sheep Lake panorama." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View up towards notch between She Devil and He Devil (left to right)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Large talus basin with NW Ridge beyond." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Final bit of slabby rock on NW Ridge shortly before the top (note summit cairn)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View towards Wallowas of Oregon from He Devil summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="He Devil summit panorama looking NE to SE." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On return - view of Heaven's Gate Overlook area from saddle north of Mirror Lake" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On the road again - overview of historic White Bird Battlefield." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/he_devil15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/he_devil15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A glorious end to an unbelievably hot July day. -view from hwy 26 near Royal City, WA." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.plainsofabe
2012-09-14T14:29:00.000-07:00
2012-09-14T14:29:06.287-07:00
Plains of Abraham MTB, July 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
Plains of Abraham, Ape Canyon…whatever you choose to call it, this is a standout among the classic rides our state has to offer. Without question, the highlight entails venturing out onto the surreal pumice plateau (or plains) left behind after the cataclysmic 1980 eruption of Mt. Saint Helens. Like “riding on the surface of the moon” is a common expression used to describe this otherworldly journey through the blast zone. If the scenery isn’t enough to satiate, the ripping Ape Canyon descent will whet your appetite for speed with excellent downhill over smooth and flowy pine needle single-track. And should you prefer loop rides over OAB’s like I do, might I suggest going clockwise with a descent into Smith Creek rather than the other way around? Two to three miles of tedious hike-a-bike up an endless pumice trail is enough to ruin even the best of days. Or you could just ignore my advice and go counter-clockwise starting from Windy Ridge only to turn back 3/4 of the way up Smith and needlessly make a 35+ mile epic out of it as I did.
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<a href="uploaded_images/plainsofabe01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/plainsofabe01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The scenery from the Windy Ridge parking area."/></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/plainsofabe02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/plainsofabe02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down Smith Creek Valley from Windy Ridge. I tried looping back up this way, but eventually turned back and returned via the Plains of Abraham Trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/plainsofabe03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/plainsofabe03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The trail follows the crest of a lateral moraine (left) before reaching The Plains." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/plainsofabe04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/plainsofabe04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="An otherworldly land of pumice." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/plainsofabe05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/plainsofabe05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The trail then descends a forested ridge down to Ape Canyon." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/plainsofabe06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/plainsofabe06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View back towards St. Helens from near Ape Canyon." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/plainsofabe07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/plainsofabe07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Sightseeing in Ape Canyon." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/plainsofabe08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/plainsofabe08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="And if getting spanked by a 35+ miler wasn't enough punishment, the wind and rain during the final bit back off the plains and to the parking lot certainly was." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.fortress
2012-09-28T14:52:00.000-07:00
2012-09-28T14:52:06.287-07:00
Fortress Mountain - East Ridge, July 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/buck04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress_intro_SM.JPG" border="0" alt="Fortress Mountain as seen from Buck Mountain." /></a><br /><br />
Deep in the heart of the Glacier Peak Wilderness, 8760-ft Fortress Mountain is one of the highest non-volcanic peaks in the Washington Cascades. Fortress is an imposing massif with a distinct pyramidal shape, particularly when viewed from the south. At least that is the impression I got when gazing upon it from the summit of <a href="2011_11_01_archive.asp#buck1" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('2011_11_01_archive.asp#buck1','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Buck Mountain</a> last summer. And for a peak once considered “unscalable from any angle”, first impressions were incentive enough for me to go take a closer look. This <i>closer look</i> entailed a one-day (drive incl.) ascent via the East Ridge and descent via South Slope with a camp at Buck Creek Pass later that evening. Basically a carry-over and camp with merely a 9-mile hike out the following day, returning to the same trailhead we started from the day before. A pleasant outing somewhere in-between a day-trip suffer-fest and weekend-long lollygag…
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<a href="uploaded_images/fortress01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching Fortress via the Chiwawa River Basin." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/fortress02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fording a creek at the headwaters of the Chiwawa River." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/fortress03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Upper Chiwawa River Basin panorama ." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/fortress04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking up towards the headwall guarding the upper snow slopes." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/fortress05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A long slog leads to another headwall before gaining the East Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/fortress06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Scrambling low on the East Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/fortress07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="John pauses for a photo on the East Ridge shortly after the class-4 chimney section." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/fortress08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Typical scenery along the East Ridge as one nears the summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/fortress09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking down South Fork Agness Creek with Mount Goode and Logan in distance." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/fortress10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Close-up of Glacier Peak from the east." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/fortress11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fortress summit panorama overlooking Chiwawa River Valley to DaKobed Range and Glacier Peak." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/fortress12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Early on the South Slope descent high above Pass No Pass with Buck Mountain in background center-left." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/fortress13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Descending steep snow on the South Slope." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/fortress14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="We awoke to a foggy morning at Buck Creek Pass." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/fortress15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/fortress15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View of lower South Slope with the brushy headwall we picked our way down the previous evening before reaching camp. Suggest making a descent to Pass No Pass proper and taking the climber's path instead!" /></a>
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sverdina
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.gnp
2012-11-06T16:57:00.000-07:00
2012-11-06T16:57:06.287-07:00
Glacier/Waterton National Park, August 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/gnpmisc08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gnpmisc_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Peaks of Glacier National Park as seen from the top of Big Mountain ski area (aka Whitefish Mountain)." /></a><br /><br />
Dubbed “Crown of the Continent” by the naturalist George Bird Grinnell in 1901, the area that today encompasses Glacier National Park and the adjoining Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta is a land of alpine majesty likely without equal anywhere else in the lower 48 states. Unique for mountain ranges in the US, these mountains bear a strong resemblance to the taller peaks of the <a href="climb.asp#rockies" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW2" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('climb.asp#rockies','NEW_WINDOW2','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Canadian Rockies</a> far to the north, with large u-shaped valleys and outflow lakes radiating like fingers from the base of the highest peaks. In more recent times of course the park has been the poster child for the phenomenon of glacial retreat and of the 150 glaciers known to have existed around the time the park was founded only 37 remained by 2010. Motivated in part to bear witness to the last of these dying glaciers and ‘bag’ a few peaks along the way, Paul and I set out to climb 3 of Glacier’s 6 “ten thousand footers” – Mount Cleveland, Mount Jackson and Mount Siyeh.
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With a good 7 days spent in and around Glacier, we afforded the luxury of rest days between climbs and made the most of it visiting various attractions at a rare (for me) unhurried pace. However, the park being overrun with tourists as it typically is during the summer months, campsites and backcountry permits were few and far in between making both for grueling day climbs and...um...<i>flexible</i> dirtbag camping situations.
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But alas, all good things must come to an end. Just as we’d grown accustomed to falling asleep with the faint aroma of manure wafting in the evening breeze and the nightly procession of concerned cattle lumbering through our camp en route to nearby grazing fields, it was finally time to head back home. Detouring through Whitefish, we continued west on a slow but scenic route across the northern Idaho Panhandle and northeast Washington. The visibility from Hart's Pass and Slate Peak Lookout the following day was quite good despite the many forest fires burning in The Cascades, and made for a fitting finale to memorable road trip that sadly now seems like forever and a day ago.
