cameronius

Well.. actually now looks like I will be in California all of October and some of November so I'm flexible. I could head up on a weekday as well. What works for you?

Hi guys - I'm heading down to California for the second and third week of October and looking to climb Shasta via Avalanche Gulch if anyone is up for it. Could do one or two days, whatever works. I'm intermediate, comfortable on snow/ice, but always up to learn more. If anyone is interested or available, hit me up.

Thanks a lot for the advice. I really appreciate it. Just one final question if anyone is still checking this thread: Going up through the Pearly Gates chute looks pretty steep and since I'm not planning to bring ropes is this reasonable to attempt with axe/crampons in the winter and if not, is there an alternative route to the summit plateau?

Hey everyone, I'm heading to Portland in early December to attempt Mt. Hood via the South Route. I have winter experience in the NH White Mountains but this will be my first time to the Northwest and Mt. Hood and I'm hoping to make it a good one. I will be with a partner who also has winter experience. We're planning an alpine start to hit the top and get down before sunset (if possible). A few questions for anyone who has done Hood in early December or has something to share: 1. Will the mountain be crowded or will I be completely alone and kicking out the snow in Dec? 2. Do I need to be roped on a South Route attempt? I've gotten mixed reviews from different climbers and while I'm not planning on it, let me know if this is a bad plan. 3. Aside from the normal preparations for a winter/alpine ascent, is there anything unusual or important to know about Hood or the Cascades in December? My understanding is that rockfall is less likely but storms have a greater chance of mucking things up. Thanks everyone. I apologize if the questions seem naive, but better safe than sorry in my book.