Gearing up for the count down to Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams

5/7/16  Final on snow training in CO.

Billy, Derrill and I headed up to Berhoud Pass for our final on snow practice.  The weather didn’t look too promising so we thought Berthoud to be a better option than St. Mary’s due to a quicker escape plan.  We were able to get 400 ft of a 35-40 degree snow climb, even though the snow was soft and hadn’t hit a freeze overnight.  We topped out after each getting a chance to lead kicking steps in.  Our next intention was to summit Russell Peak, 12,300 ft.   We hit the base of Russell and the weather rolled in causing the peak to disappear in the clouds.  The wind had intensified.  We made the decision to turn around and head down.  A good thing, because not too much later we heard thunder.  We got down to the car just as lightening flashed and graupel pelted us.  Here are some pics from the day:

5/13/16  Departing day!

I am not very superstitious, however flying on Friday the 13th doesn’t sound so appealing.  I departed DIA early this morning with two checked bags loaded with gear and a carry-on expedition backpack.  The flying was smooth and on time.  

Mt Hood on descent into Portland

Billy is to join me on Monday morning, where I will pick him up at PDX.  I am in debate of what I should do on this down day.  I can hang out in Portland, visit one or many of the fine breweries in town, drive to the mountains and scope out our climb or head to the Pacific and take in the ocean scene.  What do you think is best?  The Portland weather is sunny and hot, 90 degrees.   I chose to head to the beach, Cannon Beach that is, where Goonies Never Die!

It was a misty maritime day.  Quite the contrast to hot Portland.  After some beach strolling, I returned inland to my hotel and to explore the southern suburbia during rush hour.  The next two days will be spent in class for some Mckenzie training.  I will have the opportunity for rest as well.  Next up date in a couple days.  Wish us good weather!