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Reports for the Cleveland, Jackson and Siyeh climbs, and general sightseeing around the park:
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<a href="gnp/gnpsightseeing1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('gnp/gnpsightseeing1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=800')">GNP/Waterton – sightseeing</a>
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<a href="cleveland/cleveland1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('cleveland/cleveland1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Mount Cleveland – Stoney Indian route</a>
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<a href="jackson/jackson1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('jackson/jackson1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Mount Jackson – Northeast Ridge</a>
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<a href="siyeh/siyeh1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('siyeh/siyeh1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Mount Siyeh – South Slope</a>
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Miscellaneous photos from various points along the way:
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<a href="uploaded_images/gnpmisc01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gnpmisc01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Taking in the scenery just outside the park's eastern boundary with Chief Mountain in background at right." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gnpsightseeing09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gnpsightseeing09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Reentering Glacier from the northeast on Chief Mountain International Highway with Mount Cleveland visible at center in distance." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gnpmisc04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gnpmisc04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama looking east over the praries from a telecommunications station below Divide Mountain." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/gnpmisc03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gnpmisc03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Just another evening at our hobo camp in a cow pasture east of the park." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gnpsightseeing13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gnpsightseeing13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama overlooking Lower Two Medicine Lake from hwy 49." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gnpsightseeing15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gnpsightseeing15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Afternoon light on Saint Mary Lake as seen from hwy 89 just outside the Glacier's eastern boundary with Fusillade Mountain visible just left of center." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/divide01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/divide01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking Divide Mountain." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/divide02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/divide02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The views only get better as one nears the summit of Divide Mountain." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/divide03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/divide03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fractured shale on the summit of Divide." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/divide04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/divide04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Going-to-the-Sun Mountain towers above St. Mary Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/divide05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/divide05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A grand panorama of St. Mary Lake and so much more." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gnpmisc09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gnpmisc09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama from summit of Big Mountain with peaks of Glacier National Park at left and Whitefish Valley at right." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/gnpmisc07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gnpmisc07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A pleasant morning at the saddle on top of the Big Mountain ski resort." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/gnpmisc10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/gnpmisc10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="And now much closer to home - a grand panorama of the North Cascades from the lookout on top of Slate Peak." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.azurite
2012-11-10T12:40:00.000-07:00
2012-11-10T12:40:06.287-07:00
Azurite Peak - std. via Azurite Pass, August 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/azurite_intro_lg.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite_intro.JPG" border="0" alt="Azurite Peak (L) and Mt. Ballard (R) from the SSE (from Tower Mountain) in July 2009." /></a><br /><br />
Steve T. and I abandoned our previous Azurite climb thanks to a horribly overgrown trail with enough downed trees to make even the most seasoned Cascade peakbagger turn back in disgust (we climbed <a href="2011_08_01_archive.asp#robinson1" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW2" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('2011_08_01_archive.asp#robinson1','NEW_WINDOW2','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Mt. Robinson</a> instead). We had been misled by an outdated claim on SummitPost suggesting that the peak makes for a reasonable day trip. The area was ravaged by forest fires in 2003 and the once bikeable Methow River Trail clearly had fallen into disuse and disrepair. In all fairness, the SP report does make mention of the forest fire and warns that “…the trail could become quite burdensome in a few years.” This was certainly the case and I vowed not to return until the trail was cleared and brushed-out.
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Perusing the Methow Valley Sport Trail Association website (MVSTA.com) for MTB trail beta this summer, I came upon an unexpected and fortuitous bit of news. An Evergreen crew had been working on the trail and planned on completing the 8 miles of trail work to the junction with the PCT by mid-August. This would be the first time in several years that the full length of the trail was again rideable without interruption and I intended to take full advantage of it. Based in Aberdeen however, a day trip was obviously out of the question for my current partner in crime John L. As such, we planned instead on combining the drive and a short approach with a camp near the PCT before completing the climb the following day.
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<a href="uploaded_images/azurite01.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Black bear sighting along the W. Methow River Trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/azurite02.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The W. Methow River Trail makes for a fun ride, especially if not carrying overnight gear!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/azurite03.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A convienient campsite about a mile before the PCT junction. A better site immediately after the bridge over Brush Creek lies a little farther ahead." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/azurite04.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Having just turned off the PCT, John starts up the side trail that climbs up to Azurite Pass." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/azurite05.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking the broad shoulder above Azurite Pass." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/azurite06.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First up-close view of Azurite from the shoulder." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/azurite07.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Staying on the crest up from the shoulder, you'll eventually come to a notch and see this mess of gullies and ribs before you." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/azurite08.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Traverse the scree slope below the notch and aim for the obvious left-slanting shit-pile gully at the opposite end of this slope." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/azurite09.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Or you could go off-route as I did and turn up and right a gully or two too soon. Much 'scrambling' over towers and into deep notches ensued with the summit and final gully in view just beyond." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/azurite10.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down the second prominent gully leading up to the summit. Solid rock was climbed up on the left wall of this feature and avoided most of the loose horror show that is this gully." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/azurite11.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Self portrait on summit with Tower and Goldernhorn in background (left-to-right)." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/azurite12.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/azurite12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Azurite summit panorama looking west (I think)." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.joffre
2012-11-14T18:10:00.000-07:00
2012-11-14T18:10:06.287-07:00
Joffre Peak - Southeast Face, September 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/joffre_intro_lg.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Joffre Peak as seen from meadows along the Cerise Creek Trail." /></a><br /><br />
With Labor Day weekend to myself for the first time since I can remember, the moment had come for a return to “The Duff” and to stand atop Joffre Peak. Following the same driving approach as when Eric H. and I came this way to climb <a href="matier/matier1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW2" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('matier/matier1.htm','NEW_WINDOW2','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Mt. Matier</a>, I barely managed to sneak my car around the gate at the start of Cerise Creek Road this time. Was there a gate here back in June 2004? Also, the road continuation past the gravel pit/quarry was pretty overgrown last time, but is now impassable for all vehicles except perhaps an M1 Abrams. Okay, an ATV would work too… In any case, it was just an additional ~2 <i>joggable</i> miles from here to the trailhead without much elevation gain.
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Having been replaced by a new trail that starts from the highway (same as winter route?), my approach apparently isn't used much anymore. It joins the Cerise Creek Road somewhere just south of the now demolished bridge over Cerise Creek-a bridge I was intending to cross the following morning. In the absence of a bridge however, I was faced with yet another chilly ford…my third one this summer!
