February 9, 2003, Hogback Mtn.

Jill and I spent the evening in the camper at the base of the White Pass ski area, so it was a casual start.  Being about 3.5 hours from Seattle, White Pass is a real long day trip, so it's been a while since we've been there.  Bought a single ride ticket and took the quad for a quick 1500 vf pickup,love technology.  Headed out of the area along the ridge through the trees towards Hogback Mtn.  The touring was gradual with meadows and glades.  The wind was brisk as we approached the summit of Hogback on a wind crust surface.  The lower slopes had deep hoar which glistened in the sun.  From the summit we had great views of Rainier, Goat Rocks, St. Helens and Mt. Adams.  We descended the bowl towards Miriam Creek in dense powder which changed to unconsolidated powder as we dropped lower.  Dropped thru the trees and descended another steep bowl with a slight wind crust and decided to climb back out.  Regained the ridge and skied open glades in deep hoar crystals that shimmered as we descended back to the ski area.  The back country area is clearly visible from the ski area and is an easy day tour, especially if you buy a single ride ticket and save the energy for the bowls and glades.

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