January 2010 destinations

Enumclaw!

With a week, why not consider Sunrise area, snomo into White River CG and skin up. Set up a base at or near the lot...sourdoughs, freemont, dege...lots of options.

Thanks for the suggestions... I guess I wasn't specifically considering the cascades because it always seems that the end of January is a bit of a dry spell for us around here after the initial December dumps, but staying local definitely frees up more funds for motorized access, not to mention last minute flexibility. I personally have only ever dodged or cursed snowmos though, not used them, so that could be interesting...

There are a variety of ACC huts up in BC, some of which can be accessed relatively cheaply (many require helicopter access, so even if the hut is cheap the overall bill starts adding up...). Chic Scott's guidebook mentions a bunch. Seems like the Selkirks always have some good skiing in January. Depending on how you define "a day's drive," most of these might qualify.

Mazama.

Rent a snowmobile and hit H20 when it's closed...

Any pointers to folks who will rent 'biles for multiple day stretches?

Roger Pass. 9-11 hrs drive from Tacoma. BC Nirvana. Stay in Glacier Lodge.

Wallowas- OR- 9 hrs drive. Wing Ridge Hut can be rented I think.

Nelson Area- there is a hostel called the Dancing Bear, pretty cheap and you will dig Nelson- Hit Red Mountain and Whitewater- very cool ski area with extensive slackcountry access.

Schwietzer- Sandpoint is a nice town and touring around Schweitzer very under-rated IMO.

Elfin Lakes Hut- Near Squamish, BC- Hut is great, 5 miles ski in. Gargoyles and surrounding area very nice terrain although problems with vehicle break-ins at TH.