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<a href="uploaded_images/joffre01.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Matier, Hartzell, Spetch and Rex's Pillar (left-to-right) as seen from the Duffey Lakes Road near Joffre Lakes parking area." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/joffre02.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A pleasant evening at the quarry is about to commence. A bike would helps with the ~2 miles of un-driveable road to the trailhead, providing you don't forget the roof rack keys at home!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/joffre03.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First glimpse of Matier and Joffre from Cerise Creek Road near the former Cerise Creek Alpine Area Trailhead." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/joffre04.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Crossroads in the Coast Mountains - go right (to hut)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/joffre05.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Following the moraine up into the alpine. The proper (easier) way to go is to follow the trail through trees up and right from the hut. A cairned trail will lead easily to the glacier's edge and avoids the scree and talus of the moraine." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/joffre06.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A party of 4 follows my tracks up a snowfinger at the glacier's edge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/joffre07.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Matier and Anniversary Glacier as seen from start of Southeast Face route." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/joffre08.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The foursome takes to the upper snowfinger. Great scrambling can also be had on the spur just climber's right of the snow finger." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/joffre09.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The key ledge/ramp feature that leads to a steep gully and short class 4 traverse (crux) guarding the easy upper slopes." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/joffre10.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Anniversary Glacier with Matier in the clouds from high on Joffre. Traverse left around the false summit and cross over the south side overlooking the Aussie Coulior for the final scramble to the summit. Or..." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/joffre11.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Not much of a view today from summit of Joffre. I returned via the notch between the summits, then up and over the false summit (class 4, maybe low 5th with some exposure...but much more enjoyable)." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/joffre12.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Because let's face it, tofu sucks! (according to McSweeney's)" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/joffre13.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down the gash between the summits. I think there's a route up this called the Central Couloir." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/joffre14.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/joffre14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A bit of a view from beneath the clouds looking north." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.cathedral1
2012-11-28T10:58:00.000-07:00
2012-11-28T10:58:06.287-07:00
Cathedral Peak - Southeast Buttress, September 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div><a href="uploaded_images/cathedral_intro_lg.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Cathedral Peak as seen from the Boundary Trail between Apex Pass and Cathedral Pass." /></a><br /><br />
Arguably some of the best backpacking country Washington has to offer, the Pasayten Wilderness is rather unlike the rest of the Cascade mountain range. Particularly from the Cathedral Peak area, views of the surroundings closely resemble what one might expect to see from the high peaks of the Teton or Wind River ranges. To quote Alan Kearney, “…like a little slice of Wyoming.”
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While neighboring <a href="grimface/grimface1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW2" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('grimface/grimface1.htm','NEW_WINDOW2','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">Grimface Mountain</a> in Canada is taller, Cathedral Peak is the highest Pasayten summit in the immediate area just south of the 49th Parallel. And like its taller neighbor to the north, the granitic rock on its sheer faces and buttresses features an abundance of quality climbs. Joined (or should I say led?) by long-time Pasayten Wilderness backpacker, accomplished climber, and (as of this this writing) AMGA Rock Guide Tod Bloxham, we set out to scale the peak’s classic Southeast Buttress over three days in early September. Tod had climbed the route already several years ago, but was forced to abandon the headwall picthes for the 5.6 chimney bypass courtesy of a passing October snowstorm. While he was keen on finally dispatching the omitted pitches, I privately worried if I could even make it up these on top rope...
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<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral01.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Early on the hike up Chewuch River Trail, site of the tragic 30-Mile fire in which 4 firefighters where killed on July 9, 2001." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral02.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Miles upon miles of burned-out forest along the Chewuch River Trail. Upon our return, the wind blowing through the naked trees down-valley from here sounded like so many disembodied voices crying out to us. Creepy!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral03.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fun with erratics in Chewuch River Valley. What can I say? It's a mind-numbing ~15 miles of trail from the car to the cabins at Tungsten Mine." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral04.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="We hiked the mostly flat river trail for 8 miles to the junction with the Tungsten Creek Trail (seen here)." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral05.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tungsten Mine cabins - our home for the next two nights! As evidenced by everything from simple inscriptions scratched into the walls to the countless well-crafted plaques, these cabins have provided shelter for a staggering number of visitors since mining operations ceased in the early 1970's." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral06.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First glimpse of Cathedral the following morning from the Boundary Trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral07.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking up Southeast Buttress from base - oh my!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral08.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tod starts up the first pitch on the SE Butt (~5.8 variation)." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral09.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Climbing the chimney with keyhole on the second pitch (5.7-5.8)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral10.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Somewhere on the third pitch of SE Butt?" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral11.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Moderate climbing probably on or near the 4th pitch." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral12.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A bit of low 5th and some 4th shortly before the classic headwall pitches." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral13.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tod with first 5.8/5.9 finger crack pitch above. This is an absolutely stellar pitch!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral14.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking down with the author flailing up the second headwall pitch. We passed on the 5.9 OW and went for the 10a finger crack at right." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral15.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Topping-out the final headwall pitch above the large table-top ledge (short but hard 5.8 variation to ledge then ~5.9 crack for the finish)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral16.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Coiling the rope at the end of the technical climbing just below summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral17.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View north from summit towards peaks of Matriarch-Macabre-Grimface traverse (right-to-left)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral18.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral18_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A grand summit panorama looking south to west (left-to-right)." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral19.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral19_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tod takes a leap of faith over the infamous cleft that literally divides the mountain in two." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral20.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral20_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Descending the West Ridge with a touch of Wyoming-like scenery beyond. West Peak of Amphitheatre Mountain and Upper Cathedral Lake at left." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral21.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral21_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking Boundary Trail just east of Cathedral Pass with SE Butt in profile at left." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/cathedral22.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/cathedral22_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fall colors beginning to show on the hike back to Apex Pass and the cabins at Tungsten Mine." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.suntop_crystal
2012-12-13T14:53:00.000-07:00
2012-12-13T14:53:06.287-07:00
The 'other' SR 410 rides – Suntop & Crystal, September 2012
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Rounding out the selection of assorted MTB rides along the SR 410 corridor, Suntop Mountain and Crystal Mountain offer more of the same quality single-track similar to that found on the <a href="2012_07_01_archive.asp#junegloom" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW2" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('g2012_07_01_archive.asp#junegloom','NEW_WINDOW2','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">NE side of the White River Valley</a>. For the ~20 mile Suntop loop, one starts with a 6 mile road climb to reach a bit of a saddle and where the regular trailhead starts. Continue up for an additional mile or two past the gate to reach the Suntop Lookout proper. There’s an excellent view of Mt. Rainier from up here providing the air isn’t as smoky as it was this year!
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For the return, there’s a fair amount of undulating terrain to get past before real downhill fun begins. Having rushed through the first half of the ride, I was pretty well spent by the time I traversed into Buck Creek Valley and started down the rippin’ Fawn Ridge descent. With failing brakes, I barely hung on through the tight switchbacks on the final slopes flanking White River Valley. Eventually reaching the valley floor at the Ranger Creek landing strip, I passed on the Skookum Flats Trail for a faster option and rode the highway back to where I parked on FS Rd #73.
