Clubwide
Green
Drinks to flood program center
A flood of people
from the public and Mountaineers are expected to fill The Mountaineers Program
Center on Tue., May 11 at 5:30 p.m. for the monthly Green Drinks event. The
event allows envrronmentally-conscious groups to convene for an evening of
beverages and snacks. Hosts rotate from month to month. Visit
www.seattlegreendrinks.org for more information.
Board
of trustees to meet
The Mountaineers
Board of Trustees will meet Thu., May 6, at 7 p.m.
Meetings are at club headquarters and open to all. Meetings are held on the
first Thursday of each month.
Program
center to close for holiday
The Mountaineers
Program Center will be closed on Mon., May 31, to observe the Memorial Day
holiday.
Conservation
Conservation
calendar
May 19, Wed.
- Conservation Executive Committee
meeting, 7-9 p.m. at club headquarters. All Mountaineers are welcome.
June 2 & 5-6,
Wed. & Sat.-Sun. - Leave No Trace Trainer Course Upon course completion, graduates will be a
LNT certified trainer. Register online or by calling 206-521-6001. See Seattle
Branch Hiking, pg. 10
for more information.
Wanted:
members for issue alert e-list
Are you willing
to make a phone call, send an e-mail or write a letter to voice your opinion on
conservation and environmental issues? Then
sign up for our action alert e-mail list. We will send you our “Conservation
Currents” twice a month or when there is a need for action. E-mail
conservation@mountaineers.org to join.
International Outings
Chair:
Patti Polinsky, MeanySports@mac.com, 206-525-7464. The amount payable to The
Mountaineers is based upon known and anticipated air and land costs and is
subject to change, either UP or DOWN, in the event of unexpected adjustments
therein. Any exceptions to the travel or lodging arrangements must be approved
by the leaders.
The leader(s) or The Mountaineers reserve the right to cancel a trip or to
make changes in the itinerary; additional costs, if any, shall be paid by the
trip participants. The right is also reserved to exclude any person as a trip
member should such person’s health, mental condition, physical infirmity or
general deportment impede the operation of the trip or the rights or welfare
and enjoyment of other trip members; a refund of unused trip services will be
the limit of liability of The Mountaineers.
Cancellation: A full refund, less a $100 administration fee and less any
non-recoverable expenses, will be made. Cancellation notice must be in writing
and sent to trip leader via e-mail or postal service. See the individual trip
listing for cancellation deadlines.
Hike Iceland: land
of fire and ice
Three weeks: June 23-July 14, 2010
Iceland offers
many incredible opportunities for hiking. During our three-week tour, we will
encounter lava fields, steeply-walled sea fjords, incredibly rich farmland,
volcanoes, hot springs, geothermal areas and the world’s third largest icecap,
next to those of Antarctica and Greenland.
Our visit begins
with a night in a three-star hotel in the capital, Reykjavik, where we are transported
after landing at the Keflavik airport. The next day, we fly (included in trip
cost) northeast to Egilsstadir to begin a five-day hiking adventure across the
colorful Rhyolite Mountains, then descend to narrow valleys and mountain-ringed
fjords. After reaching a main road, we are transported back to Egilsstadir for
the night.
Heading south, we
take a few short hikes as we pass many small villages on the eastern fjords en
route to the vast Vatnajokull Glacier, the largest in Europe. Here we hike in the
area of the Glacial Lagoon, known as one of Iceland’s greatest natural wonders.
We spend several days in the area of Vatnojokull National Park, largest in Europe, primarily in Skaftafell, an ice-free portion of the
national park. We will hope to ascend an eye-catching peak, weather
permitting.
After four days
in the Vatnajokull/Skaftafell areas, we move on to the Laki area, visiting deep
canyons and waterfalls en route. Here we hike the mountains of the Laki crater
for the next several days, including the crossing of several rivers and the
Kambar Ridge while passing by the lakes of Kambavatn and Lambavatn. The Laki
fissure sits in lava fields, with arctic vegetation and strange rock
formations. This is the home to Iceland’s highest mountains.
Following our
four days in this area, we are transported to Thorsmork, a natural paradise of
geological wonders and unique Icelandic vistas. To arrive at our hiking
destination, we must use a 4x4 track over numerous glacial rivers without
bridges. Our final hiking days are spent along the south coast and in the hills
above, where we visit a geothermal area with bubbling clay hot pots and
hot-spring pools. We can perhaps take a bath in a hot river at Reykjadalur
before continuing on to the Nesjavellir geothermal plant.
Our final hiking
day features the classic Golden Circle, including a visit to Thingvellir
National Park, where the first open-air parliament met in the year 930, and
where, geologically, the North Atlantic and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
We’ll also see Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir hot spring, for which all geysers
are named. Our tour ends in Reykjavik for our final two nights. On our full day
in Reykjavik, before our flight home, we can tour the city or take a local bus
to many nearby attractions.
Cost: Trip price is $4,250 per person and includes
all accommodations (three nights in three-star hotels, three additional nights
in twin-rooms with private facilities, five nights in twin rooms with shared
facilities and eight nights in mountain huts), all meals, except during our
time in Reykjavik, one Icelandic mountain guide accompanying our group during
all travel periods, domestic flight from Reykjavik to Egilsstadir, all ground
transportation (except for our free day in Reykjavik), all gear transfers by a
4x4 Jeep (you carry only your daypack), entrance to the Blue Lagoon, leader
fare, administrative costs, guide tip and outing fee. Not included are
air-travel costs from Seattle to Reykjavik (estimated at $900 per person),
meals and entertainment the two days in Reykjavik, beverages and snacks ($150),
required travel/medical insurance ($60), and entrance to the Blue Lagoon ($25).
Price is based on an exchange rate of 120 ISK to $1 U.S.
Requirements: The trip is sponsored by the Seattle Branch
Hiking Committee, is moderate-strenuous in character, and is limited to 16
participants. Participants must be physically able to handle the trip
requirements. Sleeping bags (sleep sacks are often used in all types of Iceland
accommodations to minimize the cost of washing for hotels, guesthouses,
mountain huts and farm accommodations), wading shoes
and a valid passport are required. Walking sticks are strongly advised. A
deposit of $2,750 is required following leader approval. The remainder is due
by April 1.
For more information
and reservations: Contact
leaders Shari Hogshead and Paul Gauthier, skimntr@aol.com, 425-957-4548,
425-260-9316 (cell). We hope you can join us in Iceland this summer.
Færoe Islands
July 16-26, 2010
This trip offers
the experience of hotel-based hiking and wildlife viewing in the Færoe Islands.
We will spend 10 days hiking through some beautiful scenery as well as viewing
some fabulous birding cliffs from land and sea. The leaders, Bev Dahlin and
Steve Johnson, have been leading European mountain trips since 1990.
After an
overnight flight to Keflavik, Iceland, we will transfer to our hotel in
Reykjavik for a night before continuing on to the Færoe Islands. We will be
able to explore the beautiful capital city of Iceland. From the Færoese island
of Vagar, we’ll start our week in these remote islands exploring the rich bird
life on Mykines on foot and by boat. This island is well known for its puffins
and other seabirds.
Next will be a
visit to the village of Vestmanna and a boat tour to the Vestmanna
birdcliffs—sailing close along the coast and into grottoes. Hiking over the
mountains to the village of Tjørnuvík, traces of the Vikings will be seen. We
will bus to the northern islands through an undersea tunnel connecting Eysturoy
with the Northern Islands. From the village of Hvannasund we take a boat to the
highest promontory in the Færoes. From Tórshavn, the capital, we will boat to
the island of Suduroy, where we should encounter some storm petrels.
The trip will end
with us all flying back to Iceland for a last night in Reykjavik. It may be
possible to stop at the Blue Lagoon the next day for a dip in the thermal pool
on the way to the airport. Those wishing to continue discovering Europe after
the Færoe Islands will be able to make arrangements before leaving Seattle.
Trip price: $3,250 per person (double occupancy).
Includes: airfare from Reykjavik, Iceland, to the Færoe Islands and return,
ground transportation (boats, buses and airport transfers), hotels, breakfasts,
most dinners and box lunches, leader fare/transportation expenses, local
guides and administrative costs, outing fee and maps. Not included: round-trip
airfare between Seattle and Reykjavik, Iceland ($900-$1,100), meals in Iceland
and most beverages and snacks ($75 - $150), recommended trip cancellation
insurance ($75-$150).
Requirements: Trip limit will be a minimum of 10 and a
maximum of 14 Mountaineers. Sponsored by the Seattle Branch Naturalist
Committee, this trip is open to all current Mountaineers. Participants must be
physically able to handle the requirements of the trip. The overall trip is
classified as moderate. There will be several small-boat excursions. No cooking
gear, sleeping bags or tents will be necessary. A valid passport will be
required.
Reservations and
deposit: With leaders’
approval, $3,250 is necessary to reserve a space. Cancellation policy is a full
refund less a $100 International Outing administration fee plus any
non-recoverable expenses. Non-recoverable group expenses incurred due to
cancellations will be borne by all participants. To reserve your space, you
must contact the leaders, Bev Dahlin or Steve Johnson, 206-522-0113,
bevandsteve@hotmail.com.
Nepal: Dhaulagiri
trek
Sept.
30-Oct. 24, 2010
The Himalaya is
“a revelation of all might, majesty, dominion and power, henceforth, and
forever, in color, form, and substance indescribable.”
– Rudyard Kipling
This outing
combines spectacular mountain scenery, history, culture and diversity.
Until 1808
Ecuador’s Chimborazo was believed to be the highest mountain in the world. From
1808 to 1848, Dhaulagiri was thought to be the highest mountain in the world.
Between 1848 and 1852, it was Kanchenjunga. Since 1852, it has been Mt.
Everest. Dhaulagiri is now the seventh highest mountain in the world at 8,167
meters (26,795 ft.).
“Dhaulagiri”
means “white mountain” because of the continuous snow. Dhaulagiri is almost
unequaled on earth in its rise above local terrain—7,000 meters over the Kali
Gandaki Gorge in about 30 kilometers of horizontal distance. The Kali Gandaki
is especially dramatic since Dhaulagiri and Annapurna both stand near the
river, giving a unique example of two 8,000-meter peaks facing each other over
a deep valley.
In 1950, the
French, led by Maurice Herzog, trekked up the Kali Gandaki intent on climbing
Dhaulagiri from the west, but they found it too difficult and instead climbed
Annapurna on the east (the first summit of an 8,000-meter peak). Dhaulagiri’s
summit was finally reached in 1960 by a Swiss-Austrian expedition.
Our Dhaulagiri
trek is one of the finest and most scenic in all Nepal. Some people say this is
their favorite route in Nepal. It is like the Annapurna Circuit but without the
crowds. We will hike through many climatic, biologic and cultural zones; see
some of the highest mountains in the world; trek from about 4,000 ft. altitude
up to Dhaulagiri Base Camp and over French Pass at 17,585 feet; meet friendly
Nepali people; and visit Buddhist monasteries. This is a very strenuous hike
because of the altitude, but porters will haul your overnight gear, so you
carry only a daypack.
This is a good
time of year because there is usually excellent weather for views and
photography.
Itinerary: Fly from the U.S. to Singapore to Kathmandu.
Tour world heritage sites. Bus from
Kathmandu to Pokhara to Darbang. The Dhaulagiri trek (14 days) is rated
very strenuous, with two layover days and a high altitude of 17,585 ft. An
optional climb to Dhampus/Thapa Peak (19,719 ft.) will be offered. The leader
will environmentally clean the trail from the high pass down to Jomsom. Fly
from Jomsom to Pokhara. Sightsee in Pokhara and shop in markets. Optional extension to raft the Kali Gandaki River (not sponsored by
The Mountaineers). Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Fly from Kathmandu to
Singapore to USA.
For a daily
itinerary, please go to www.mountaineers.org/activities/nepal_itin.html.
Lodging: Hotels in Singapore, Kathmandu and
Pokhara. Camping tent on trek. Double
occupancy, with optional single supplement.
Food: Most meals are provided. They are a
nutritious variety of Nepali and Western cuisine. In Singapore and Kathmandu,
some meals are on your own to give you the freedom to explore the delicious
cuisines of Asia.
Limit: Minimum of two Mountaineers, maximum of 12
Mountaineers.
Leader: Craig Miller has led 11 different Himalayan
treks in the last 11 years for The Mountaineers (craigfmiller@comcast.net or
206-285-2399).
Price: The price includes almost everything:
roundtrip airfare from Seattle, Singapore hotels, Nepal visa, airport
transfers, Kathmandu hotels, buses, trek permit, ACAP fee, guide, porter, food,
tent, peak climbing fee, Pokhara hotels, domestic flight, Nepal departure tax,
two Singapore departure taxes, rescue insurance, The Mountaineers outing fee,
and a portion of leader cost. Price excludes your valid passport, medical
immunizations, some meals, personal items, and gratuities. Six or more people: $5,500, 3-5 people, $6,300, two people, $6,500.
