June 2, 2002, Mt. Baker - Squak Glacier Route

Since our ascent of Baker via the Squak Glacier last year, my regular touring partner and I had discussed a 1 day ascent of Baker from the parking lot instead of an overnighter. With the high pressure system building in, we planned the trip about 1 week in advance. Not knowing what conditions were like, we really wanted the 3rd person for safety on the glacier so we contacted our other touring partner Scott to see if he was at all interested. He was, but not in doing a straight shot from the parking lot. Instead, he and Derek took off Saturday afternoon and camped just East of Crag View at 6,400 ft. Ben and I planned on meeting them at 5:30 or 6:00 am at their camp and continue on to the summit. Well, we got somewhat of a late start from Seattle. By the time we were 2.5 miles from the trailhead (due to snow coverage blocking access) it was 2:00 AM. We got our gear situated and left at 3:00 AM. Made it to the parking lot within 40 minutes and were at their camp at 6,400 ft. by 6:30 AM.

David Coleman