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<a href="uploaded_images/suntop01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/suntop01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The lookout atop Suntop Mountain." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/suntop02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/suntop02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Suntop Mountain panorama with Mount Rainier totally obscured by smoke." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/suntop03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/suntop03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Initial part of the descent from Suntop lookout." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/suntop04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/suntop04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A long uphill grind through the forest south of the peak." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/suntop05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/suntop05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A fun trail along the ridge crest which extends south from Suntop." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/suntop06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/suntop06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Forest trail in Buck Creek Valley." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/suntop07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/suntop07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Final section of trail through clear-cut above White River Valley with Palisades opposite." /></a>
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If riding the ~14 mile Crystal loop counter-clockwise as Eric and I did, a good place to start is the horse camp on the west side of the Crystal Mountain Boulevard. From there we proceeded to grind up trail 1163 – a trail familiar to me thanks to countless ‘Northback’ ski adventures over the years. Eventually reaching the meadowed ridge crest, the trail turns south and traverses more of Crystal’s winter-time ‘slack country’ north of Morning Glory Bowl. It ends finally at the resort’s access road near Northway Peak. After a break at the Summit House, we began the descent picking up the single-track again at the base of Powder Bowl. Traversing the chutes above Bear Pits, we made our way towards A-Basin and then Silver Basin on excellent single-track. The final, long descent now along the east-side of Silver Creek is a white-knuckle adrenaline joy ride and makes for a fitting finish to a thoroughly enjoyable day of mountain biking.
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<a href="uploaded_images/crystalMTB01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystalMTB01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Vibrant autumn colors along Crystal's trail 1163." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/crystalMTB02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystalMTB02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Rolling across the meadowed ridge-top north of Northway Peak." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/crystalMTB03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystalMTB03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Back in the familiar environs of Crystal's Northback." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/crystalMTB04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystalMTB04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching Grubstake Peak with Northway Peak in background." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/crystalMTB05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystalMTB05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric takes a well-deserved rest below the Mt. Rainier Gondola station." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/crystalMTB06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystalMTB06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Descending to a fog-filled Powder Bowl." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/crystalMTB07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystalMTB07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Enjoying the cruiser single-track somewhere near Queens Run." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/crystalMTB08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/crystalMTB08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looping around Hen Skin Lake." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.angels_staircase
2013-01-07T16:22:00.000-07:00
2013-01-07T16:22:06.287-07:00
Angel's Staircase MTB, October 2012
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For the final ride of the 13th Baktun, Eric and I set our sights this 25-mile Methow classic. Typically done as a clockwise loop, Angel's Staircase features the highest singletrack in Washington. We spent a good amount of time pedaling at 7000 feet and up to as high as high as 8000 feet as we crossed over a ridge shortly SSW of Martin Peak. Probably best when the vibrant colors of Fall are on full display, this ride is all about panoramic mountain vistas, scenic alpine meadows dotted with azure lakes, a grueling ascent and exhilarating descent with plenty of tedious hike-a-bike throughout. Despite needlessly second-guessing our bearings on the final grind up to Horsehead Pass, costing us precious calories and daylight, the ride went off without a hitch and to me ranks among the top 5 in the state. Combine this with one of the other excellent rides out in the Methow for a weekend well spent.
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<a href="uploaded_images/as01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Enjoyable biking on Martin Creek Trail near the beginning of the ride." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Beware motos on Martin Creek Trail!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fording the creek draining Eagle Lake (I think)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Out of the forest and into an alpine basin below Cooney Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Pretty meadow near Cooney Lake with sub-summit of Martin Peak at right." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/as06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Resting at Cooney Lake. The ride continues on up to the saddle visible above." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Turning larches and pine needle singletrack near Cooney Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tedious hike-a-bike with Cooney Lake now far below." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Traversing the 8000-ft ridgeline south of Martin Peak." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/as10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Distant views of the Stuart Range from high on the ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down East Fork Prince Creek with peaks flanking the west shore of Lake Chelan opposite." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama from 8000-ft ridgeline looking SW at far left to NW with Star Peak showing at far right." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/as13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Beginning the rocky descent from the ridge with Star Peak in distance right-of-center." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Dorkus Maximus in the meadow now on west side of Martin Peak." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Singletrack through high alpine meadows characterizes the middle third of the ride." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/as16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Rolling singletrack somewhere before the Boiling Lake junction." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as17.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eric at Boiling Lake shortly before the climb up to Horsehead Pass." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as18.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as18_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Too tired to pedal on the final ascent to Horsehead Pass." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as19.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as19_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Commencing the decent from Horsehead Pass towards Eagle Lake and beyond." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/as20.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as20_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Short rocky bits interrupt the flow on what is otherwise a long, continuous descent from Horsehead Pass." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/as21.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/as21_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Final view over lower Eagle Lake with Methow Valley beyond." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.2012misc
2013-01-11T19:42:00.000-07:00
2013-01-11T19:42:06.287-07:00
Summer/Fall 2012 - Miscellaneous
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
Solid from mid-July through September and into October, a forty or fifty year record almost broken last year by the longest rain-free streak in decades. Make the most of it we did as we always do, living each precious sunny weekend as if it were our last. And so, what follows is a little bit of <i>what else</i> we do to pass the time during the dog days of summer (and Fall).
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<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Bellingham Bay with Mount Baker in distance as seen from Mount Constitution (Orcas Island). Lummi Island in foreground." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama looking NE (left) to SE (right) from lookout on top of Mount Constitution." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Taking in the scenery at a secluded bay near Highway Rock (Banks Lake)." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Paddling through choppy water with Steamboat Rock in distance." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Out on Banks Lake with Highway Rock visible in distance at left." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Exploring the many inlets and channels north of Steamboat Rock State Park." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Paddling the turquoise waters of Deep Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Towering basalt cliffs line the east end of Deep Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Shuksan as seen from Picture Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Bagley Lakes basin with Table Mountain at left." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View from Artist Point with Baker Lake and band of smoke smothering Puget Sound basin in distance." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The folks posing at Artist Point with Mount Shuksan behind." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The Space Needle as seen looking down the 2nd Ave canyon from Smith Tower." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama of Elliot Bay and downtown Seattle from Smith Tower." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A perfect September afternoon at Seattle's Gas Works Park." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/2012misc16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/2012misc16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Doggy torture paddling around Lake Union." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.apoxpow
2013-01-18T22:16:00.000-07:00
2013-01-18T22:16:06.287-07:00
End of Days – Nov/Dec 2012
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
No fire and brimstone or zombie apocalypse, just epic pow late in the fall and on 12/21 in particular. I’m not as enthusiastic about 2013 so far, so for now I wait patiently for dark clouds on the horizon and look forward to stormy days ahead.
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<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Apocalypse Pow - the inspiration for this post maybe?" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Untracked lines down along the Showcase t-bar." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down Surf's Up with lower Blackcomb 'Glacier' below." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="En route to DOA with The Spearhead in background right-of-center." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama from east slopes of Blackcomb Peak towards Decker Mountain and so much more." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Taking in the view at the mouth of DOA." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama of icefields and clouds as seen looking to the SE from Blackcomb." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Riding down DOA." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Last run of the day as the afternoon shadows grow long - view down Husume Couloir." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Lupo makes first tracks of the season down Crystal's Fears Gulch on the day at the End Of Days." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Typical snowy scenery as seen from Alpental's chair 2." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A momentary break in the clouds makes for a quick photo opportunity en route to some of my favorite stashes on Cypress Mountain." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fresh tracks down Surprise on an unexpectedly un-crowded day." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="We had The Cirque to ourselves for most of the morning." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The race is on down Headwall and back to the t-bar." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/apoxpow17.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/apoxpow17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama from Symphony Bowl with Blackcomb's 7th Heaven area in background." /></a> <div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5114554408667422880-apoxpow?l=sverdina.com%2Fdefault.asp' alt='' /></div>
sverdina
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.febSD
2013-03-01T13:39:00.000-07:00
2013-03-01T13:39:06.287-07:00
It's back ON!
