June 8, 2012, Rainier Muir snowfield sun and powder

Well, the upper 1000ft descent was sunshine & powder.  Then white out conditions made it hard to tell snow from cloud. Most of the route was fairly wind blown.  Fresh snow covered the rocks so I didn't have to take off my skis several times like earlier in the week.  It was a little colder as well on friday so  the snow didn't stick to my skins and I was warmer wearing an extra layer. It was even snowing at Paradise at 2pm, but I hadn't experienced any snowing all morning, in spite of the forecast.  Volunteer park ranger Cameron treated me to a well appreciated cup of hot chocolate on monday at camp Muir but he was gone on friday. I was glad to get an early 7am start so I could get up and ski down before conditions deteriorated.  I am learning the route to Muir and back can be quite nice in marginal weather, but I do carry a full pack in case I get caught overnight.  Will get pics next time. JR