Registration: Please download and complete the application
form on the web, then e-mail it to the leader. After the leader’s approval,
please telephone The Mountaineers; give them your credit card number and a
$2,000 deposit. After your deposit is received, the leader will send you a
series of three letters with information to help you prepare for this outing.
Your balance is due July 1.
Cancellation: If you cancel because of an emergency, you
may receive a refund less expenses incurred, and $100 administrative fee.
North American Outings
New England fall-color
adventure
Oct.
3-10, 2010
Trip preview: http://web.me.com/mrbunz/Site/2010-NEHike.html
Have you ever
seen the spectacular colors of maples paint the landscape of New England? If
you have not, join us for a moderate or strenuous hike under a canopy of fall
colors in the ancient Appalachian Mountains. The brilliantly jeweled, gold and
ruby ridges of the White Mountains will remain in your memory forever.
The Mountaineers
Recreational Properties Division offers an eight-day adventure through the
White Mountains of New Hampshire. Because we will be hiking between the
full-service huts and lodges of the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC), you will
not have to carry a sleeping bag or food, except for lunch.
Nate Shedd, an
AMC naturalist who hiked with us last year, will hike with us again. His
expertise will be the crowning jewel to this hiking adventure.
If you choose to
do the Presidential Traverse, most trails will be dotted with large rocks and
may include short stretches of scrambling. Or you may choose moderate hiking on
trails comparable to Northwest trails.
We will begin the
trip from Portland, Maine, taking an AMC van through the White Mountains of New
Hampshire. We will pass wooden covered bridges and whitewashed houses on our
drive to Highland Center at Crawford Notch. We will hike from Crawford Notch to
Franconia Notch on the Appalachian Trail.
While at Highland
Center, a multitude of conditioning hikes will be available, or you can choose
to play tourist and ride the train up Mt. Washington. Once on top of Mt.
Washington, where the country’s highest recorded winds have been recorded, one
can hike or ride the cog railroad down the other side of the mountain.
On Friday, after
a short hike from Greenleaf Hut, we will take the van to Cardigan Lodge, a
stately old whitewashed home in the New Hampshire Lakes Region. We guarantee
you will long remember Tom Fisher, Cardigan Lodge crew chief, and those
engaging ambassadors of New England’s oldest and largest version of The
Mountaineers.
There will be an
optional Adventure Day, including an art walk Friday night in Portland, Maine.
On Sat., Oct. 2, we can explore Peaks Island on bikes or foot and enjoy happy
hour at the home of the Ericksons, Mountaineers living on Peaks Island. We can
end the day with a Maine lobster dinner or other entree before taking the little
island-hopping ferry back to Portland.
Cost: Approx. $810 for land accommodations,
including all meals except one lunch, private bus transfer, transfers by AMC
and lodging in AMC lodges and mountain huts.
Lodging: Lodges
include linens and showers; huts offer bunkhouse accommodations where a
sleeping sheet is needed.
Requirements: Trip limits will be a minimum of 12 and a
maximum of 16—open to all Mountaineers. Participants must be able to hike
trails of at least moderate difficulty. Leader’s approval necessary.
The leader: Patti Polinsky, has
led numerous hiking, climbing and European trips for The Mountaineers. She has
led five fall-colors adventures. She is also the director of the Meany Lodge
Sports Center.
Reservations: A deposit of $400 per person is required to
reserve a space on the trip; balance due in full by June 1. In the event of
cancellation, non-recoverable group expenses incurred will be borne by the
canceling participant. If cancellation is made prior to June 1, full refund
will be made, less $100 plus any non-recoverable expenses. After June 1 there
will be a cancellation fee of $250 plus any non-recoverable expenses.
More details:
Contact the leader, Patti Polinsky,
MeanySports@mac.com, 206-525-7464.
Players
Theater
inspired by a magical place
Escape to the
Kitsap Forest Theater! Join us for a grand adventure as you stroll down the
forested trail to our unique and breathtaking theater. Create a treasured
family tradition! The Mountaineers Players are delighted to announce that the
Kitsap Forest Theater will be alive with “The Sound of Music” as our 87th
spring musical production. To round out our 2010 season, our summer-theater
goers will enjoy the popular musical, “Godspell.”
Rodgers &
Hammerstein’s “The Sound of Music” will be presented May 30-31 and the weekends
of June 5-6, 12-13 and 19-20 at 2 p.m. When Maria proves too high-spirited for
the religious life, she is dispatched to serve as governess for the seven
children of a widowed naval Captain. Her growing rapport with the youngsters,
coupled with her generosity of spirit, gradually captures the heart of the
stern Captain. The family’s narrow escape from the Nazis over the mountains to
Switzerland on the eve of World War II provides one of the most thrilling and
inspirational finales ever presented in the theater.
Famous songs
include: “Climb Every Mountain,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Edelweiss,” and “My Favorite
Things.” Experience the powerful retelling of this story of love and hope in
the midst of war and political upheaval in Austria during the 1930s.
Our resident
director, Craig Schieber, along with long-time choreographer, Guy Caridi, and
returning music director, Steve Wall, are directing a very talented cast of
actors. You won’t want to miss this marvelous show!
Salmon
dinner fundraiser
Join us on
Saturday evening, June 12 (after attending a performance of “The Sound of
Music”) for a delicious salmon dinner to be held under the firs at Kitsap
Cabin. Enjoy a fabulous meal with all the fixings, get to know other patrons of
the Players, and help support the 2010 play season at Kitsap Forest Theater. We
have a limited number of seats, so call your friends and make plans now to join
us for this special event. Tickets for the salmon dinner are $30 per person. Reservations are required. Tickets are available by calling
800-573-8484, visiting The Mountaineers Program Center or online at Brown Paper
Tickets (under Kitsap Forest Theater). Additional donations are cheerfully
accepted.
Summer
production: ‘Godspell’
“Godspell” will
be presented the weekends of July 31-Aug. 1, 7-8, 14-15 and 21-22 at 2 p.m.
Written as a jubilant celebration, “Godspell” tells the story of the birth of a
new community. The characters bring the parables of Matthew to life using song,
dance, and improvisational comedy while featuring an exhilarating score by
Stephen Schwartz (“Wicked”) which includes such songs as “Day By Day,” “Save
the People” and “All Good Gifts.” Overflowing with irrepressible energy, this
classic favorite will appeal to all with a message of hope that resonates just
as deeply as the music. Take a break and spend a summer day with us enjoying
this inspiring story.
Auditions: We are looking for enthusiastic men and women
to bring this inspiring show to life on the Kitsap Forest Theater stage this
summer—a perfect venue for this show. Auditions will be Tue., May 11, in
Seattle at 7 p.m. at TPS Black Box Theater in the Seattle Center House.
Callbacks will immediately follow at 8 p.m. Rehearsals will start on June 22
and continue throughout July. We are especially looking for some strong male
tenor singers.
Complete audition
information and rehearsal schedule can be found on our website
(www.foresttheater.com), including a character list. To sign up for an
audition, call 206-542-7815 or e-mail auditions@foresttheater.com with your
preferred time. Weeknight rehearsals are held in Seattle at The Mountaineers
Program Center and weekend rehearsals are at the theater outside of Bremerton.
Tickets
available
Tickets are
available for both shows online at www.ForestTheater.com, at The Mountaineers
Program Center (800-573-8484 and in person) and at Ted Brown Music, Silverdale,
and Liberty Bay Books, Poulsbo. Adult tickets are $14 presale and $16 at the
door. Youth tickets (age 6-18) are $8 presale and $10 at the door. Children 5
and under are free. Buy your tickets today, and save. Remember, you can
volunteer to help usher or park and see the show for free.
Help
wanted
We need help
building and painting sets, collecting props, cooking, ushering, parking and
working in concessions, etc. If you are interested in being involved in any way
with either or both shows, please contact co-producers Nancy Estill,
206-542-5993, nestill@u.washington.edu, or Gala
Lindvall, 206-542-4195, galabaskets@comcast.net. We would love your help! Visit
www.ForestTheater.com for more details.
Kitsap
Forest Theater Facebook page
You can now
follow us on Facebook (and Twitter!). Search for Kitsap Forest Theater and
become a fan. We are posting pictures and stories about the rehearsal process.
Follow our story and share our excitement!
BELLINGHAM
Branchwide
May
membership meeting
Join us in May
for our membership meeting. We will talk about the upcoming hiking programs.
Members and non-members are welcome. Visit our website for date, time and venue.
Climbing
Basic
climbs
June 12,
Sat. - Sharkfin Tower (BR) (USGS
Cascade Pass) Limit 6. Sign
up with leader: Ken Small, 360-527-3552, khs0337@comcast.net. Car camp Friday night. Registration opens 5/31.
Basic
Climbing Course
Attention,
students: Please reference
the course schedule and keep your eye on updates to help you succeed in the
course. Please remember to mark your 2010 calendar for all lectures and field
trips!
Upcoming Lectures
May 4, Tue. – Snow I lecture
May 8-9, Sat.
& Sun. - Snow I field trip
May 18,
Tue. - Glacier travel
lecture
May 20,
Thu. - Crevasse
rescue practice
May 22-23, Sat.
& Sun. - Glacier travel field trip
June 1,
Tue. - Exam evening
June 7-11,
Mon.-Fri. - Wilderness First Responder
,June 14-18, Mon.-Fri. - Wilderness First Responder
June 26, Sat. -
Hard snow field trip
Oct 12,
Tue. - Branch
Rendezvous (All are welcome!)
For more details,
see our branch website, “Courses” page.
Looking
ahead
Are you
interested in learning to climb and prefer a small, “family style” learning
environment? Think about achieving your climbing adventures with our branch. We
have a small student-instructor ratio and value a friendly learning environment
and enjoy multi-generational diversity. Watch for info. in
the fall for 2011 enrollments. We offer both Basic and Intermediate climbing
programs.
Instructors
needed
Are you a basic
grad from any Mountaineers climbing group, or an intermediate student who needs
credit for graduation? Don’t miss opportunities to volunteer with the
Bellingham Branch. Visit our website to view our basic course schedule and
fluff up your climbing resume! Contact Steve Glenn (see our “Courses” page on
the website) for details and to volunteer.
Hiking
May 8, Sat. -
Oyster Dome/N. Butte (M)
(Reference: Hiking Whatcom County) 8 mi., 2100’ gain, moderate pace. Meet at 9
a.m. at Cook Rd. exit on E. side P&R across from Starbucks. Sign up online;
leader permission required. Leader: JoAnne Weldon, 360-734-3935,
weldondonjo@aol.com.
June 26, Sat. -
Goat Mtn. Lookout Site (M) (Mt.
Shuksan USGS) 5 mi., 1500’ gain, moderate pace. Meet at 9 a.m. at Glacier
Public Service Center. We will possibly hike the ridge depending on everyone’s
energy level. Sign up online; leader permission required. Leader: JoAnne
Weldon. 360-734-3935, weldondonjo@aol.com.
July 31, Sat. -
Welcome Pass/Excelsior Ridge Traverse
(VS) (Mt. Baker, Mt. Shuksan USGS) 12 mi., 3700’ gain, moderate pace. Meet at
8:30 a.m. at the Glacier Public Service Center. Sign up online; leader
permission required. Leader: JoAnne Weldon, 360-734-3935, weldondonjo@aol.com.
Aug. 15, Sun. - Hannegan Peak (S) (Mt. Shuksan USGS) 9.5 mi., 3100’ gain, moderate
pace. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Glacier Public Service Center. Sign up online;
leader permission required. Leader: JoAnne Weldon, 360-734-3935,
weldondonjo@aol.com.
Sept. 11, Sat. -
Hidden Lake Peak Lookout (S)
(Cascade Pass 90-GT and Diablo Dam 48-GT), 8 mi., 3500’ gain, moderate pace.
Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the west side of bridge in Marblemount. Sign up online;
leader permission required. Leader: JoAnne Weldon, 360-734-3935,
weldondonjo@aol.com.
‘Get In
Shape’ hikes
Ready to knock off the winter rust? Jump into the “Get In
Shape” program! This series of hikes is designed to start with easier hikes and
gradually build over the summer to increasing levels of distance, elevation,
and sweat. Join us for some or all of them. All ages and body types are
welcome. Sign up online or e-mail LeaderWhisperer@hr-at-work.com.
Leader for Get In Shape trips: Molly Kaufmann (see
contact info in banner)
Trip 1: May 15,
Sat. - Lime Kiln Trail (E) (GT
Granite Falls No. 109) 7 mi., 600’ gain, moderate pace. Meet at 8 a.m. at I-5
exit 212 (Stanwood).
Trip 2: May 22,
Sat. - Wallace Falls (E) (GT
Index No. 142) 5.5 mi., 1200’ gain, moderate pace. Option to
add 1 mi. via loop if group desires. Meet at 7 a.m. at I-5, Exit 212
(Stanwood).
