Nug

Try the Mentasta Mountains (Alaska Range) - East of AK HWY 4 between Paxson and Delta Junction (AKA Big Delta). Park anywhere along the highway and head east. Near a military site called Black Rapids Training site (about 32 miles south of Delta Junction), try heading up one of the creeks like Gunnysack Creek or Upper Suzy Q to avoid the scrub alder then get out and gain any of the ridgelines that will get you onto moderate peaks in the area. A bit further south, Triangle Peak is a great two day trip. The Rainbow Mountains are still another great area to play around in. If the weather is good you will have great views of the Alaska Range (Mt. Hayes, Moffit, Shand), and you can link ridgleines to get from peak to peak (5000' to 8000') There are some more serious peaks in that area (Black Warrior, Silver Tip, Old Snowy, etc), and though there are glaciers, you can avoid them if you want to by staying on the ridgleines. This was my backyard for a couple of years and like everything else in Alaska it is an incredible area. You will need Bear protection.

Anyone interested in heading out to Smith next Thurs/Friday?

I am also looking for climbing partner(s). Recently transplanted from Alaska to Albany, OR (HELP). I am married with a 14 month old (which limits my availability a bit and tempers my ambitions in the hills somewhat). I am just looking to get out and climb anything. I have managed to get up Hood and Three Finger Jack and I have a bit of climbing experience from Alaska (Denali, Mt. Hayes, ice, trad). I am still relatively new to the sport and don't mind being a belay beotch, or long slogs, or short easy climbs, whatever - anything to get me out of the house. Can get out most Thur, Fri and Sat. Let me know. Classic alpine climbs this spring/summer would be great, as would ice this winter.

I am new the the Northwest and living in Albany, Oregon (help). Was living in Alaska for the past two years. Interested in rock, ice climing and mountaineering on moderate routes. Limited on experience. I am free on most Sun, Mon and Tues.