Shuksan in December/January

[Jarred_Jackman]

Anyone done Shuksan via the White Salmon Glacier, Shuksan Arm variation in the winter? I was on it this summer and there wasn't enough snow to cross the last bit of the arm without having to traverse much to low to make it worthwhile. Does anybody know if there is enough snow to make crossing the arm less of a time obstacle. I'm looking at leaving from the ski resort and crossing the arm, continuing through either Hell's Highway or the Hourglass. Info appreciated.

 

[Dru]

The entire White Salmon is apparently a popular ski route in winter according to local ski touring guidebooks. Sorry, can't help with approach via the Arm.

[bobinc]

It's straightforward to get over to the toe of the WS Glacier from the Mt Baker day lodge, especially when there is snow. Take the service road that goes into the woods from the lodge and more or less contour arounds through a couple of tree bands (probably 3/4 mile or so) and then head down and east, making one small ridge crossing to the toe of the WSG.

We did this approach 2 summers ago (after the big snow year) and I was amazed how easy it was (given the tales of awful brush). The ascent to the top of the Arm via the WS is very straightforward, and the skiing is excellent!