June 16, 2002, Mt. Adams

Party of three telemarkers made the trip down to Mt. Adams on Saturday for an early start on Sunday. With the fair weather report there were 30 parties registered to climb. Road was gated at the 500 spur at Morrison Cr. (el 4600') CG leaving an extra 3 mile approach. A clear 5 a.m. start via Suksdorf Ridge got us to 10600' just below Piker's Peak at 12:30. One of us continued on with boot crampons to the summit. The other two beat a slow retreat to 9200' with clouds and wind. Snow was icy crust, unbreakable to 9000'. Below, snow and weather improved markedly. Buttery corn on the Crescent Glacier descent route down to ~5800 and getting a little sloppy-grabby below. Coverage was good to the road end and beyond. Overall a very good (and tiring) day. There is enough (discontinuous) snow and debris on the gated section of road to keep it closed for a while yet. Call the RS for access updates.

T. Moate