Trip 3: June 5,
Sat. - Fragrance Lake and Lost Lake
(M) (USGS Bellingham South) 10 mi., 1500’ gain, moderate pace. Meet at 8 a.m.
at Cost Cutters on E. Sunset Dr. or 7 a.m. at I-5, Exit 212 (Stanwood).
Trip 4 and beyond: Watch our website and the next Go Guide for upcoming trips.
EVERETT
Branchwide
Committee
leaders needed
We are in need of
talented volunteers to head our First Aid Committee and our general branch
programs.
These positions
are very rewarding, allowing the volunteer to help organize and steer these
programs into the future. Note that committee chairs generally oversee their
committee and do not have to volunteer as class leaders.
The First Aid
Committee encompasses MOFA, CPR, and other first-aid classes. The Programs
Committee chair helps recruit speakers for monthly
meetings and procures speakers for other branch-wide events.
If you’re
interested in volunteering as a leader or co-leader of the First Aid Committee,
or acting as an interim volunteer, contact the branch chair, Lorna Corrigan,
chair@everettmountaineers.org. If you’re interested in
heading our speaker programs, contact Evan Moses and Matt Vadnal at
programs@everettmountaineers.org.
Got web savvy? The Everett Mountaineers is redesigning its
website. If you have graphic or website authoring skills you can share, we
would welcome the help. Please e-mail webmaster@everettmountaineers.org to
find out more information.
Hook up
via meetup.com
The Everett
Mountaineers is pleased to welcome Meetup.com, an online social-group website
geared towards groups like the Everett Mountaineers and focusing on the growing
public interest in club and branch-level activities.
The Everett
Branch invites you to become a member at meetup.com/everett-mountaineers and
find out about activities for all, course offerings, trips
to the beach and fun hikes in the mountains. Many of these activities are free
to the public.
Alpine Scrambling
Please see
the website for a current list of alpine scrambles being offered.
Alpine
Scrambling Course
Remaining
field trips:
May 1-2,
Sat.-Sun. - Stevens Pass—Instructors Leader: Mike Mashock, 425-335-5174,
mjmash@comcast.net. (s11/19-4/30)
May 2, Sun. -
Cowboy Mtn, 5853’
Leader: Lyle Harvey, 425-337-4253, lyleharvey@waldimports.com. (s11/19-4/30)
May 15,
Sat. - Denny, 5520’ Leader: Carrie Strandell, 360-387-4605, wolf99@whidbey.net. (s11/19-5/14)
May 15, Sat. -
Guye Peak, 5168’ Leader: Mike Mashock, 425-335-5174, mjmash@comcast.net. (s11/19-5/14)
May 15, Sat. -
Kendall, 5784’ Leader: Brian Booth, 206-783-0409, bbooth626@yahoo.com. (s11/19-5/14)
May 15, Sat. -
Snoqualmie Mtn, 6278’ Leader: John Laggart, (360) 421-3527, jmnlaggart@msn.com.
(s11/19-5/14)
Climbing
Basic
Climbing Course
Remaining field trips:
May 1-2, Sat.-Sun.
- Stevens Pass Leader: Nicholas
Mayo, 360-568-7308, nicholas.e.mayo@gmail.com. (s5/1-5/1)
May 15-16,
Sat.-Sun. - Easton Glacier Leader:
Nicholas Mayo, 360-568-7308, nicholas.e.mayo@gmail.com. (s5/15-5/15)
Seminar:
May 15, Sat. -
Self Rescue III - Advanced Crevasse Rescue One-day small party crevasse rescue clinic. Last year we held it
at Stevens Pass. This year’s location is to be determined. Leader: Marcin
Porwit, 206-849-8373, mkporwit@porwit.net. (s4/1-5/1)
Intermediate
Climbing Course
Remaining
field trips:
May 1-2 Sat.-Sun.
- Vantage: Zig Zag Wall, Various & Sunshine Wall, Various Leader: Larry
Rafferty, 425-778-9685, LarryRafferty@hotmail.com.
May 22-23, Sat-Sun - Tieton: Royal Columns, Various Leader: Larry Rafferty, 425-778-9685, LarryRafferty@hotmail.com.
June 5-6,
Sat.-Sun. - Leavenworth, Icicle Canyon, Various Leader:
Larry Rafferty, 425-778-9685, LarryRafferty@hotmail.com. (s6/5-6/5)
Climbs
Please
see the website for a complete and updated list of coming climbs.
May 1-2, Sat.-Sun.
- Mt. Stuart, Ice Cliff Glacier
Limit 4 Meet 6 a.m. at Issaquah P&R. As the climb approaches and we get a
feel for the snow pack, avalanche conditions and so on, we may change the dates
(possibly April 24-25, May 1-2, 7-8, 15-16 and through first week of June). Preference given to Everett intermediate students. Sign up
with leader: Stephen Bobick, 425-653-5526, sbobick2@gmail.com. (s4/1-4/27)
May 29-31,
Sat.-Mon. - Glacier Peak, Disappointment Peak Limit 7. There are four spots reserved for Everett basic climbing
students only. Student sign up eligibility dependant on
passing final exam. This is a long strenuous trip starting at the Sloan
Creek CG with about 10,000’ of total gain and 34 mi. RT.Approximately 11 mi.
and 5000’ gain to campsite (6500’) on first day. Must be in
good shape to make this trip. Will be climbing the
Disappointment Peak Cleaver Route (GBG, page 97-98). Leader’s permission
required. Leader: Jack LaMont, 360-658-1870, mountaineeremails@verizon.net. (s4/26-5/25)
Hiking
Hiking
essentials seminar
May 24, Mon. -
Hike Essentials 6:30 p.m.
at Snohomish County PUD, 2320 California St., Everett. There is no cost
for this seminar. Membership is not required. This course is designed to answer
questions that a novice hiker or new Mountaineers member may have about how to
start hiking. Learn from experienced hikers what to put in your pack and how to
dress for comfort and safety. We will discuss clothing, boots, packs, the Ten
Essentials, seasonal trail hazards, where to shop for equipment and how to
research your trips. Registration is required for this seminar with a limit of
15. Members and non-members are asked to utilize the online registration
system. Leader: Ralph Sanders, 425-513-2683, summit2sea@mac.com. (s4/10-5/23)
Hikes
Please
see the website for a complete and updated list of hikes.
May 1, Sat. -
Hardy Canyon/Cleman Mtn. (M)
(Manastash Lake USGS) 9 mi., 2500’ gain. Limit 8. Meet at 5:30 a.m. at Ash Way
P&R. 2.5 hrs. A collection of deciduous aspen, birch and cottonwood
dominates this unique desert canyon, providing cover for a variety of birds
like ground-hugging grouse, trilling meadowlarks and western kingbirds. The
thick foliage provides shelter for rattlesnakes as well and food for critters. Plan for a dinner stop afterward in Ellensburg. Sign up with
leader: Bernadette Lamarca, 425-232-5751, mountain_babe@comcast.net. (s4/1-4/28)
Lookout/Trail Maintenance
Committee meetings: The Lookout and Trail Maintenance Committee meets on the third Wednesday
of each month at 7 p.m. (except in Nov., Dec., and Jan.) at the Snohomish
County East Administration Building, 3000 Rockefeller Ave., Everett, in Public
Meeting Room #1. Anyone interested in lookout or trail maintenance may attend.
For more details contact Forrest Clark, 425-487-3461, lotm@everettmountaineers.org.
Trail
work parties
Be
sure to check online for upcoming trail maintenance days, crew leader training,
National Trails Day evemts, and tool-sharpening days.
The following
trail-work parties will be held at Lord Hill Regional Park, 12921 150th St.
S.E., Snohomish. For further information or to participate, contact Forrest
Clark,
woodmanfor@aol.com.
May 8, Sat. - 8
a.m.-1 p.m. Crew Leader Workshop
May 15,
Sat. - 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Trail Maint.
Event 1
May 22,
Sat. - 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Trail Maint.
Event 2
June 5, Sat. - 8
a.m.-3 p.m. National TrailsDay Potluck/Barbecue following trail work, with a
special feature: a live bird-of-prey program.
July 10,
Sat. - 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Trail Maint.
Event 3
Aug. 28,
Sat. - 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Trail Maint.
Event 4
Sept. 11,
Sat. - 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Trail Maint.
Event 5
Nov. 6, Sat. - 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tool
Sharpening Workshop
Sea Kayaking
Sea Kayaking Committee: The committee normally meets at 7 p.m. the third Thursday
of the month. Contact Ginger Stackpole for place and directions.
Chair:
Ginger Stackpole, ginger.stackpole@gmail.com
Secretary: Vacant
Basic Class: Connie Campbell, kayakerconnie@gmail.com
Equivalency: Rob King, kingster619@hotmail.com
Leadership: Donna Garland, mtngirl3@comcast.net
Safety:
Steve Stackpole, steve_stackpole@yahoo.com
Social:
Wendi Hale, wendi@danielhale.net
Training: Connie Campbell, kayakerconnie@gmail.com
Treasurer: Mike Connor, wikiup@hughes.net
Trips:
Doug Garland, doug.home@comcast.net
Late Breaking Trip Announcements: Some trips may not make it into the Go Guide. We suggest searching
the online activities page:
http://imis.mountaineers.org/source/aTrips/Tripselection.cfm?section=events.
Equivalency: If you are interested in obtaining equivalency from Mountaineers’ Sea
Kayaking (Everett Branch), please contact Rob King (contact information above)
for an application. Equivalency usually takes 3-4 weeks to process after your
application is received. In order to receive equivalency, you must have taken a
fundamental sea kayaking course that teaches basics in such skills as paddling,
bracing, rescues, safety and clothing or have significant experience and
knowledge to demonstrate such skills. A demonstration paddle is required for
applicants whose skills or experience is not clear to the equivalency team.
Trips: Trips
are open to all Mountaineers who have graduated from any branch Basic Sea
Kayaking Course or have been granted equivalency. Sign up with the designated trip
leader unless otherwise indicated. The sea kayaking group follows the procedures
listed in the “Sending you on your way” section of this Go Guide (pg. 19) when signing up
through the program center. Please contact the leader as soon as possible to
cancel if you are unable to attend after signing up.
Sea
navigation class offered
May 18-June
6 - Sea Kayak Navigation Course. Bob Rock’s
Navigation for Sea Kayakers Course is a must for anyone thinking about becoming
a trip leader, or just wanting to take the next step following any Basic Sea
Kayaking Course. The class involves four 2-1/2 hr. classroom sessions (May 18,
20, 25, 27) and one mandatory paddle (June 5 or 6). Please e-mail Connie
Campbell for more information: kayakerconnie@gmail.com. Cost $130.
Trips
Please
see the website for a complete and updated list of sea kayak trips.
May 15, Sat. -
Chuckanut Bay (SKII+) About 8
nm. Please wear appropriate immersion clothing, bring a lunch and plenty of
water to drink. We plan to stop on Chuckanut Island for lunch and exploration.
To sign up and get launch details, contact leader: Robert King, 425-827-1955,
kingster619@hotmail.com. (s5/1-5/14)
June 6, Sun. -
Cornet Bay to Skagit Island (SKII+) 7-8 nm. This will be a moderate
student paddle out to Hope and Skagit Islands. Be prepared for some current and
wind. Bring water, snacks and a lunch. Wetsuit or dry-suit required. Contact
leader to sign up and get launch details. Leader’s permission required. Leader:
Steven Stackpole, 360-794-1736, steve_stackpole@yahoo.com. (s5/22-6/5)
FOOTHILLS
Branchwide
Message from the chair
The Foothills Branch winter
program has evolved into a very strong and committed group of instructors and
leaders. It is preparing for an even bigger and better program next season. In
the meantime, we are swinging into our spring programs.
The Foothills hiking program is
offering something new and exciting this year, the Pacific Crest Trail Series.
Additionally, sea kayaking will be a major activity this spring and in early
summer that is especially geared to students desiring complete this intense
course in one week while still meeting the standards to qualify for
Mountaineers paddles. Special opportunities are being developed for students of
other branch courses who were unable to complete the requirements and are wanting equivalence in order to paddle on Mountaineers
trips.
Dances, instruction and social
mix dances will be not be held during summer, but will resume in October, again
in the great ballroom of the South Bellevue Community Center and partnering
with Bellevue Parks and Recreation.
The next Foothills Branch meeting
(see details below) will feature a preview and slide show of the Pacific Crest
Trail.
Meeting location to change
The next Foothills Branch monthly
meeting will be Thu., April 29, at the Mercer Island
Community Center on Mercer Island. Doors will open at 6:45 p.m. for setup.
There will be no refreshments. Slides will show beautiful hikes and viewing
areas on the Pacific Crest Trail. Go to www.foothillsmountaineers.org for
directions to the center.
