November 19, 2005, Muir + Nisqually Chute

With guaranteed sunshine and dreams of perfect corn in the Nisqually Chute we made the 3 - 3.5hr drive to Paradise today. The objective was Muir  + Nisqually. Unfortunately skinning up to Muir Andy's binding started to pull out and after trying to tighten, he retreated to the parking lot making pturns for 3300'. His kind wife reluctantly went with him.

Aaron and I continued to Camp Muir. On the way we met Sam Avaiusini and at Camp Muir we met Hannah who was initially planning a solo summit climb up some absurd sounding route but decide to ski instead. After eating chocolate at C.M. Aaron and I headed to the Nisqually Chute. The snow on the snowfield was silky and nice, with occasional windlips to keep life interesting. At the entrance to the chute were several other parties and quite a few tracks. The snow was very soft, but was stable. I think the term glop and mank belong here -- the snow was the heaviest snow I've skied in at least 1 and a half years. Factoring in fatigue made skiing quite difficult.  It was still fun to ski it and the sublime views from inside the chute were a special treat to this Oregonian. Plus, after skiing that snow I'm more inclined to buy the Dynafit FR10s I've been lusting after.

I imagine we unknowingly crossed paths with many a TAYer. It was nice to meet everyone. If you dare, more photos can be viewed in this and