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
Picking up where we left off in late December now that winter has finally returned. Don't get me wrong, the sunny days certainly made for some nice photo ops especially along the Sound and points north, but it does come at a price. Anyway, with long overdue kitchen renos to show for the January-mid February drought, we’re relieved to finally resume our snow-chasing routine…
<br><br>
<a href="uploaded_images/discPk_alki01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/discPk_alki01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A sunny January afternoon with Mt. Rainier floating in the sky above South Seattle." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/discPk_alki02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/discPk_alki02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Paddleboarders near West Point at Discovery Park on a balmy mid-winter day." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/discPk_alki03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/discPk_alki03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The fog lifts to reveal the Bainbridge ferry with Mount Constance in distance as seen from Alki Beach." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/stanleypark01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/stanleypark01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Girl in a wetsuit statue at Stanley Park." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/stanleypark02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/stanleypark02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama of downtown Vancouver from the Seawall." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/stanleypark03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/stanleypark03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking across Burrard Inlet with the North Shore in distance." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/febSD01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/febSD01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking south across a sea of fog from top of Cypress Mountain in eary February." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/febSD02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/febSD02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View of Second Narrows and the Lower Mainland from Cypress Mountain." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/febSD03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/febSD03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Breaking the streak finally at Hyak w/ a pair of relieved shredders riding the Hidden Valley chair." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/febSD04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/febSD04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fresh lines past Nash Gate during an un-crowded Vert Fest Sunday." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/febSD05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/febSD05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Frame capture of Agata's first tracks down Sunnyside in late February." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/febSD06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/febSD06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Bottomless late-February pow riding down Upper-Exterminator." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/febSD07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/febSD07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Enjoying the requisite 'Fears' descent for Agata's first time this season." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/febSD08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/febSD08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="And when everything else is tracked-out, a 410'er is in order." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/febSD09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/febSD09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking back to the hwy after running out of snow in White River Valley." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/febSD10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/febSD10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="...and back to Alpy the following day for fresh tracks past Elevator Gate." /></a>
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sverdina
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.kendall
2013-03-15T16:00:00.000-07:00
2013-03-15T16:00:06.287-07:00
Kendall Peak touring, February 2013
<div style="clear:both;"></div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendallpk.JPG" border="0" alt="Kendall Peak as seen from the South Ridge." /><br /><br />
I’m not sure what took me so long, but considering it’s only about an hours drive from town and with an easy approach starting from the Summit West parking lot, Kendall Peak is obvious low hanging fruit for the greater Seattle backcountry ski touring community. Whether it’s the steeps, open bowls and faces or couliors you’re after, Kendall has it all. Making the most of a 3-day weekend in February, Franklin and I toured the peak’s West Flank only to return a couple days later with Eli and Justin to shred the Left Twin Couloir which somehow eluded us the first time. Highlights include skiing off the summit via the summit gully and West Flank, and an exhilarating descent from Kendall Ridge down to Gold Creek.
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<b>Kendall Peak - West Flank/Gully</b>
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<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Failing to heed the warning in Volken's Snoqualmie Pass ski guide, we turned up and right either too soon or too late (depending) and had some annoying cliff issues to deal with." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Enjoying the scenery from Kendall Stump." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning the forested ridge northwest of Kendall Peak Lakes." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Traversing the wide West Flank of Kendall." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching Kendall's summit from the north." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View from just below summit of Kendall Ridge chutes (Left and Right Twin visible)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Franklin skis off the summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skiing down the summit gully." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Fast turns down the summit gully." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Franklin exits the gully." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Enjoying the pow on West Flank." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning back up for seconds." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching the summit ridge this time south of the summit." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Dropping a steep and deep chute from the ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Franklin's turn down the chute." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Out of the chute and onto the West Flank." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west17.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Last run down the West Flank." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_west18.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_west18_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Final look back up, now joined by Karla and friend." /></a>
<br><br>
<b>Kendall Ridge - Left Twin Couloir</b>
<br><br>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Early morning low on Kendall Stump with Red Mountain peeking in background." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View of Kendall's West Flank with our tracks (and avalanche) from two days earlier." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Eli skinning the forested ridge northwest of Kendall Peak Lakes." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down Left Twin from Kendall Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First tracks down Left Twin!" /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Shredding Left Twin Couloir." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A well deserved break in Kendall's magnificent East Basin." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning back up with Left Twin at left." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning shortly below the coulior's exit." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Booting up the final bit of Left Twin." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View south from Kendall Ridge." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skiing gloppy snow down to Kendall Peak Lakes." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/kendall_lefttwin13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Beneath the fog at Kendall Peak Lakes." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.marchpow
2013-04-12T12:45:00.000-07:00
2013-04-12T12:45:06.287-07:00
And that's a wrap, March 2013
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
Ringing-in the change of season as the last winter storms give way to the Seattle spring crapshoot. Not as many days out as hoped, but what was had was good. Quality, always. Here's to one last pow fix before the onset of corn season, and long live the <a href="ncheli/ncheli1.htm#ncheli2" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('ncheli/ncheli1.htm#ncheli2','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=820,height=700')">glory days</a> of March!
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<a href="uploaded_images/marchpow01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/marchpow01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The impressive East Face of Mount Sedgwick as seen from Porteau Cove early one morning in March." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/marchpow02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/marchpow02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First tracks down Whistler's Sun Bowl." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/marchpow03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/marchpow03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A cruise down Symphony Bowl all to ourselves." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/marchpow04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/marchpow04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Clocking-in at #4 on the final approach to Burnt Stew." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/marchpow05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/marchpow05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Flute Shoulder descent as seen from MY point of view..." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/marchpow06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/marchpow06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Even Flute Bowl gets tracked-out fast on days like these." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/marchpow07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/marchpow07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="It's not all fun and games in the Harmony lineup!" /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/marchpow08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/marchpow08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Enjoying a stash off the King on a warm, sunny day several days after the last snowfall." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/marchpow09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/marchpow09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Very reactive snowpack in Campbell Basin after a day and night of heavy snow and high winds." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/marchpow10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/marchpow10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Patience is rewarded with a break in the clouds and fresh tracks down Powder Bowl." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/alpyinapril01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/alpyinapril01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="One last pow fix in mid-April at Alpental." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/alpyinapril02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/alpyinapril02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Beer:30 on the second-to-last day of lift-served pow." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.westpoint
2013-05-10T12:21:00.000-07:00
2013-05-10T12:21:06.287-07:00
West Point kayaking, April 2013
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
The maiden voyage for our new Eddyline Whisper kayak – an after work paddle from Commodore Park to the West Point Lighthouse on a surprisingly balmy April evening. We enjoyed a relaxing sunset “dinner” on the north beach before paddling back by headlamp. Here’s to more kayak adventures this summer!