The Tue., May 25 branch meeting
will be held in a new location, the Mercer Slough Environmental Education
Center in Bellevue.
The May program will feature
Washington State Department of Transportation (WDOT) plans for the I-90
expansion at Snoqualmie Pass, with emphasis on the planned overpasses and
underpasses for migratory wildlife passage. WDOT gathered input from citizens,
agencies and many environmental and conservation organizations before
determining the final plans for an efficient interstate that incorporates
corridors for the critters that live along I-90.
Hiking
The
Foothills Hiking & Backpacking Committee provides hiking opportunities for
all Foothills Committees, including but not limited to hiking, singles, family
activities and naturalists.
Volunteers needed! Want
to help? We need volunteers to assist with trip scheduling, lead hikes and
participate in new hiker-orientation meetings.
Hiking Committee - Next
committee meeting is Mon., May 17, 7 p.m. at the Lake Hills Library. For more
info, contact chris.caviezel@gmail.com.
PCT Series Course
The Pacific Crest Trail Series is
designed to introduce Mountaineers members to sections of the Pacific Crest
Trail (PCT) that they might not otherwise get to hike. In particular, the PCT
Section from Green Pass to Stampede Pass is significantly under-used and in
need of conservation efforts.
This program is sponsored by the
Foothills Hiking Committee and program participants will have access to a
series of day hikes throughout the hiking season, starting in mid-July. In many
cases these will be point-to-point hikes. In some cases, a backpack may be
involved, or an overnight stay at a lodge such as The Mountaineers Meany Lodge.
Program participants will have
first choice on hikes offered. However, all Mountaineers members and guests
will have access to any available slots up to five days in advance.
Program participants will receive
awards based on unique miles hiked on the PCT in Washington state.
The awards are will be in 75-mi. increments. It is only expected that people
will be able to meet the first award in the first year. Our goal is to offer
100-125 unique miles of hikes/backpacks in the first year. Additional awards
are likely to require a multi-year commitment.
Our goal is to schedule a hike or
backpack on every weekend starting in mid-July and running through the end of
October. Hikes outside of those time frames will be “bonus” hikes. Only hikes
taken on a PCT Series hike are eligible for an award.
Up to two hikes can be deferred
to the following year to earn an award. There will be additional award levels
for hikers that participate in consecutive years. Some participants may be able
to hike the entire length of the PCT in Washington state
in about five years through this program.
Flexibility amongst both leaders
and participants is paramount, given the process for earning the award as well
as the tremendous amount of logistics that goes into planning hikes,
Program participants should be
able to comfortably do a 15-mi. hike with about 3000 ft. elevation gain by
mid-July. Actual hike distances and elevation gains will vary.
What to expect: Most participants will want to do a hike on Saturday,
car camp, and then do a hike in the same nearby area on Sunday. This method
would likely garner you an award in 3-4 weekends. You will likely spend a lot
of time driving on Forest Service roads to get to these trailheads. Due to the
logistics, you are likely going to meet at the designated P&R at 6 a.m. (or
earlier), and it is likely to take 3-4 hours to get to the trailhead and
arrange for car shuttles. Our goal is to be on the trail by 9 a.m. Even if
doing just a day hike, do not make plans for the evening after the hike. In
most cases, a dinner stop will occur on the way home.
How to enroll: You must be a Mountaineers member to enroll in this
program. An explanatory presentation is scheduled for April 29, 7 p.m. at the
Mercerview Community Center as part of the Foothills Mountaineers monthly
program. This is designed to answer all (well, at least most) of your
questions. Priority for enrollment will be given to those who attend the
presentation. Enrollment will begin at the completion of the program. If more
attendees are present than space available for the series, a lottery will
immediately be conducted. Enrollment is limited to 20 participants.
Course fee: $40. As with all club hikes, participants are
expected to pay the current carpool rate as established by The Mountaineers
Board of Directors. Due to the nature of this program, it will be desirable to
utilize AWD or 4WD drive vehicles as we will be spending a lot of time on
Forest Service roads. Accordingly, riders should be very respectful and
appreciative to the drivers and their vehicles.
Leaders: We have a few openings
left for leaders. Please contact Monty Pratt at the e-mail address below with a
letter of interest and your background. Thanks for your consideration!
Tentative
schedule:
April
29, Thu. - Informational session and
enrollment opens. 7 p.m. Mercerview. 8236 S.E. 24th
St., Mercer Island
May 17, Mon. - PCT Series hike
leaders meeting, 7 p.m. at Lake Hills Library, 15228 Lake Hills Blvd., Bellevue
June 21, Mon. - Participant
meeting and pizza feed. 7 p.m. at Mountaineers Program Center, 7700 Sand Point
Way N.E., Seattle
November – Exact date TBD. Awards
and potluck
For more about the PCT Series contact
Monty Pratt, westseattle207@yahoo.com.
Trailhead event; see pg. 1.
May 1, Sat -
Rattlesnake Traverse (S)
10.5 mi., 2600’ gain. Good traction would be helpful (e.g., Yaktraks,
stabilizers, micro-spikes, etc.) Leader: Lawrence Landauer, 425-844-4330, lawrenceglennlandauer@yahoo.com.
(s4/12-4/29)
May 5, Wed. -
Little Si (AHH) (EM)
5 mi., 1200’ gain. Drive I-90 to the town of North Bend and take Exit 31 into
town. Turn right on North bend Way. Just E. of town turn left
at the sign for Mt. Si Rd. (432nd S.E.). Go over a bridge and veer right
at the next intersection. Drive 1/4 mi. more to the new parking lot on the
left. We’ll meet at the stop sign just as you turn onto the frontage road
heading to the Tiger Mtn. parking lot on the S. side of Exit 20. The hike will
begin promptly at 4:30 p.m. Bring a headlamp or good flashlight and extra
batteries as there is a good chance we will return to the cars after dark.
Co-leader: Chris Caviezel. Leader: Monty Pratt, 206-718-8812,
westseattle207@yahoo.com. (s4/27-5/4)
May 16, Sun. -
Robinson Canyon/Ainsley Canyon (M)
10 mi., 1400’ gain. Meet at 8 a.m. at Hyak on Snoqualmie Pass where leader
lives. “Desert Hikes Washington” describes the entire area as a diverse
conglomeration of ecosystems. Thick forest on the north slopes with dramatic,
barren, basalt cliffs and sage on the south-facing slopes. When in season,
you’ll see a plethora of wildflowers on the meadows. We’ll attempt to identify
about 10-15 plants and a variety of birds. The emphasis on this trip will be the
hike, but we’ll take a few stops along the hike to appreciate the naturalist
world. Some people may meet at a TBD P&R at 7:15 a.m. or so. Leader: Chris
Caviezel, 425-434-0899, chris.caviezel@gmail.com. (s4/26-5/8)
May 19, Wed. -
Squak Mtn. (AHH) (MS) 8.5 mi.,
2500’ gain. We’ll meet at the stop sign just as you turn onto the frontage road
heading to the Tiger Mtn. parking lot on the S. side of Exit 20. We will be
hiking promptly at 4:30 p.m. Bring a headlamp or good flashlight and extra
batteries as there is a good chance we will return to the cars after dark.
Co-leader: Chris Caviezel. Leader: Monty Pratt, 206-718-8812,
westseattle207@yahoo.com. (s5/11-5/18)
May
21, Fri. - John Wayne Pioneer Trail
(E) 8 mi., No gain. Meet
at 8 a.m. at Preston P&R, Exit 22 from I-90. 1/2 hr. From the Rattlesnake
Lake TH we will hike up (E.) the John Wayne Trail until lunch. After lunch we
return to TH. View part of the train route that traveled over the Cascades to
Chicago. Leader: Fletcher Richardson, 425-432-0450, backcountryfletcher@comcast.net.
(s4/26-5/19)
May 22, Sat. -
White Bluffs, Hanford Reach N. Slope
(M) (Map N/A) 8 mi., 300’ gain. Moderate pace. We'll
attempt to identify about 10-15 plants, and a variety of birds. The emphasis on
this trip will be the hike, but we'll take a few stops along the hike to
appreciate the naturalist world. Leader: Chris Caviezel
chris.caviezel@gmail.com, 425-434-0899.
May 29, Sat. -
Yakima Rim Skyline Trail (N. End)
(M) 10 mi., 500’ gain. Meet at 8 a.m. at Hyak on Snoqualmie Pass where leader
lives. Leader: Chris Caviezel, 425-434-0899, chris.caviezel@gmail.com. (s5/17-5/28)
June 2, Wed. - Mt.
Si, Old Trail (S) (Mt Si NRCA; GT-206S) 6 mi.,
3400’ gain.: AHH We’ll meet at 4:30 p.m. at the stop sign just as you turn onto
the frontage road heading to the Tiger Mtn. parking lot on the S. side of Exit
20. We will be hiking promptly at 4:30 p.m. Bring a headlamp or good flashlight
and extra batteries as there is a good chance we will return to the cars after
dark. Co-leader: Chris Caviezel. Leader: Monty Pratt, 206-718-8812,
westseattle207@yahoo.com. (s5/25-6/1)
Photography
Chair: Dane Williams,
willida2@hotmail.com. Please e-mail if you have a question.
Get close: Let’s
have some fun with macro photography! If
you have an SLR, put on a macro lens or an extension tube and get up close.
Take some pictures of bugs or the insides of flowers just as hummingbirds would
see them. Or try to fool the viewers by taking pictures so close they can’t
tell what the subjects are. Most point-and-shoot cameras have a close-up
setting, so you can also take some amazing pictures with them.
Meeting: The
next meeting of the photo group will be Mon., May 10, at 7 p.m. at the Highland
Community Center, 14224 N.E. Bell-Red Rd., Bellevue. Bring those macro
pictures, or any other pictures that you want to show. At this meeting we will
also discuss macro photography techniques.
Now is the time of year to look for flower pictures. Next month our themes will be flowers, so plan ahead.
Skiing
May 1-2,
Sat.-Sun. - Mt. St. Helens (Mt.
St. Helens GT-364) 8 mi., 5700’ gain. Limit 9. Meet at 3 p.m. at Marble
Mountain Sno-Park. 4 hrs. We’ll camp Saturday night in
the meadow around 3500’. Permits are $22 and available at
www.active.com/framed/event_detail.cfm. Automobiles require a Washington
Sno-Park permit. Contact leader to sign up and for details: Fred Bumstead,
206-227-5276, frederichb@yahoo.com. (s3/15-4/26)
May 7, Fri. -
Yakima Peak (Chinook Pass USGS) 6 mi., 1500’
gain. Limit 6. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at Naches Pass parking area. MRNP Cayuse Pass
Loop and possible summit of Yakima Peak, exact mileage and elevation gain may
vary depending on conditions. Leader: James Greenleaf, 425-292-9110,
greenleaf.ja@gmail.com. (s4/26-5/5)
May 8, Sat. - Camp
Muir (Mt. Rainier E., GT-270) 9 mi.,
4600’ gain. Limit 9. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at Paradise parking lot. 2.5 hr. If
conditions preclude safe travel on the snowfield, we can go over and ski out
Mazama Ridge. Leader: Charles Cerveny, 206-525-6060, ccerveny@earthlink.net. (s4/3-5/6)
May
14-17, Fri.-Mon. - Three Sisters Wilderness
Limit 4. Conditions and leader’s choice
will determine ultimate destination, so mileage and gain may vary. We will
attempt the Sisters Marathon (traverse of North, Middle, and South Sister peaks
in one 24-hour period), a trip covering 16-18 mi. and approximately 9,500’ of
elevation gain/ loss. Participants must have mountaineering skills, Level 1
avalanche training, and be familiar with roped travel, ice-ax arrest, and
climbing with snow protection at a minimum. Proper fitness level required. AT,
telemark and split boards only. Contact leader via email with questions. Actual
dates may adjust slightly, depending on weather conditions. Leader’s permission
required. Leader: Edward Palushock, 206-223-5565, epalushock@alum.syracuse.edu.
(s4/8-4/30)
May 15, Sat. -
Tatoosh Range (Mt. Rainier E. GT-270) 8-12
mi., 4000-6000’ gain. Limit 6. Meet at 8 a.m. at Nirada Falls parking area. 2.5 hrs. A classic trip! If conditions warrant, we’ll make
multiple runs. We will ski the Castle Saddle area, weather permitting. Leader’s
permission required. Leader: Charles Mac Laren, 206-501-0929,
cmaclaren@msn.com. (s4/12-5/12)
May 31, Mon. -
Summerland (Mt. Rainier E. GT-270) 9 mi.,
3200’ gain. Limit 9. Meet at 5 a.m. at MRNP White River entrance. Leader: Brent
Grisim, 425-780-2945, thebwg1@yahoo.com. (s3/3-5/21)
June 2, Wed. -
Silver Peak (Snoqualmie Pass GT-207 ) 10 mi., 3000’ gain. Meet at 4 p.m. at Eastgate
P&R. 1 hr. Will leave from Lake Keechelus Sno-Park for an
evening ski trip to Silver Peak Bowl/Silver Peak. Typically by the first
week of June it’s possible to drive to Windy Pass and to usually step out of
the car and into your bindings. Leader: Randy Oakley, 425-736-6493,
randyoa@microsoft.com. (s5/1-5/31)
June 5, Sat. - Paradise Glacier (Mt. Rainier E. GT-270) 7 mi., 3400’ gain. Limit 6.
