[TR] North Cascades - Sauk Mountain 12/30/2009

[Dallas kloke]

Trip: North Cascades - Sauk Mountain

 

Date: 12/30/2009

 

Trip Report:

Sauk Mtn. has good access, steep snow, several route possibilities and excellent views. No views on our trip. Kevin and I were able to drive about 5.5 miles on the road. We hiked another 2 miles to just below the summer parking area. The southwest flank slopes range from 40 to 55 degrees. The snow was powder about a foot and half deep with some sections of harder/icy snow. From the old lookout site, a traverse on the ridge is made to the summit. One 75 foot section is very exposed (250 foot drop on the left and 50 foot drop the right)with little snow and slippery rock. Time up 2 hours and 40 minutes.

On the descent, we made two 75 foot rappels to the north of our ascent route.

 

 

Gear Notes:

two tools, crampons, small rack, runners and rap slings.

 

Approach Notes:

The Sauk Mtn.Road had little snow but was very icy from the past two cold spells. Normally in winter, one can drove to the 3 or 4 mile mark.

[Trent]

Dallas: When are you going to take me up? I have built my alpine walker and am ready to roll!