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<a href="uploaded_images/westpoint01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/westpoint01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First put-in for the new kayak at Commodore Park." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/westpoint02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/westpoint02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Paddling towards the West Point Lighthouse." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/westpoint03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/westpoint03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View of Mt. Rainier looking south from West Point." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/westpoint04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/westpoint04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The Eddyline Whisper with Shilshole Marina in distance." /></a>
<div style="clear:both; padding-bottom:0.25em">
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.urbanxc
2013-05-17T11:35:00.000-07:00
2013-05-17T11:35:06.287-07:00
"Urban" XC, April/May 2013
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
After months of neglect, it was time to rediscover my fondness for the singletrack and revisit a couple <i>Eastside</i> XC favorites. As low-commitment conditioning rides, the new-and-improved Tiger Mountain and Grand Ridge trails are ideal. No early wake-ups or long drive required, and just enough of an “out there” feel to justify the load of muddy laundry!
<br><br>
<a href="uploaded_images/grandridge01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/grandridge01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A muddy bend through the forest roughly halfway between I-90 and Duthie Hill." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/grandridge02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/grandridge02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Boardwalk over the marsh on Grand Ridge Trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tiger01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tiger01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mt. Rainier as seen from East Tiger Summit." /></a>
<br>
<a href="uploaded_images/tiger02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tiger02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The new machine-built East Tiger Summit Trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tiger03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tiger03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Typical view along the Preston Railroad and NW Timber trails." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tiger04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tiger04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A mossy tunnel towards the end of the NW Timber Trail." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.wt
2013-05-20T14:14:00.000-07:00
2013-05-20T14:14:06.287-07:00
Watson's Traverse, May 2013
<div style="clear:both;"></div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The NE side of Mount Baker as seen from high on Mount Shuksan. The latter potion of the traverse covers the high country visible just below the horizon at right." /><br /><br />
(words by <a href="http://www.turns-all-year.com/skiing_snowboarding/trip_reports/index.php?topic=28485.0" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('http://www.turns-all-year.com/skiing_snowboarding/trip_reports/index.php?topic=28485.0','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=1200,height=900')">Tom S.</a>) Sergio V. and I linked up for the Watson's Traverse this past weekend (05/04-06). We left late Saturday evening and approached to a camp at ~6400'. The next day we got a lazy start and were on the summit by 1:30. We wanted to ski the Park Headwall but it was covered in crusty mank so we dropped onto the upper Boulder and traversed around. We camped again in the flats before heading out to the Ski Area. The area between the Park Glacier and the Ski Area is incredibly scenic and a pleasure to explore. I had not been on that side of the mountain before and was glad to make this trip happen. It helped also that we were on a relaxed schedule and had plenty of time to savor the experience.
<br><br>
*Note that as of 05/14/13 the Glacier Creek Road has been closed due to a washout. See <a href="http://mtbakerguides.com/glacier-creek-road-closure/" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('http://mtbakerguides.com/glacier-creek-road-closure/','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=1000,height=800')">here</a> for details.
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<a href="uploaded_images/wt01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The late afternoon sun casts the slopes above Grouse Creek in a fiery orange hue." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Final moments of sunset before vanishing into the Pacific." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Ascending the Coleman Glacier with Colfax Peak visible right-of-center." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/wt04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Twin Sisters as seen trough a gap in the rocks on the edge of the Coleman." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching the Coleman-Demming Saddle with wind kicking-up on the summit plateau." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="It was a slow grind (for me) up from the saddle towards the Roman Wall." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/wt07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tom nears the top of the Roman Wall with a pair of climbers in hot pursuit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="North Cascades panorama from summit of Grant Peak." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tom skis the upper portion of Park Glacier, just below the headwall." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/wt10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skiing high on Park Glacier." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Taking in the scenery at about the halfway point on the Park." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Enjoyable corn snow on the Park." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/wt13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Nearing the end of a classic ski descent!" /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Making camp on the Park Glacier flats." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Evening views from camp looking NNE towards the border peaks and beyond." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/wt16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The following morning, looking forward to adventures that await." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt17.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Departing camp with The Portals South at left." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt18.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt18_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Taking in the view from high on Sholes Glacier." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/wt19.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt19_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tom traversing with Mount Shuksan towering overhead." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt20.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt20_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="No escape from the solar furnace near The Portals East." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/wt21.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt21_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Back in familiar territory with Coleman Pinnacle at right." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/wt22.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/wt22_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Nearing the end of the traverse with south-side of Table Mountain visible in background." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.disc
2013-06-12T12:21:00.000-07:00
2013-06-12T12:21:06.287-07:00
Discovery Island kayaking, May 2013
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
With other plans for a long weekend on Vancouver Island shelved due to the weather forecast, we decided to take advantage of the situation by spending an afternoon exploring the coastal waters near Victoria (BC). As a small marine Provincial Park just off the southeastern tip of Vancouver Island, Discovery Island and nearby Chatham Islands make for an enjoyable kayaking destination with abundant wildlife and expansive views across the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Olympic Mountains. We encountered some rough seas on the ~2 mile crossing to West Chatham and fought a strong current paddling around south shore of Discovery Island. But otherwise it was a relatively casual affair and well worth the effort especially if one happens to be in the area.
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<a href="uploaded_images/disc01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/disc01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Paddling out from Gyro Park towards the Chatham Islands and Discovery Island beyond." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/disc02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/disc02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The Great Cairn Builder at work on Chatham Island with Mount Angeles in distance." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/disc03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/disc03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Near Discovery Island with Strait of Juan de Fuca ahead." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/disc04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/disc04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Bald eagle on Discovery Island." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/disc05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/disc05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Clouds and float plane from a kayaker's perspective." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/disc06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/disc06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Small bay on West Chatham Island." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/disc07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/disc07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Concerned 'sea dogs' keeping an eye on us." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/disc10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/disc10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="No trip to Victoria (BC) is complete without a visiting the Butchart Gardens." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/disc09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/disc09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="More Butchart Gardens scenery." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/disc11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/disc11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Yours truly checking out the fountain at Butchart Gardens." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/disc08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/disc08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Cruise ships en route to Alaska as seen from the ferry back to Horseshoe Bay." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.ratpack
2013-06-19T12:21:00.000-07:00
2013-06-19T12:21:06.287-07:00
Rat Pack MTB, June 2013
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
Not much to report here other than my having spent an afternoon riding the newly restored downhill classic near Roslyn known as Rat Pack. Despite some difficulty locating the proper start on my first pass, I found it to be an enjoyable descent on smooth and twisty machine-built singletrack. The ride is littered with well-signed technical features, gap jumps and woodwork, most of which can be avoided by taking short bypass trails (sorry no photos). Perhaps the most noteworthy of the features are the countless steep roll-overs or "gravity wells" where a dropper seatpost comes particularly handy! The ride ends abruptly at what appears to be a small BMX jump park in Cle Elum. From there, only about two miles along the Coal Mines Trail completes the loop and where a visit to the Roslyn Brewery seems all but mandatory.
