August 12, 2006, Van Trump Glacier, MRNP
8/12/06
WA Cascades West Slopes South (Mt Rainier)
2774
3
Wanting solitude rather than Muir, and not wanting to drive to Baker again, I opted to try Van Trump knowing it would be a bit sketchy. Left the Christina Falls TH at 9:00am. Comet Falls was spectacular as always, as were the wildflowers on the trail to Van Trump Park. Found snow at 7000' and climbed on to about 10,000' by 1pm. Saw a couple other hikers in route, bewildered of course at my carrying skis. When looking up at the remnants of Van Trump, have to admit I was a bit bewildered myself. Ran into a climbing party camped below Camp Hazard. Considered climbing higher on the Turtle, but the suncups there were a bit daunting. Did find continuous snow for a 2500' run (really), then a short carry for another 500' at the end. Pretty sketchy at the start, but nice enough below 9000'. On my hike out, I encountered numerous parties inquirying about my skis...so started envisioning the potential for a video interview of people on the trail, asking "what do you mean, did you forget your skis", or "where's your permit, you didn't know, this is a skiers only trail"! Lots of possibilities when left to the solo imagination. Back to the car by 4:30. A nice summer day ski.
author=Paul_Russell link=topic=5226.msg21966#msg21966 date=1155792053]...When looking up at the remnants of Van Trump, have to admit I was a bit bewildered myself.
Paul, what you experience is normal... i get that "bewildered" feeling all the time, especially walking around VA with skis.
nice photos, btw.
Here are few questions that I frequently want to ask the perplexed ??? public:
Did you forget your skis?
Is it really worth it to just go hiking?
Did you find dirt? Is there really dirt in MRNP?
Some people just don't know when to stay at home and watch football.
Did you forget your skis?
Is it really worth it to just go hiking?
Did you find dirt? Is there really dirt in MRNP?
Some people just don't know when to stay at home and watch football.
Nice pictures Paul! I think you should make that video - it would be hilarious!
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