Meet at 6 a.m. at Grady Ave. P&R, Renton. 2.5 hr. Leave from MRNP Paradise
RS. Weather-dependent trip; hope for good corn snow. Alternative day: Su.,y 6/6. Leader: David Seman, 425-485-8019,
dave.seman@kpff.com. (s3/1-6/1)
KITSAP
Branchwide
Branch officers
Chair: Katha
Miller-Winder
Vice Chair: Mike
Raymond
Treasurer: Dianne
Moore
Secretary: Sue
Diesen
Board of Trustees Rep:
Jimmy James
Branch Trustee at Large: Greg
Thies
Branch Trustee at Large:
Tom Thrasher
General meetings, programs
On a quarterly basis the Kitsap
Mountaineers and their friends get together at 7 p.m. for a social time and an
interesting program at the Norm Dicks Government Center, 345 6th St.,
Bremerton. Parking in pay lots located on 5th St. or free on-street parking
along Pacific, 4th and 5th St. Watch for details as
the date approaches.
Executive
Committee meetings are held at Kitsap
Cabin on the last Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Members are welcome to
attend and observe.
Mountaineers logo clothing available
We offer vests, $22, and
t-shirts, $15, as well as baseball-style caps in olive green with a black
under-bill for $12. We have recently added logo-adorned whistles of metal. They
come in blue and cost $1. To purchase any of these items, send an e-mail to
branch@kitsapcabin.org.
Pizza and work party
Join us May 18 from 5:30-7 p.m.
where we’ll be taking on a few jobs supporting Kitsap Cabin and/or the
Rhododendron Preserve. We work for about 90 minutes and then order pizza. Details
on exact jobs will go out in branch mail as the date approaches.
Surveys
In an effort to better serve
branch membership, the Executive Committee is launching a series of short
surveys. Links to the surveys will be posted on the branch website as well as
being sent to all branch mail subscribers. Please take a few seconds to answer
the survey questions and help us improve our branch.
Bicycling
A helmet, spare tire, and rear
flashing lamp are required. Rain, not drizzle, cancels.
May
6, Thu. - Kitsap Loops 25-50 mi. 600-1650’ gain. Starting at Clear Creek
Skateboard Park, we will loop areas on the Kitsap Peninsula from 6-42 mi. Sign
up online or at meetup.com, Kitsap Outdoors. Meet 10 a.m. at Clear Creek
Skateboard Park. Leader: Doug Terry, 360-550-7911, doug@dougterry.net. (s4/20-5/5)
May
13, Thu. - Kitsap Loops See May 6. (s4/27-5/12)
May
18, Tue. - Kitsap Loops See May 6. (s5/1-5/17)
May 24, Mon. -
Kitsap Loops See May 6. (s5/5-5/23)
Climbing/Alpine Scramble
Chair: Mike Raymond,
360-437-9379, or mike-elaine@msn.com
Mountaineering Activity Planning: May 17, Mon. 7 p.m. at Silverdale Azteca.
Basic Climbing Course
May 1-2, Sat.-Sun.
- Mt. St. Helens training climb.
Basic climbs
Kitsap Basic Climbing Course
students and Kitsap intermediate students and leaders are given priority for
the following climbs. Registration opens to Kitsap climbers two weeks ahead of
all others who sign up. Climb leaders will expect personal communication from
those who sign up. Please call them if you are interested. Climbers must have
current Mountaineers climbing status and/or experience to join a climbing
party. For major climbs such as Mt. Hood, Mt. Rainier, Mt. Olympus, or Mt.
Baker, plan on attending a pre-climb meeting with the leader. Place and time
will be made available through the climb leader.
June 12-13,
Sat.-Sun. - Ingalls Peak (BR)
One climb each day. Three leaders, three students for each
climb.
June 18-21,
Fri.-Mon. - Mt. Rainier, Emmons Glacier
(BG) Four leaders, eight students.
June 26-27,
Sat.-Sun. - Mt. Baker, Easton Glacier
(BG) Four leaders, eight students.
July 24-25,
Sat.-Sun. - S. Early Winters Spire
(BR) One climb each day. Three leaders, three students for
each climb.
July 30-Aug. 2,
Fri.-Mon. - Mt. Rainier, Disappointment Cleaver Route (BG) Four leaders, eight students.
Sept. 4-5,
Sat.-Sun. - The Tooth, Snoqualmie Pass Area
(BR) One climb each day. Three leaders, three students for
each climb.
Club climbs
These climbs will sign up on a
first-come, first-served status. Kitsap Branch members will have a two-week
registration window ahead of all others who sign up. Those signing up have to
directly contact the climb leader. Prior experience and/or climbing status is required.
May 15-16,
Sat.-Sun. - The Brothers, Olympic Mountains
(BA)
Early July (exact
date TBD) - Mt. Constance, Olympic Mountains
(BA)
Early July (exact
date TBD) - Mt. Olympus, Olympic National Park (BG) 4-5 days.
Mid-July (exact
date TBD) - Mt. Anderson, Olympic National Park (BG) 4 days.
Late July (exact
date TBD) - Mt. Clark, Royal Basin, Olympic National Park (BR) 2-3 days.
Mid-August (exact
date TBD) - Other climbs scheduled through
climbers’ meeting input and requests.
Alpine Scrambles
Kitsap
alpine scrambling emphasizes non-technical climbs in the Olympic Range. Many
scrambles are described in the “Climber’s Guide to the Olympic Mountains,” by
Olympic Mountain Rescue. Equipment: Ten Essentials, ice ax, mountaineering
boots, and helmet are always required.
See
the branch calendar for scrambles scheduled after the deadline.
HARK (Hikes and Active Recreation for Kids)
Chair: Laura Rightmyer
lrightmyer@q.com
See the website for the most
current list of HARK hikes and activities. Children and families do not need to
be current Mountaineers members to enjoy HARK activities. HARK is supported by
generous grants through The Mountaineers Foundation and Mountain Hardwear.
May 16, Sun. -
Family Hike at Mima Mounds Hike
(amid wildflowers, hopefully) and ponder what may have caused these mysterious
grassy mounds near Olympia to appear. There are several theories but no clear
explanation. This is an easy hike, perfect for families. We will be carpooling
to site if possible. Contact leader to sign up and for directions. Leader:
Laura Rightmyer, lrightmyer@q.com, 360-830-0473.
Hike/Backpack/Snowshoe
Chair: John Howard
Hikes
May 2, Sun. -
Tubal Cain Plus (MS) (USGS or GT
Tyler Peak, CC Buckhorn Wilderness) 12 mi. RT, 2000’ gain. A moderate hike to
the site of a historic mine. Be sure to bring a light for an additional
half-mile hike to the end of the mine. Other options to
continue exploring up Tull Canyon. Sign up online or at meetup.com,
Kitsap Outdoors. Meet at 10 a.m. at Church of the Nazarene. Leader: Doug Terry,
360-550-7911, doug@dougterry.net. (s4/10-5/01) DHOP
25; OM 67
May
4, Tue. - Dosewallips Rd.
to Dosewallips Campground (M)
(GT#168 The Brothers, USGS Mt. Jupiter, The Brothers) 11 mi. 1000’ gain. Travel
along the old Dosewallips River Rd. from the washout at 9.2 mi., along a .72
mi. trail that skirts up and around the washout and then reconnects to the old
road. Continue traveling along this road which parallels the river path up to
the Dosewallips CG at 1540’. Good chance at seeing elk and other wildlife given
that the campground has been isolated from vehicle access. Great first-hand
visuals of last year’s fire damage inside the park. Sign up online or at
meetup.com, Kitsap Outdoors. Meet at 9 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene.
Doug Terry, 360-550-7911, doug@dougterry.net. (s4/15-5/3).
OM pg. 159
May 8, Sat. - Mt.
Townsend #835/839 (M) (GT-136
Tyler Peak, CC Buckhorn Wilderness, USGS Mt. Zion/Mt. Townsend) 6.6 mi. 2000’
gain. Starting on the Little Quilcene Trail #835, travel up to the intersection
of the Mt. Townsend trail #839. Continue on this trail up to the summit of Mt. Townsend.
On a clear day the views at the top are amazing. Sign up online. Meet at 8 a.m.
at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene. Dave Burdick, 360-779-9095,
davepoulsbo@aol.com. (s4/15-5/07). OM
71, 74.
May 10, Mon. -
Clear Creek Trail—Old Mill Park Loop
(E) Information on the Clear Creek Trail system can be found at
http://www.clearcreektrail.org/map.htm. Minimal distance and no elevation gain.
Enjoy an easy dog-friendly walk with our primary conservancy advocate, Katha,
and learn about the many conservancy opportunities in this area. In addition,
Katha has a wealth of knowledge about the Clear Creek Restoration Project under
Great Peninsula Conservancy. Sign up online or at meetup.com, Kitsap Outdoors.
Meet at Old Mill Park parking lot at 10 a.m. Leader: Katha Miller-Winder,
360-613-9776, kathaj@juno.com. (s5/1-5/9)
May 10, Mon. -
Lena Lake #810 (M) (USGS The Brothers) 6.4 mi. 1150’ gain. A
wandering hike through second-growth and old-growth forest while crossing
bubbling or invisible creeks. We will have lunch above a beautiful
55-acre lake. Sign up online or at meetup.com, Kitsap Outdoors. Meet 9 a.m. at
Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene. Leader: Doug Terry, 360-550-7911,
doug@dougterry.net. (s4/20-5/9) DHOP, 11 or OM, 96
May
18, Tue. - Staircase Spike
Camp CG / Flapjack Lake Trailhead.
(M) (USGS Mount Steel, CC Mt Skokomish-Lake Cushman) 7.2 mi. RT, 625’ gain. A stroll through the North Fork of the Skoke, possibly to Big Log
Camp. Meet 8:15 a.m. at Bremerton Airport. Doug Terry, 360-550-7911,
doug@dougterry.net (s05/01-5/17) DHOP 9; OM 109
May
20, Thu. – Clear Creek
Trail – Gateway Park Loop (E)
Information on the Clear Creek Trail System can be found at
http://www.clearcreektrail.org/map.htm. Minimal distance and no elevation gain.
Enjoy an easy dog-friendly walk with our primary conservancy advocate, Katha,
and learn about the many conservancy opportunities in this area. In addition,
Katha has a wealth of knowledge about the Clear Creek Restoration Project under
Great Peninsula Conservancy. Sign up online or at meetup.com, Kitsap Outdoors.
Meet at Gateway Park parking lot at 2 p.m. Leader: Katha Miller-Winder,
360-613-9776, kathaj@juno.com. (s5/20-5/19)
May 22, Sat. - Mt
Townsend #839 (M) (GT-136 Tyler Peak, CC
Buckhorn Wilderness) 8 mi. 2880’ gain. This hike is somewhat of a challenge but
worth it. On a clear day the views at the top are amazing. Hike up the
switchbacks through a nice forest of rhododendrons, through the forest, and
arrive at a steep subalpine meadow. The trail climbs above a waterfall on the
major tributary to Townsend Creek, then begins the
remaining two-dozen switchbacks to the summit. Sign up online or at meetup.com,
Kitsap Outdoors. Meet at 8 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene. Leader: Doug
Terry, 360-550-7911, doug@dougterry.net. (s5/1-5/21)
OM 74; DHOP 22
Hike with Great Peninsula Conservancy
May 15, Sat. -
Kitsap Cabin Property (E)
(USGS Wildcat Lake, USGS Bremerton W.) 4 mi., minimal gain. A
joint Great Peninsula Conservancy/Kitsap Branch hike on the Big Tree Trail on
The Mountaineers Foundation Property. Meet at the Kitsap Cabin at 8:45
a.m. Hike will be from 9 to 11 a.m., led by Kitsap County arborist Jim Trainer.
Sign up with Great Peninsula Conservancy, info@greatpeninsula.org,
360-373-3500.
Basic conditioning series
May 16, Sun. - Elwha
Loop (E) (USGS Hurricane Hill;
GT-134S Hurricane Ridge/Elwha N.) 5.7 mi. 400’ gain. Hike in the Elwha Valley
starting from Whiskey Bend, traveling to Humes Ranch up to the Long Ridge Trail
and then travel back via Krause Bottom and Goblin Gates. View some of the old
homesteads such as Michaels Ranch Cabin and other historic locations from the
Press Expedition along the way. Sign up online or at meetup.com, Kitsap
Outdoors. Meet at 8 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene. Leader: Dianne
Moore, 253-857-3030, diamor2005@msn.com. (s5/1-5/15)
OM #10, pg. 60
Alpine Conditioner Series
May 29, Sat. - Mt.
