Leo

Was up there on an attempt July 4 weekend. Don't forget the crampons like we did - the approach chute is northwest-facing and solid hard ice. Consider taking a couple ice screws for pro as pickets would be nearly impossible to sink. Beautiful looking summit (from the bottom of the chute) in an awesome location. Also, the book calls for two ropes - not sure if you absolutely need. Have fun!

I'm an avid climber myself. In fact, one of the primary reasons Sacred Wilderness exists is to provide a more intentional and spiritual aspect to being in the alpine world. Longer term goals would be to have a climbing-focused set of Sacred Wilderness trips (think dharma talk at base camp before climbing and a post-climb yoga session), but we are starting with a wider cast of potential participants to get the community rolling. In addition to climbing, we've also been tossing around the idea of a fly fishing focused weekend. Welcome your input about more climbing-specific curriculum.

Sacred Wilderness is in its second year of community-driven transformational adventure. Would be great to have some CascadeClimbers join us for these backcountry journeys that emphasize wilderness activities as a means to explore body, mind and soul. Embracing the natural world as a place of wonder, awe and insight, participants are engaged in diverse array of outdoor experiences, including high alpine hiking, yoga, forest meditation, and wilderness art. The Sacred Wilderness experience draws from a wide variety of activities and each trip is centered on a particular theme. Exploring the natural world as a mirror for ourselves, this unique community experience teaches us to become more present in the moment, allowing our creative instincts to emerge through physical challenge and spiritual awakening. I invite you to get involved in this exciting new community endeavor, either as a participant, leader, or curriculum collaborator. We are in the growing stages and welcome everyone’s individual talents and inspiration. Full trip details are available at http://www.sacredwilderness.com. To reserve a spot, please email leo@sacredwilderness.com or call 206-683-6685. 2004 Experiences Sacred Wilderness: The Five Senses / July 23-25, 2004 / Central Cascades, Washington Gather in the Cascade mountain range where a cluster of alpine lakes will be the amphitheater for exploring each of the five senses – sight, sound, touch, smell, & taste. Sacred Wilderness: Thinking Like a Mountain / August 20-22, 2004 / North Cascades, Washington Join us for a high alpine community backpack through the dramatic North Cascades. Peering across jagged peaks and immense glaciers, we’ll contemplate the majesty of these mountains as metaphors for our minds. Sacred Wilderness: Transitions / September 24-26, 2004 / Goat Rocks Wilderness, Washington Usher in the change of the seasons and the golden splendors of fall colors as we venture out for a weekend of yoga, wilderness art, and community conversation. Upcoming Events Open House and Slide Show / 6 pm Friday, June 25 / Art of Wellness in Seattle Come learn more about the Sacred Wilderness community and upcoming trips! Introduction to Backpacking Class / 7-8:30 pm Friday, June 25 / Art of Wellness in Seattle This one-night workshop covers the skills essential to enjoying the wilderness backpacking experience and is intended to prepare inspired hikers for Sacred Wilderness. The course covers equipment, clothing, packing, and where to go.

I'd be up for a half day on the river - when/where are you thinking?

We attempted Sloan last year via Bedal Creek in mid-June. the trail has no river crossing and had been cleared the year before by a trail crew so there were only minor blow downs in route to base. We arrived at the basin below the peak within 2-3 hours and camped on an arm just below the massif. unfortunately we never got onto the corkscrew route due to getting about 6 inches of snow overnight. so, bedal creek is a longer but doable approach. Good luck!