Hayley Sierra Posted July 16, 2009 Share Posted July 16, 2009 Trip: Fortress Mountain - SW route Date: 7/11/2009 Trip Report: Fortress Mountain 7/10-7/12 After turning back near the summit of Fortress’ SE route (4th class) a few weeks ago due to weather, I decided to give this peak another try. This time, we approached via the Buck Creek trail to climb the SW route (a class 2-3 scramble). The approach is 9 miles of mellow trail, although due to our late start (we left the trailhead at 6 pm), we got in the first 6.5 miles and decided to stop at a large horse camp in the forest for the night. The next day we soon found ourselves in a gorgeous high alpine meadow at the base of Fortress’ SW side. We ascended steep heather slopes to an upper basin (snow and rock) which allowed us to access the SW route. Avalanche lilies in the meadow. The SW scramble route. We covered the last couple thousand feet easily, encountering mostly class 2 terrrain up to the ridge. We then traversed the ridgeline to the summit, where we enjoyed views of Glacier Peak, Chiwawa, and the Entiat range. Chiwawa and the Entiat Mountains. Glacier Peak. We leisurely made our way back to camp, where we opted to stay an additional night in this wonderful location. This made the hike out the next day much more relaxing, and we made it back to the car just as it started raining. Good timing on the weather! Descending the meadows. Gear Notes: Helmet and ice axe Approach Notes: There are 4-5 avi debris fields across the Buck Creek trail, with many downed trees. Wouldn't want to attempt in the dark or when wet! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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