Rose (S) (USGS Mt. Skokomish; CC Mt.
Skokomish-Lake Cushman; GT Mount Steel) 6.4 mi. loop, 3500’ gain. This is
another hike in the alpinist conditioning series. A
strenuous, steep climb to the summit of Mt. Rose. Excellent views of
Lake Cushman and the surrounding peaks. Parking pass required. Sign up via the
internet. Meet at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene at 7:30 a.m. Leader: Mark
Thibault, 360-860-1037, mark.a.thibault@gmail.com. (s5/7-5/28)
DHOP 34.
Backpacks
May
29-31, Sat.-Mon. - Silver Lakes up Silver Creek from Tubal Cain TH (M) (USGS or GT Tyler Peak; CC Buckhorn Wilderness) 7
mi., 2100’ gain. Starting at the Tubal Cain TH (#840), head up Silver Creek to
Silver Lakes, the source of Silver Creek. Sign up online or at
meetup.com, Kitsap Outdoors. Meet at 8 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene.
Leader: Doug Terry, 360-550 7911, doug@dougterry.net. (s5/1-5/28)
DHOP 23
Photography
Chair: John Davis, jmdbwd@wavecable.com.
Do
you have great pictures of your last hike? Was the view from that summit
unbelievable? Have you shown people how much fun you have on your outings? The
Photography Committee wants to help. Send a few of your best photos to John
Davis and he’ll have them posted on the website for everyone to enjoy.
Sea Kayaking
Chair: Diane Hamerman,
dhamerman@comcast.net
Vice-Chair:
Volunteer needed
Treasurer: Rich
Weixler, Weixler@wavecable.com
Basic Course Training:
Violette Fitzgearald, violettefitzgerald@msn.com, 360-377-9670
Equivalency:
Volunteer needed
Secretary:
Volunteer needed
Pool Sessions: Derek
Zimmer, derek.w.zimmer@gmail.com
Meetings:
Meetings are for socializing, having fun with fellow paddlers and planning. If
interested in attending please call or e-mail Diane Hamerman, 360-782-1412,
dhamerman@comcast.net, for details. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Trips: Our trips are
listed on the activities page of The Mountaineers website,
www.mountaineers.org, and also announced by e-mail to Kitsap members. If you
would like to be included on our e-mail list, let Diane Hamerman know at
dhamerman@comcast.net. To sign up for a trip you must contact the leader listed
in the trip description. To participate in Mountaineers-sponsored kayak trips,
you must be a graduate of The Mountaineers Basic Sea Kayak Course (from any
branch) or have passed equivalency (see below).
Equivalency: Mountaineers members who have had kayak training and
paddling experience, yet have not completed a Mountaineers Basic Sea Kayaking
Course, may apply for equivalency. Contact the chair at dhamerman@comcast.net
for details. You should have taken a fundamental Basic Sea Kayaking Course that
teaches the basic skills, strokes, bracing, rescues, safety and clothing, and
be able to demonstrate your skills and abilities. There is a $20 processing
fee.
OLYMPIA
Branchwide
Membership info meeting
If you have any questions about
joining The Mountaineers, if you want a membership brochure sent to a friend,
or if you have moved and don’t want to miss an issue of the monthly Mountaineer and Go Guide,
send an e-mail to olymountaineers@gmail.com. Please include your mailing
address in any messages so that we can send you a membership packet.
New and prospective members are
invited to attend the monthly branch potluck/slideshow to meet local members
and learn more about the club. You may also contact one of the activity
coordinators listed in the Olympia section of the Go Guide
if you have questions about hiking, scrambling, climbing, kayaking,
conservation or any other branch activity.
Magazine deadline
Submissions for the monthly Go Guide,
listing branch outings and activities, are due by the fifth day of the prior
month. Please send input for the June 2010 issue no later than May 5 to Don Taylor,
6316 Tamoshan Dr. N.W., Olympia, WA 98502. Call 360-866-2262 (evenings) for
e-mail address or if you need help transmitting materials.
Olympia Branch Library
The library is located at Maxine
Dunkelman’s house, 5418 Lemon Rd. N.E. Contact Maxine, 360-352-5027,
maxdunk@comcast.net, if you’d like to come by to browse or check out books.
Feel free to drop off books at any time, either here or at Alpine Experience
(box behind the front counter). Books, DVDs and maps owned by the branch are
listed on the branch’s website.
Directions to Maxine’s: N. on
Sleater-Kinney; left (SW) on South Bay; right (N.) on Schinke; left (W.) on
46th; right on Lemon.
Branch officers meeting
The next monthly meeting of the
Olympia Branch Board will be held on Wed., May 12, from 6-8 p.m. at Alpine
Experience. The program will include a presentation on upcoming changes to The Mountaineer
and Go Guide. Note: Mountaineers Executive Director Martinique Grigg will
visit the Olympia Branch for the June 9 meeting at the Olympia Center. All
members are welcome.
Potluck/Adventure Presentation
Tue., May 4 -
Don’t Miss the Last Meeting of this Season! The
Outdoor Adventure Presentation will be provided by Dominique Bachelet who will
feature cycling adventures in France. How does one plan a trip to France?
Wineries or cathedrals, chateaux or sunflower fields, ocean view or mountain
passes? The choices are many. But nice B&Bs with
good “table d’hote” are essential. Dominique will show photos of places she
would love to go back to, memories of wonderful dining experiences, and places
far away from the tourist circuit. Join us for an hour of photos of France,
from the North Sea coast to the vineyards of Languedoc, with wonderful roads to
bike on and good places to stay.
Come to the Olympia Center on the
first Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. for a shared potluck and socializing hour,
followed by the Outdoor Adventure Presentation at 7 p.m. All members and anyone
interested in learning more about The Mountaineers are welcome. This is a great
opportunity to meet fellow Mountaineers, share ideas, learn about other
escapades and adventures, and connect with our great community of outdoor
enthusiasts.
The Olympia Center is located 222
Columbia St. N.W., Rooms 101-102. Bring A dish to share, your
own plate and flatware. A prize for the best dish will be awarded, plus
door prizes.
Attendees can check out a book
from Librarian Maxine Dunkelman at
the meeting. She will make available a selection of books; contact her if you
have special requests.
Note: The monthly potluck and Outdoor Adventure
Presentation will take a break for summer. The next one will be Sept. 1. For
more information about monthly meetings, contact the coordinator, Carolyn
Burreson, 360-705-2055.
Climbing
2010 Basic Climbing Course
Remaining field
trips:
June 1 - Z-Pulley Workshop,
Location TBD
June
5 - Glacier Travel, Mt. Rainier, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Apr. 26 – Rock: Warehouse Rock
Gym, from 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
May 1
- Rock: Fundamentals, Spire Rock from 8 a.m- 5 p.m.
May 15 - Rock; McCleary Cliffs (may
be a two-day weekend trip, depending on class size)
Beyond Basic Rock Course
Field Trips:
May 22, Sat. - Sport climbing at
Fossil Rock, Yelm, WA.
May 29, Sat. - Sport climbing at
Exit 38, North Bend, WA.
June 12, Sat. - Sport
climbing/crack climbing at Frenchman Coulee, George, WA.
June 19, Sat. - Crack climbing at
Royal Columns, Tieton River area.
First Aid
MOFA – summer 2010
Course chair: Eric
Quinn, traileq@urdo.com, 360-556-4969
Co-chair: Tom
Eckhout, teckhout@msn.com, 360-556-9898
Come prepared to have fun and be
challenged while learning mountaineering oriented first aid. This class offers
essential skills for those who enjoy climbing, hiking and other Mountaineers
activities.
We will be spending time outside,
rain or shine, so please come dressed to spend time outdoors. Bring your
daypack equipped for the trail. Include extra clothing, trekking poles, your
current first aid kit and the rest of your 10 Essentials. We have a lot of
material to cover, so the pace will be fast. The class will be more meaningful
if you have done the reading prior to class. Snacks and beverages will be
provided. Please bring a lunch to all weekend classes.
Graduation
requirements: Attend all classes, pass written
exams and practical scenarios, and assemble a full MOFA kit.
Prerequisites: CPR training no more than 12 months prior to the
first day of MOFA. Enrollment in Olympia Scrambling or Basic
Climbing Course for preferred registration through May 1.
Attendance at all classes is
mandatory.
Schedule:
June 7, Mon., 6:30 p.m., CPR
June 9, Wed., 6:30 p.m., Fire
Station #34
June 14, Mon., 6:30 p.m., Fire
Station #31
June 16, Wed., 6:30 p.m., Fire
Station #34
June 21, Mon., 6:30 p.m., Fire
Station #34
June 22, Wed., 6:30 p.m., Fire
Station #34
June 27, Sun., 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.,
Fire Station #31
Class location - two different
fire stations in Lacey: Station #34, 8407 Steilacoom Rd E. Lacey, WA 98513.
Directions from I-5: Exit 111, south on Marvin Road. Cross Pacific Ave. Turn
left (east) at 2nd traffic light onto Steilacoom Road East. 2nd
driveway on the right. Station #31, 1231 Franz Rd.
Lacey WA. Directions from I-5: Exit 109, west on Martin Way. Turn left (south) at the first light on College Rd. Continue to the
4th light. Turn left on Lacey Blvd. Cross Ruddel Rd. Make the next left
on Franz. Turn left into the fire station driveway just before the light at
Pacific.
Registration: The course fee is $80 for Mountaineers members; $100
for non-members. Olympia Scramble and Basic Climbing Course students will have
preferred registration until May; open registration will be available May 1-15.
Paid registration must be received by May 15. We cannot give refunds for
cancellations after May 15. Register on-line at
www.olympiamountaineers.org/courses.htm or by phone at 800-573-8484. Processing
fees may apply to refunds for online registration. The textbooks are included
in the cost: “Mountaineering First Aid,” 5th edition, and “American Red Cross
First Aid/CPR for Schools and Communities,” 3rd edition.
CPR Class
June 7, Mon.,
6:30-10 p.m. Location: Lacey Fire Station #34
(see above). This class is provided to help MOFA students meet the CPR
requirement. Students may also meet the CPR requirement by taking ARC or AHA
CPR courses within 12 months prior to the first day of MOFA and provide a copy
of the current card to the instructor.
Hiking
For
information on leading hikes and other hiking-related questions, please contact
one of the Hiking Committee co-chairs: Carla Jonientz, 360-359-8412,
carlajonientz@yahoo.com; Darlene Dickinson, 360-357-3527,
darlenedickinson@hotmail.com; Vera Sutton, 360-426-0231, vsutton@hctc.com.
Monthly hiking coordinators for the remainder of 2010 are: June, Darlene Dickinson; July, Eric Quinn; August, Mary
Jo Buza; September, Peta Henderson; October, Mary Jo Buza; November, Nancy
Lloyd; December, Eric Quinn.
Hikes
May
1, Sat. - Chehalis River Surge Plain Trail
(E) 8 mi. No map needed. The Chehalis
River Surge Plain Natural Area Preserve supports healthy Sitka spruce dominated
wetlands laced with saltwater influenced slough channels. We will walk from
Preachers Slough Rd. just S. of Montesano to the Blue Slough access along the
Chehalis River. The flat hike is on an old logging railroad bed. Sign up with
leader: Vera Sutton, 360-426-0231. vsutton@hctc.com.
May 8, Sat. - Mima
Falls Loop (E) (USGS Littlerock or DNR
Capitol State Forest, year 2002) 7 mi. 500’ gain. More
pleasant surprises just 15 mi. S. of Olympia. We’ll hike the “trail less
traveled” beneath the canopy and glide for miles along streams, meadows, ponds,
and small canyons to the falls, where we’ll lunch and explore before returning
via the shorter, more traveled route, along ponds and through some clear-cuts.
Sign up with hike leader, Allen Mote, 360-970-8943 (call 7-9 p.m.),
allenmote@gmail.com.
May 22, Sat. -
Rampart Ridge (EM) (GT-269 Mt. Rainier W.) 4-5
mi. depending on snow conditions. 1400’ gain. Loop if snow allows, otherwise up
and back. Mountaineers family hike,
especially for children, but anyone is welcome. Moderate/slow pace. Contact
hike leader Anne Whitney for meeting time and place, 360-753-6526,
alobe75290@aol.com.
May 23, Sun. -
Federation Forest State Park (E)
No map needed. 3 mi. with optional additional mileage.
The trail is off Hwy 410, 18 mi. E. of Enumclaw, alongside the White River. The
trail has many roots and can be muddy. Meet at Martin Way P&R at 7:45 a.m.
