June 24, 2006, Barrett Spur, Mt. Hood

Skied the north slope of Barrett Spur last weekend.  Hiked in on trail 631 and encountered moderate blowdown the first several miles.  Hit snow about a mile from Elk Cove.  Elk Cove was about 75% snow covered.  Booted up the east facing slope and then up onto Barrett Spur.  The snow off the summit is getting a little patchy so I started about 500 feet from the summit proper.  Great summer snow for about 700 feet, lightly snow cupped.  Then booted back up to the top of the East facing wall and skied about 900 feet down the the bottom of Elk Cove.  This slope has great coverage and also great summer snow.  Long hike back out but it was worth it.  It was a beautiful Saturday and I saw only two other hikers the whole time.