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<a href="uploaded_images/ratpack01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ratpack01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Ewok Trail - the initial part of the Rat Pack loop starting from Roslyn." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ratpack02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ratpack02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View north from crest of Main Ridge looking towards the Stuart Range." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ratpack03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ratpack03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The start of Rat Pack proper." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ratpack04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ratpack04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Cruiser XC trail towards the end of the ride." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.dumbell
2013-06-27T11:08:00.000-07:00
2013-06-27T11:08:06.287-07:00
Dumbell Mountain - South Face, June 2013
<div style="clear:both;"></div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Greenwood and Dumbell (left-to-right) as seen from Bonanza Peak." /><br /><br />
Rising at the head of Phelps Creek Valley, Dumbell Mountain along with <a href="2011_11_01_archive.asp#buck1" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('2011_11_01_archive.asp#buck1','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=1000,height=800')">Buck<a>, <a href="2012_09_01_archive.asp#fortress" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('2012_09_01_archive.asp#fortress','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=1000,height=800')">Fortress</a>, <a href="chiwawa/chiwawa1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('chiwawa/chiwawa1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=1000,height=800')">Chiwawa</a>, <a href="maude/maude2.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('maude/maude2.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=1000,height=800')">Maude</a>, <a href="maude/maude1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('maude/maude1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=1000,height=800')">Seven Fingered Jack</a> and Fernow is one of the more prominent peaks accessible from the Chiwawa River Road. Approached via the well-used Phelps Creek Trail, Dumbell is a worthy objective featuring minimal route finding challenges and a short but somewhat loose and exposed scramble along its South Face ramps and ledges. Combined with a camp at scenic Spider Meadow, the peak makes for a pleasant 1.5 day solo outing for those desiring some early-season solitude and an enjoyable mosquito-free alpine experience.
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<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Afternoon at a mostly snowbound Spider Meadow." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="My Spider Meadow camp, making the most of the only patch of dirt available." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Upper Phelps Creek basin the following morning." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View down towards Spider Meadow and Phelps Creek Valley from the approach to Dumbell Mountain." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking down the hidden gully that breaks cliffs guarding Dumbell's upper slopes." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking west from the upper slopes of Dumbell Mountain." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching the South Face of Dumbell." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The key ledge/ramp feature on the South Face." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama of Bonanza and much more from Dumbell summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama with Copper at far left and peaks of the DaKobed Range at right." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The view west with Buck Mountain at left and Chiwawa Mountain at center." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Black and white close-up of snow and ridges looking west towards glaciers of the DaKobed Range." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/dumbbell13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/dumbbell13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="First entry for 2013 in the now full summit register." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.daniel
2013-07-08T20:00:00.000-07:00
2013-07-08T20:00:06.287-07:00
Mount Daniel - Lynch Glacier ski, June 2013
<div style="clear:both;"></div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel_intro.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Daniel (left-of-center) as seen from Gunn Peak, with Mount Hinman at right. The summit of Merchant Peak lies in the foreground." /><br /><br />
Capitalizing on the longest day of the year, Franklin and I joined a mob 6-strong on a Summer Solstice ski tour of Mount Daniel. With an <i>O-dark:30</i> Seattle departure, we arrived at the Cathedral Pass Trailhead two-and-a-half hours later and proceeded to chase after our party about 20 minutes ahead of us. Sparing ourselves from repeatedly alternating between skis on/off, we hiked to the vicinity of Peggy’s Pond before donning skis for the Hyas Glacier ascent. Some more booting saw us around the south-side of Daniel’s East Summit, ending finally at the true (west) summit. A surprising amount of new snow graced the slopes above Peggy’s Pond and on the Lynch Glacier in particular, which given the time of year of course made for a mighty sticky descent to Pea Soup Lake. While Randy, Karla, Lindsey and me exited the lake stage right making our return via a traverse of Daniel Glacier, Franklin and another fellow peeled off to tag Dip Top. Another threesome whom we met earlier that day at the trailhead followed our tracks down the Lynch and proceeded to boot up nearby Lynch Peak for a bonus ski down from the summit. All told, Mt. Daniel makes for an ideal spring ski touring peak with an appealing mix of interesting scenery, long ski descents and relatively easy access.
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<a href="uploaded_images/daniel01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Taking in the scenery from the dusty trail beneath Cathedral Rock." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/daniel02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="In hot pursuit of the threesome ahead of us on Hyas Glacier." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/daniel03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning high on Hyas Glacier with yours truly bringing up the rear." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/daniel04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Wrapping around the south-side of Daniel's East Summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/daniel05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching the glacier saddle between East and West summits." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/daniel06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking back at members of our party traversing below the East Summit." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/daniel07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A party of three makes the final traverse to the West Summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/daniel08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Karla and Randy above the Lynch Glacier Headwall with Franklin standing on West Summit." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/daniel09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama from the true summit of Mount Daniel." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/daniel10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Boarding the headwall and almost losing it in the 'schrund." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/daniel11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Franklin making the sticky Lynch descent look better than it was!" /><a>
<a href="uploaded_images/daniel12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking up at Franklin skiing the Lynch Glacier." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/daniel13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Randy straight-lining gloppy snow on the lower Lynch." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/daniel14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View of our ski tracks from Pea Soup Lake." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/daniel15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Skinning across Pea Soup Lake." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/daniel16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Franklin and co. head off for Dip Top Peak." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/daniel17.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Randy leads the way back starting with a traverse of Daniel Glacier." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/daniel18.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/daniel18_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Randy skis down from the ridge for the final descent of the day into Hyas Glacier drainage." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.ruthicy
2013-08-01T21:44:00.000-07:00
2013-08-01T21:44:06.287-07:00
Ruth-Icy Traverse, June 2013
<div style="clear:both;"></div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy_intro.JPG" border="0" alt="Icy Peak with Cloudcap at right as seen from summit of Ruth Mountain." /><br /><br />
Punctuating the eastern terminus of Jagged Ridge, Cloudcap Peak (Seahpo) is an often overlooked satellite of majestic Mount Shuksan. But for those whom Cloudcap has captured the imagination, an adventure where the appeal may be more about the journey rather than the destination awaits. The approach entails going up and over scenic <a href="ruth/ruth1.htm" TARGET="NEW_WINDOW" onClick="MM_openBrWindow('ruth/ruth1.htm','NEW_WINDOW','scrollbars=yes,width=1000,height=800')">Ruth Mountain</a> and traversing Icy Peak’s northwest slopes en route to a breathtaking high camp at the saddle overlooking the headwaters of Nooksack River. With the awesome chaos of the Nooksack Glacier cirque to drown the senses, Beckey aptly describes this area as “…one of the alpine climaxes of The Cascades”. Adding it all up then, we have a climb to a seldom visited summit with uniquely dramatic scenery and the option of bagging the classic Ruth-Icy Traverse on the way. Sign me up!