1-1/4 hr. Leader: Mary Snyder, 360-491-3018, marysbloomers@comcast.net.
May 29-31,
Sat.-Mon. - Enchanted Valley (S)
(CC Enchanted Valley-Skokomish) 26+ mi. 1300’ gain. Hike into the Quinault
River’s Enchanted Valley during spring, the best time to see the waterfalls
pouring off the northern cliffs of the valley. This is a pretty hike at a
classic time of year. We’ll likely hike all the way in on Saturday, spend the
day in the valley on Sunday and hike out on Monday. Contact Mike Kretzler,
360-866-4497, mkretzler@comcast.net.
Sea Kayaking
Co-Chairs: Ron
Jones, 360-359-3395; Henry Romer, 360-357-7638
Basic Course: Will
Greenough, 360-508-0456
Committee meetings are
held on the third Wednesday of each month, Sept. to May. This is where all of
the brainstorming and planning takes place. The committee plans the annual
basic kayak course, trips, special events, training and other fun activities.
We welcome your enthusiasm.
The
next meeting will be on May
19 at 5:30 p.m. at Alpine Experience.
Call Ron Jones, 360-359-3395, or check the Olympia Sea Kayaking community
section of The Mountaineers website, www.mountaineers.org, for details about
the committee.
On the web: To
improve communications among paddlers, we’ve developed an Olympia Sea Kayaking
section in the communities area of the main
Mountaineers website, www.mountaineers.org. Here you’ll find meeting minutes,
trip reports, photos, and much more. You’re going to like it. If you need help
getting in, call Tim Nagle, 360-561-5504 or Ron Jones, 360-359-3395.
Sea Kayak equivalency:
Mountaineers members with previous kayak training and experience, but who have
not completed a Mountaineers Sea Kayaking Course (offered in Olympia, Tacoma
and Seattle), are encouraged to apply. Olympia Branch members should contact
Steve Gorton, 360-866-2788, for an application. The process may take 3-6 weeks.
Trips, events
Trips are open to all Mountaineers
who have graduated from the basic course or been granted equivalency. Trips are
classified by the sea kayak (SK) rating system. Check with the trip leader to
see if the trip is right for you. Some trips are scheduled too late to make it
into the Go Guide, so also check The Mountaineers website
(www.mountaineers.org). If there is a particular trip you would like to see
offered, contact Tim Nagle, 360-561-5504, tnagle@stmartin.edu.
May 19-Sept. 8 -
Wednesday Evening Paddles (SK
II+/-) Normally, less than 6 nm. Come out after work on Wed. and get a little
on-the-water socializing, exercise, skills practice and therapy. These trips
are open to all kayak course graduates and equivalents. They are not structured
to qualify as an “experience paddle” for course graduation. No need to sign up;
just bring your boat, required gear and essentials, and be ready to launch at 6
p.m. from the boat ramp at Boston Harbor. Actual destination will be selected
by group consensus under leader direction/discretion. For more information,
contact Bob Burreson, 360-705-2055, cbburreson@q.com.
May 2, Sun. -
Ilwaco (SK IV) +/- 10 nm. The waters
just inside the Columbia River bar on the SW Washington coast are a great place
to experience the “roll and surge” of the Pacific Ocean without the stress of
punching out through a surf break. Do you need an opportunity to practice your
bracing and paddle handling skills? Are you a strong and confident paddler who
can take an active part in insuring a safe trip for all? Join us for some
dynamic paddling and exploring along the coastline of Cape Disappointment. For
more information or to sign up, contact Bob Burreson, 360-705-2055,
cbburreson@q.com.
May 23, Sun. -
Budd Inlet (SK II) (NOAA 18445, Page C or
Sea Trails 205) 9 nm. Launch at Boston Harbor, cross to Cooper Point, head S.,
re-cross the inlet via Olympia Shoals, eat lunch at
Indian Rd County Park. Then follow the shore back to Boston Harbor. The trip
qualifies for the South Sound Inlets Paddle Pin. If desired, we will take time
to practice kayak skills, including rescues. Meet at 8 a.m. Contact Jim Wilson,
360-357-3593.
May 29, Sat. -
Hammersley Inlet and Hope Island
(SK II+) 6 nm. Introduction to moving water. From the
launch ramp at Arcadia, we will paddle into the mouth of Hammersley Inlet on a strong ebb to learn about eddy lines. After lunch on Hope
Island, we will visit low-tide marine sights on a reef off Squaxin Island. This
is an experience paddle, suitable for this year’s basic course students.
Priority will be given to Olympia students. Immersion protection recommended,
but if you go in, we will pull you right out. Henry Romer, 360-357-7638,
hromer@aol.com.
June
4-6, Fri.-Sun. - Fort Stevens Coastal Paddling (SK III-IV) (NOAA Chart 18520) 12 nm. Weekend campout and surf/coastal
play on the northern Oregon coast. Depending on the surf conditions and
weather, there will be opportunities for surf play, coastal paddling and/or
estuary exploration. We have three campsites reserved for Friday and Saturday
at Ft. Stevens SP. Helmets and immersion gear required. Contact Will Greenough,
360-508-0456, kayakwill@yahoo.com, or Tim Burke, 360-866-4286,
tpnl@comcast.net.
July 17, Sat. -
Cooper Point-Arcadia Point (SK
II) (NOAA 18448 or Sea Trails 205) 9 nm. We’ll launch at about 10:30 a.m. near
the end of Cooper Point and cross over to Hunter Point. We’ll then head for the
W. side of Hope Island, where we’ll stop for lunch and learn something of the
history of Hope Island. From there, we’ll paddle over
to Arcadia Point. On the return, we’ll travel on the E. side of Hope Island
through Squaxin Passage and then directly over to Cooper Point for the pullout.
This trip is designed as an experience paddle for basic course graduates and
registration preference will be given to them. To register, contact Tim Burke,
360-866-4286, tpnl@comcast.net.
Midweek
trips. Are you on a non-standard work
schedule or no schedule at all? Want to paddle midweek? Let Henry know a date,
and he’ll see what can be done. Henry Romer, 360-357-7638.
Singles
Social
activities are organized for the enjoyment of all adult Mountaineers. Participating
in activities provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy our Northwest
outdoors, while getting acquainted with people who have similar interests.
Singles Coordinator:
Linda Hayes, lhayes1961@comcast.net
E-mail updates: The
Olympia Singles Yahoo group is a great way to learn about last-minute
activities and receive reminders of upcoming events. If you would like to be
invited to join the Olympia Mountaineers Singles Yahoo Group, ask to be invited
via e-mail to Linda at lhayes1961@comcast.net. Include a brief message that you
heard about the group from the Go
Guide.
Wilderness Skills
Wilderness Skills Course offered
Open to all—Mountaineers and the
general public—the Wilderness Skills Course is designed to prepare area outdoor
enthusiasts for hiking or backpacking in the forests and mountains and on the
trails of the Pacific Northwest. This course is also the foundation or required
prerequisite for the Alpine Scrambling and Basic Climbing Courses.
The Wilderness Skills Course
provides information and hands-on experience with the top twenty or more topics
considered important for safe adventures in the backcountry. The lectures are
intended for all audiences and include practical tips and personal experiences
to help you get started right, or to expand your outdoor abilities. The
lectures and interactive presentations include opportunities to learn and
practice wilderness skills, to examine an assortment of clothing and equipment,
and to enjoy visual presentations of recent trips through Washington’s breathtakingly
beautiful backcountry. Student participation and interaction are encouraged.
The course consists of four
evening presentations and one Outdoor Skills Workshop (field trip) to a local
park to practice the new skills.
Schedule:
May 5, Wed. - Lecture: Knowing
the essentials, clothing and equipment
The Ten Essentials, clothing,
boots and equipment for day hikes and overnight trips; examine traditional
clothing and equipment and the latest high-tech gear and low-tech alternatives.
Avoiding hazards and understanding weather for safe backcountry travel.
May 12, Wed. - Lecture: Knowing
how to prepare for the wilderness. Wilderness
Ethics/Leave No Trace; nutrition; physical conditioning, introduction to first
aid; preventing injuries and handling emergencies; staying healthy in the
hills.
May 19, Wed. - Lecture:
Navigation (map and compass). Introduction to
backcountry navigation provides hands-on instruction in map reading, using a
compass, navigating in the backcountry; terrain association; what to do if
lost; and how, when and where to use GPS.
May
22, Sat. - Outdoor Workshop: Learn and practice new skills. This field trip takes the students to a park to learn
and practice their new skills on an outdoor challenge course, where they learn
using the guided Discovery instructional method while becoming proficient with
the Ten Essentials.
May 26, Wed. - Lecture 4: Knowing
the Wilderness environment.
Introduction to backpacking and
other advanced backcountry skills; where to go and how to get to the great places
in the Pacific NW; packing your pack and organizing your next trip.
The successful graduate has
sufficient information and experience to participate in trips of one or more
days into the backcountry and to select the proper clothing, equipment and meals.
Graduates understand the physical and mental demands of backcountry travel and
are prepared for most emergencies. Graduates are often ready to plan and
organize their own trips. Graduates who want “more” may wish to join The
Mountaineers and enroll in the alpine scrambling, basic climbing or other
outdoor travel courses.
Course fee: $40 per person or $60 for a family of four. No cost
for current Mountaineers members.
Registration: Persons interested in participating will be able to
register on the first night of class, May 5, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Online registration may also be offered. Check the branch
website under Wilderness Skills Course description for details:
www.OlympiaMountaineers.org.
Times and
locations: Lectures are at the Knox
Administration Center at 1113 Legion Way S.E. in Olympia. They begin at 6:30
p.m. and last until roughly 9:15 p.m. The location for the May 22 Outdoor
Workshop will be a local park in the Olympia area, beginning at 8:30 a.m. and
lasting until 3:30 p.m.
Text: A student manual is available online at the Olympia
Branch website (see above) under Wilderness Skills Course description. For
students wishing to continue with other mountaineering courses, we recommend
purchasing “Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills,” published by The
Mountaineers (available at most book and outdoor stores).
Equipment: Students will need suitable hiking clothing and boots
for day hikes, a daypack and the Ten Essentials. An equipment list is
available.
For additional information on the
Wilderness Skills Course, visit the branch website,
www.olympiamountaineers.org, or contact the course leader, Jim French, jimfrenchwa@comcast.net.
SEATTLE
Branchwide
Information, new members meeting
The Seattle Branch new members’
meeting is held on the first Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at The
Mountaineers Program Center. The meeting gives new and prospective members an
overview of all the activities that the branch offers. Activity representatives
are also on hand to answer questions about particular programs and courses.
Alpine Scrambling
Website:
http://www.mountaineers.org/seattle/scramble
Committee Chair: Ed
Dominguez, 206-322-9343, edomino.ed@gmail.com
Course Attendance & Equivalency Questions: Deborah Walker, 206-285-8444, deborahw@eskimo.com
Workshop Questions:
Mary Panza, 206-236-8801, makinanoise@hotmail.com
Field Trip Questions:
Mike Sweeney, 425-417-3081, michael.m.sweeney@boeing.com
Leadership Questions & Advanced Scramble Course: Randy Nelson, 206-328-9465, grandjubile@usa.net
Winter Scramble Questions:
Johnny Jeans, 425-746-2328, jjmtnjoys@yahoo.com
Alpine
Scrambling Course
The Alpine Scrambling Course is
now underway. Watch the website and other notices this fall and winter for
announcement of the 2011 course. The course teaches skills used to reach
non-technical snow and rock summits. It involves off-trail travel on moderately
exposed rock and snow. It does not include roped climbing. The course will give
you access to hundreds of peaks in the Cascades and Olympics. The skills,
conditioning, gear, and experience you acquire will also serve you well should
you continue on to technical climbing courses.
Eastside workshops
(7-9:30 p.m. at a Redmond location):
May 3, Mon. - Rock Scrambling
Field trips
(students may pick one of the dates for each field trip):
April 24 or 25, Sat. or Sun. -
all-day snow field trip (additional dates available in conjunction with Seattle
Basic Alpine Climbing Course May 1 or May 9)
May 15 or 16, Sat. or Sun. -
all-day rock field trip
Jun. 5 or 6, Sat. or Sun. -
all-day scramble experience field trip
Note: Smaller class enrollment may cause some field trips
to be offered one day only.
See
www.mountaineers.org/seattle/scramble for current course information. If you
have questions, come to a new members’ presentation at club headquarters on May
5 or contact Mary Panza, makinanoise@hotmail.com.
Advanced
Scramble/Leadership
(Course #7866) The Advanced
Scrambling, Leadership Course is for experienced scramblers wanting to develop
advanced scrambling and leadership skills. The course is flexible and we expect
enrollees to provide input on what they want to learn. Students may enroll at
any time, but the course is open only to Mountaineers members and depends on an
interview with the course chair or Alpine Scrambling Committee chair.
