I ended 2010 and started 2011 on my favorite mountain
Went up the winter route on Thursday Dec 30 with Indie Jack, Hengst Joe and John. There were other snowshoers as well as BC skiers. We headed up the right side of the Sid Davis drainage. Although the excellent track laid down by Scott2, Z-dude and George was gone
it was fun to break trail in new snow to the summit.
The ridge treated us to ice sculptures, icicles and cauliflower trees. We didn't linger long on top -- John's camera stopped working due to the very cold temperature. Headed to the hut for a quick lunch before starting back down. Before leaving, Indie Jack shoveled out the entrance so we could close the door -- there was at least a foot of new snow compared to Christmas day.
I came out again on New Year's eve and headed up with Karin and Lcpl Hughes (Don). I could tell early on that we were in for even colder temperatures due to the wind. As we headed up towards the Miller Saddle, one big gust (it sounded like a locomotive) gave us a painful ice facial. Our upward progress was impeded by periodically having to stop, crouch and brace ourselves so we wouldn't be knocked off our feet.
The ridge was especially challenging. We stayed towards the south side to (hopefully) get some protection from the trees -- don't know that this helped. Rather than approaching the summit mound from the east, we went up the south side to use it as a wind break. I literally crawled to the summit sign on my hands and knees. Karin's camera stopped working due to the sub zero temperatures created by the windchill, but Don managed to get a shot with Karin and I.
We didn't dally and headed down. The blowing snow and jacket hoods limited our vision, so it took a bit longer to find the hut. After refueling, we headed down and enjoyed a Sam Adams winterfest before departing.
On New Year's day, I drove out to join Sisters Sally and Robin (Rainboze). We were treated to sunny skies and warmer temperatures
As a result, we spent more time on the summit for pictures and videos. We found the hut without difficulty and enjoyed lunch and comaraderie before returning to the tram.
On Sunday (Jan 2), I came back out with Lance. The weather forecast predicted a 50% chance of snow (there are only a few friends that I will hike with when snow is predicted
The cloud covering over San Jacinto as we headed up brought to mind an erupting vulcano. We met Tyrus, Simon, Arturo and David in the boarding area
As we climbed out of Tamarack, the ridge and summit were covered with ominous-looking clouds. The ridge actually felt warmer than the climb up Miller Saddle. We made our way to the summit, quickly took the requisite photos, and headed to the hut for a snack. Visibility was decreasing by the minute as we made our way back to Miller saddle. It was a relief to get back into the trees at Tamarack. Snow flurries started as we chatted with RMRU Nick at the ranger station. Headed directly to the boarding area -- the snow started in earnest once we reached the deck.
Happy New Year and thank you to my San Jacinto and my tram family for a wonderful 2010 -- I look forward to seeing you in 2011.
From the heart,
Ellen
