Something To Work Towards

We have been climbing Mt St Helens every year for a while now and today was permit day. We (Pam) were able to get permits for a winter route and a summer route.

Last year when a summer route would have been normal we did the winter route due to the weather being about a month behind. It is harder and also more interesting.

The point is that now we have 2 more things to work towards which usually adds to our weekend hike group as the folks that signed up for the climbs get their gear off the shelves and on their backs and come along.

Last year it took Pam and I 2 attempts to make the summit as the first attempt was rained - sleeted - low nasty clouded - out about 1/2 way up. The second attempt was worth the work of both as it was a picture perfect day on the mountain that day.

That was the view from the top that day. Mt Rainier is there waiting for you to get there on any clear day. You also get huge views of Mt Adams as you climb as well as Mt Hood to the south.

The views from the top on the summer route allows you to get past the snow cornices and look down in and see the steam vents.

I can't wait for both climbs.

More soon....