May 7, 2019, Mt. St. Helens via Swift Creek
5/7/19
WA Cascades West Slopes South (Mt Rainier)
1202
0
Myikat and I skied the Swift Creek route yesterday. We carried to about 5000', a bit past the sign saying "Climbing permits required above 4800 feet", and had straightforward skinning up the Swift Creek gully to switchbacks up the final face. It was a super-clear day, and nice downdrafts in the gully kept temps moderate. Caught 5 other skiers from Hood River on the crater rim when we arrived just before noon.
Shirtsleeve descent, with surface slides on the steeper side walls. There were good turns from 8-7000', but lower was mushy. Snow will be disappearing fast with these warm days, but the gully should hold snow a while longer.
141 TAY months for me.
Shirtsleeve descent, with surface slides on the steeper side walls. There were good turns from 8-7000', but lower was mushy. Snow will be disappearing fast with these warm days, but the gully should hold snow a while longer.
141 TAY months for me.
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