December 11, 2001, Cave Ridge, Snoqualmie Pass

Ron's experience on Sunday at Nordic Pass suggested that the Snoqualmie forest might already have enough snowpack for good skiing, and more new snow at low freezing levels convinced us to try this tour from the Alpental Road, into Commonwealth Basin, and up to Cave Ridge. We ascended on the west side of Commonwealth Creek, in a track nicely set by weekend snowshoers. The snow was 5-6 ft. deep in Commonwealth Basin. The disadvantage of following a snowshoe track became apparent on the climb up to Cave Ridge, with too many switchbacks to easily negotiate on our long skis, and as we climbed we were not encouraged about the prospects of descending the same route - too many little trees still showing between the big trees. After lunch and a warm-up run on Cave Ridge, we descended into Commonwealth Basin to the south of our ascent route, right under the cliffs of Guye Peak, and got some nice powder turns. Snowshoers had, unfortunately, trashed a couple of the best shots through the big old trees, but it was still an enjoyable descent. Everywhere the snow was cold and loose, with no evidence of any wind effects, and the only avalanche activity was a 6" deep loose sluff triggered on a very steep roll.

There are some photos from this trip here.

Charles