June 1, 2016, Washington Pass

A cloudy night prevented radiative cooling so the snow was fairly sloppy slush today, but I'm thankful my ski buddy Cliff's enthusiasm inspired me to free solo Early Winters Spire with him, a highly recommended side trip on the birthday tour, then skin to Blue Lake Peak col, down into Copper Creek, and out to the road hairpin turn from the col just north of Copper Peak. The route is skinable from Blue Lake parking lot which is not yet clear of snow.  The slide path closest to the spires requires some hiking but the next psth southwest is skinable. The route out to the hairpin is totally skiable with some care in route selection. Thanks to the nice Swedish senior sitter who belayed me down the crux 20' of the climb.  Not great snow but great fun with friends. The resident goat family provided entertainment.