3/4/10 Ruth Mountain

We did Ruth Mountain ski yesterday. The Hannigan pass road is clear to within about 3/4 mile of the trailhead where it's blocked by debris. Snow on trail with dry patches for the first mile. I would recommend sticking to the valley floor and making a direct ascent of Ruth. We didn't, going to Hannigan pass along the sidehill trail and the long ridge climb to summit. Multiple avalanch paths on trail. Made for a longer day. The ski from the summit was fantastic in 6-8" heavy powder with a solid base. Choose your line wisely and you will be rewarded with a hell of a ski. There are some shaky looking slopes that are easy to define and avoid. 9 hrs car to car.

Forgot the camera...sorry. It was a beautiful day and the views up there are some of the best in the Cascades.