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Alas, the Cloudcap climb evolved into a beast of a traverse via the ~2-mile long Jagged Ridge, linking-up the aforementioned objectives with the Mt. Baker ski resort. A thrilling enterprise for sure, the route is also significantly more involved and ultimately required a day more than what was planned for. Of my numerous concerns that afternoon on Cloudcap, I just couldn’t shake the wrath that would befall me for being a day overdue. And thus Mike C. and I bailed, freeing Tom S., Don B. and Franklin B. to savor the alpine nectar and bask in the glory of success. Hearing a faint “wahoo” over the roar of Nooksack Cirque from our Ruth-Icy saddle camp later that evening, I was relieved knowing the guys finally summited Cloudcap. Sipping the last of the whiskey, Mike and I raised a toast to our fellow alpinists wishing them a comfortable bivy, enough fuel to last an additional night on the ridge and a safe return home.
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<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Easy approach along the Hannegan Pass Trail." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking snow slopes towards Ruth Mountain." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tom points towards the following days' objectives (Cloudcap & Jagged Ridge)." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Descending from Ruth summit with Nooksack Glacier and Jagged Ridge in background." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="At the key bench between Ruth and Icy (Icy just beyond)." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Leaving Ruth (background) for Icy Peak." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="High on Icy's slopes with North Fork Nooksack River Valley far below." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching the main summit of Icy Peak." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Interesting and moderately exposed scrambling on Icy." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Franklin approaches the summit while Tom looks through the register." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Descending to camp at the Icy-Cloudcap Saddle." /><a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Mount Blum finally cast off the clounds by early evening." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Room with a view - the mighty Nooksack Glacier and Jagged Ridge behind." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching Cloudcap the following morning with Icy Peak in background." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tom nears the East Face of Cloudcap." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Heading up a snow arete on the approach to the East Face." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy17.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Afternoon panorama looking towards Ruth Mountain with unsettled weather beyond." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/ruthicy18.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/ruthicy18_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Cloudcap Peak to Nooksack Tower with the chaotic Nooksack Glacier in between." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.harbor_island
2013-09-16T16:04:00.000-07:00
2013-09-16T16:04:06.287-07:00
Harbor Island kayaking, June 2013
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We had a sunny Sunday afternoon in late June to burn and came up with this kayak loop at the south end of Elliot Bay to pass the time. The artificial ‘island’ at the mouth of the Duwamish Waterway known as Harbor Island makes for a short but enjoyable circumnavigation through the heart of the bustling Port of Seattle. We failed to locate the closer put-ins mentioned in the guide book and so started out from the boat launch at Alki Beach instead. Paddling along the island’s east-side was easily the highlight of the trip thanks to the enormous container cranes towering overhead on both sides of the channel – a place we dubbed "Valley of the Giraffes".
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<a href="uploaded_images/harbor_island01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/harbor_island01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Paddling along a boom near the west-side of Harbor Island with downtown Seattle in distance." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/harbor_island02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/harbor_island02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching the rail bridge over the Duwamish Canal." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/harbor_island03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/harbor_island03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="The 'Valley of the Giraffes' on east-side of Harbor Island." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/harbor_island04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/harbor_island04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Late afternoon on Elliot Bay with West Seattle in distance." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/harbor_island05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/harbor_island05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Sea Lion lounging on the West Seattle Buoy." /></a>
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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5114554408667422880.tft
2013-09-25T12:27:00.000-07:00
2013-09-25T12:27:06.287-07:00
Torment-Forbidden Traverse, July 2013
<div style="clear:both;"></div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft_intro_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Torment-Forbidden Traverse as seen from Johannesburg Mountain." /><br /><br />
Tod and I climbed the classic Torment-Forbidden traverse on what was forecasted to be a marginal weekend in early July. Yet despite some cloudiness, we were fortunate not to experience any precipitation and enjoyed great climbing conditions in somewhat cooler temperatures. The unavailability of camping permits in the Boston Basin alpine zone caused us to get a jump on the route with plans for overnighting somewhere in the Torment zone instead. Having made good progress up Torment, we decided to continue past the first camp opportunity high on Forbidden Glacier confident that we could make it to the next camp before dark. Thanks to the long days and continued speedy progress, we reached an incredible bivy at the route’s midpoint by dusk on our first day out. All that remained the following day was the remaining scramble to the West Ridge Notch and climb of Forbidden Peak.
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Beta on the TFT abounds, so I’ll simply point out that we avoided the infamous snow/ice traverse by making a single rappel down the south-side and climbing a gully back up to the crest. From here some exposed scrambling or a short bit of down-climbing on snow leads to the saddle on the east end of the aforementioned snow traverse. Lastly, the rappel line down the rib just (skier’s) right of the West Ridge Couloir makes for a much safer and worry-free alternative to rappelling and down-climbing the couloir itself. All told, I found the TFT a thoroughly enjoyable outing in a superb setting with what amounted to long sections of scrambling and some steep snow traversing bookended with short pitches of technical climbing on Torment and Forbidden proper.
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<a href="uploaded_images/tft01.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft01_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On the approach to Boston Basin with Torment-Forbidden Traverse area in clouds." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft02.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft02_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Hiking a trail in upper-Boston Basin." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft03.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft03_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Below Taboo Glacier looking towards the South Face of Mount Torment." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/tft04.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft04_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On the Taboo Glacier with Torment beyond." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft05.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft05_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Looking up the first pitch of Torment's South Ridge route." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft06.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft06_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Enjoyable climbing on South Ridge of Torment." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft07.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft07_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Approaching the crossover notch on Torment." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/tft08.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft08_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="View of Forbidden Peak from high on Torment." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft09.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft09_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Traversing slabs on south-side of Torment." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft10.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft10_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A long, overhanging rappel reaches the top of Forbidden Glacier." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft11.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft11_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Traversing the north-side of a tower with the snow/ice traverse section beyond." /><a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/tft12.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft12_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="At the saddle just before the snow traverse." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft13.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft13_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Preparing to rappel down the south-side in order to bypass the snow traverse." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft14.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft14_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Back up on the crest with a short snow down-climb to reach the next saddle." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft15.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft15_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Relaxing at the mid-point bivy with Johannesburg and Glacier Peak in distance." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/tft16.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft16_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="A spectacular sunset looking towards Eldorado Peak." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft17.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft17_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="On the move again the following morning." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft18.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft18_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="More fun scrambling on the latter half of the traverse." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/tft19.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft19_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Climbing a knife-edge ridge with Forbidden looming overhead." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft20.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft20_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Classic sidewalk-in-the-sky section of the ridge crest." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft21.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft21_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama looking north from ridge crest towards the Inspiration-Klawatti Icecap area." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft22.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft22_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Panorama looking WSW with Tod scrambling the final bit before the West Ridge Notch at far right." /></a>
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<a href="uploaded_images/tft23.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft23_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Climbing the West Ridge of Forbidden Peak." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft24.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft24_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Tod all smiles on the summit of Forbidden." /></a>
<a href="uploaded_images/tft25.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://sverdina.com/uploaded_images/tft25_sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Rappelling the rap-line just right of the West Ridge Coulior." /></a>
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