Course summary
There are six independent
modules. We expect most students to take two years to develop the skills and
experience required to graduate from the course.
A) Rock and Snow
Protection: Rope protection techniques for
rock, hard snow, and ice. Emergency rope use, belayed lowering, and running
belays.
B) Winter
Scramble: Winter scrambling and emergency
bivouac techniques.
C) Avalanche: American Avalanche Association Level 1 training.
D) Hard Snow: Hard snow self-arrest. French
crampon and ice ax techniques. Emergency belay and
lowering methods.
E) Leadership
Training: Preparation to become a scramble
trip leader. Trip planning and scramble party management; safety and emergency
procedures.
F) Backcountry
Navigation: Route-finding, map-reading, and
GPS skills beyond the basic navigation course.
Fees: The complete course with all modules is $175.
Qualified members may take an individual module (except for the avalanche
modules) separately for $50.
Questions: Contact the course chair, Randy Nelson,
grandjubile@usa.net.
Alpine
First Aid Course
The Alpine First Aid (AFA) Course
is approved by the Seattle Climbing and Alpine Scramble committees as a means
for 2010 Basic Climbing and Alpine Scramble Course students to meet their
wilderness first aid requirement in lieu of a Mountaineers MOFA (Mountaineering
Oriented First Aid) Course. Due to the high number of participants in these
programs and limited availability of MOFA courses, the Alpine First Aid Course
is offered as an opportunity to complete the first aid requirement without
travelling or waiting an extra year to graduate. Basic climbing and alpine
scramble students are encouraged to register for and complete the AFA Course as
soon as their schedule allows.
The Alpine First Aid Course
consists of two parts:
AFA Wilderness
First Aid Course - taught by Remote
Medical International (RMI) at The Mountaineers Program Center in Magnuson
Park—a fee applies.
AFA
Scenarios – a hands-on practical session at
The Mountaineers Program Center to test your skills after completing the
Wilderness First Aid Course.
To complete the Alpine First Aid
Course, participants must complete both a Wilderness First Aid and a Scenarios
section. See the online activity listings for available dates. Individuals
interested in participating in the 2011 Seattle Basic Climbing or Alpine
Scramble courses are invited to take the Alpine First Aid Course at this time.
It will be accepted to fulfill the wilderness first aid requirement for these
courses in 2011.
Alpine Scrambling Committee
Alpine Scrambling Committee
meetings are held each month, September through May, at The Mountaineers
Program Center from 7 to 9 p.m., typically on the third Monday of the month. If
you have questions about the committee’s work or are interested in attending,
presenting an issue, or submitting an agenda item, contact the committee
co-chairs. The committee welcomes input from scramblers on how to improve the
alpine scrambling program. Send your ideas, suggestions, or complaints to the
committee co-chairs.
Trips
Alpine
scrambles are strenuous off-trail trips to a summit. Scrambles often travel
over snow and rock, and through brush. Most routes will cross some exposed areas. These trips are open only to Mountaineers
members who are Alpine Scrambling Course students or graduates, Basic Climbing
Course graduates, or those with alpine scrambling or basic climbing
equivalency.
Exploratory scrambles:
These trips investigate new scramble routes. Scrambling students are not
eligible to participate.
After Hours Scrambles
are denoted in the listing by “AHS.”
Registration procedures:
The preferred registration method is through the “Activity Search” area of
www.mountaineers.org. Before committing to a trip, please check the trip
details online. Contact the leader well before the trip if you have questions.
Difficulty
ratings: See “Sending you on your way,” pg.
19, for codes in parenthesis below.
Trailhead event; see pg. 1.
May
1, Sat. - Silver King
6998’ (2-2) (USGS Norse Peak, White River Park) 6 mi., 2800’ gain. Meet 8 a.m. Crystal Mtn Ski Area Chapel. Leader:
Michael Sweeney, 425-417-3081. (s4/19-4/29)
May
5, Wed. - Teneriffe/Serendipity Ridge
(AHS) 4797’ (4-3) (USGS Mt. Si) 11 mi., 4000’ gain. Meet 4:30 p.m. Exit 20 on I-90.
Leader: Richard Burt, 206-632-8117. (s4/25-5/4)
May 8, Sat. -
Denny 5520’ (2-3) (USGS Snoqualmie
Pass, Snoqualmie Pass GT-207) 6 mi., 2500’ gain. Meet 8 a.m. Snow Lk. TH.
Leader: Michael Sweeney, 425-417-3081. (s4/26-5/6)
May 8, Sat. - Baldy
(Easton) 5107’ (3-2) (USGS Kachess Lk.) 7
mi., 2800’ gain. Meet 8:15 a.m. Exit 70, N. side of I-90. Leader: Glen
Ferguson, 425-836-8650. (s4/26-5/6)
May
14, Fri. - May 16, Sun. - Gardner & N. Gardner 8897’ & 8956’ (5-4) (USGS Mazama, Midnight Mtn.,
Silver Star Mtn.) 28 mi., 8100’ gain.
Leader: Robert Brown, 360-658-4728. (s4/15-5/7)
May
19, Wed. - Denny (AHS)
5520’ (2-3) (USGS Snoqualmie Pass, Snoqualmie Pass GT-207) 6 mi., 2500’ gain. Meet 4:30 p.m. See leader notes. Leader: Robert Mac
Onie, 253-639-0698. (s5/10-5/18)
May
22, Sat. - Cowboy Mtn.
5853’ (2-2) (USGS Stevens Pass) 3 mi., 1800’ gain. Meet 8 a.m. Stevens Pass N. parking lot. Leader:
Michael Sweeney, 425-417-3081. (s5/10-5/19)
May 22, Sat. -
Guye Peak 5168’ (2-3) (USGS Snoqualmie
Pass) 5 mi., 2200’ gain. Meet 8:15 a.m. Alpental main parking. Leader: Glen
Ferguson, 425-836-8650. (s4/26-5/20)
May 23, Sun. -
Beginners’ Alpine Scrambling (Snow and Rock)
Did you ever want to see what this whole “Alpine
Scrambling” thing is about? See a peak with some snow on it, but not sure what
you’re getting into? Intrigued by that short rock section at the end of the
hike but not sure if you should try it? Maybe you just missed the enrollment
deadline for the full Alpine Scrambling Course and are still itching to get
started? This is your chance to learn and experience the basic skills of snow
and rock scrambling in a shorter and less intense format than the full course
the club usually offers. We’ll explore the basic skills of ice ax use, snow
travel, and rock climbing techniques in low-key settings at Stevens Pass and
Leavenworth. Participants should have some hiking experience, be reasonably
fit, and possess gear adequate for hiking in the Pacific Northwest. Ice ax and
helmets will be provided. More info will be forwarded out after signing up.
Course fees: $30 members, $40 non-members. For more details, contact program
coordinator Ken Hahn, kenh@mountaineers.org, 206-595-7237.
May
29, Sat. - Dickerman
5723’ (4-3) (USGS Bedal) 8 mi., 3800’ gain. Meet 8 a.m. Verlot RS. Leader: Michael Sweeney,
425-417-3081. (s5/17-5/27)
May 29, Sat. -
Kendall Peak (3-2) (USGS Chikamin Peak,
Snoqualmie Pass, Snoqualmie Pass GT-207) 10 mi., 2800’ gain. Meet 8:30 a.m. PCT
TH, Trail 2000. Leader: Glen Ferguson, 425-836-8650. (s4/15-5/27)
Backcountry Skiing
Committee Chair/Contact:
Cindy Hoover cyn@zipcon.com, 206-783-4032.
Join us: The
Backcountry Ski & Snowboard Committee invites skiers and snowboarders to
join in putting on a great ski and snowboard program. This is an opportunity to
meet other skiers and snowboarders, learn new skills, and update current ones
by helping in our education program. If interested in getting involved in any
way, please contact the chair, Cindy Hoover, 206-783-4032, cyn@zipcon.com.
Ski & Snowboard leaders wanted: If you don’t see a trip that you would like to go on,
or you know of areas to ski or snowboard that you would like to share with
others, then become a trip leader. We particularly
need leaders to lead easy and moderate-level Nordic (N-rated) or mountain
(M-rated) trips. The process for becoming a leader is not difficult, and you
will soon be out on the snow with new skiing and snowboarding friends. The
required leadership seminar, field trip and avalanche Level 1 training are
offered every winter. Prospective leaders who would like assistance can request
mentoring to help them get started. Interested skiers and snowboarders should
contact Cindy Hoover, cyn@zipcon.com, 206-783-4032, for more information or for
an application to become a trip leader.
Trips
Please check the website for
last-minute trip listings! There are frequently trips added throughout the
month.
May 2, Sun. -
Hidden Lakes Peak
(M2) (Cascade Pass GT-80). 8 mi., 3500’ gain. Meeting at
Ashway P&R at 6 a.m. No late sign ups. Snowboarders welcome! Limit
10. Leader: Hans Schneeberger 425.673.0589 or resuntqi@verizon.net. (s/4/19-4/30)
May 16, Sun.
- Fortune/Ingalls Bowls (M2)
(Mt. Stuart GT-209) 11 mi., 2950’ gain. Meet at the parking lot behind the
Issaquah P&R at 6:30 a.m. No late registration. Snowboarders welcome! Limit
10. Leader: Hans Schneeberger, 425-673-0589, resuntqi@verizon.net. (s/5/3-5/14)
Backpacking
Trailhead event; see pg. 1.
Backpacking course offered
May 5 & 12, Wed. - Backpacking Course This is a good course for those who are interested in
backpacking but haven’t tried it, or for those who’ve tried it a couple of
times but are looking to improve their knowledge. The course covers how to
select and properly pack your backpack, food/stoves and cooking, boots/socks
and hiking without blisters (or how to treat them if you get them),
tents/sleeping bags and how to be comfortable sleeping on the ground, leave no
trace camping (and how to answer the call of nature without any facilities),
clothing and layering, and much more. The class will be held on two Wednesday
evenings beginning at 7 p.m. at The Mountaineers Program Center in Magnuson
Park, Seattle. More details: Todd Mitchell, 206-297-7176,
toddbackpack@gmail.com. (s1/25-5/5)
Backpacks
May
15-16, Sat.-Sun. - Ancient & Dusty Lakes
(E) (Babcock Ridge USGS; DNR Moses Lake) 8 mi., 100’ gain. Limit 8. Meet at 7:30 a.m. at Preston P&R. A great and easy hike for wildflowers and interesting geology just
to the E. of the Columbia River in Eastern Washington and near Vantage.
Prepare to bring your own water as the lake water includes irrigation runoff.
We will go at a leisurely pace on trails into coulees that were formed by
erosion during the historic ice age glacial melt. We will backpack 3 mi. to
camp at Dusty Lake on Saturday night. On Sunday we will backpack out 5.5 mi. to
include a side trip to Ancient Lakes—probably without full packs. See
description in Desert Hikes of Washington guidebook. The total WDFW vehicle
permit and mileage fees will exceed $50. Register online or via program center.
Leader: Glen Strachan, glenshgi@msn.com, 425-869-8094 (s4/19-5/12)
May 15-16,
Sat.-Sun. - Ingalls Creek (M)
(GT-209 Mt. Stuart, GT-210 Liberty) 11 mi., 1200’ gain This
trail follows the creek through the Alpine Lakes Wilderness to a wonderful camp
near some falls. Opportunities for side-trips beyond camp.
This trip is designed for beginners and some loaner gear is available. Contact
leader for details: Ken Hahn kenh@mountaineers.org, 206-595-7237.
May 29-31,
Sat.-Mon. - Chelan Lakeshore Trail
(MS) 17.5 mi., 2000’ gain. Limit 8. Meet at 9:15 a.m. at Fields Point, Lake
Chelan. 3-1/2 hrs. Superb views of the lake,
mountains, waterfalls and spring flowers. Boat departs Field’s Point at 9:45
a.m. for the trailhead. Rattlesnakes can be found on the trail in the
midsummer. Trip requires about $50 in boat and parking fees which are the
participant’s responsibility. Please coordinate with leader concerning
logistics of getting to the meeting place and to sign up. Leader is not
directly familiar with the trail, so patience is appreciated. Leader: Dave
Purdon, 253-852-0255, dpurdon@earthlink.net. (s4/19-5/21)
Advance notice
July 3-5,
Sat.-Mon. - Heather Trail/Blackwall Peak, Manning Provincial Park, B.C., Canada (M) (Manning Park & Skagit Valley Recreation Area
topo; Manning Park 92H/2 topo) 17 mi., 1150’ gain in, 705’ gain out. Limit 8. A
premier, scenic early-summer or early-fall backpack through subalpine forests
and open meadows. Miles of colorful wildflowers. Wildlife viewing opportunities for birds, butterflies and all sizes
of mammals. Side-trip options to Three Brothers alpine
area, extension to Nicomen Ridge, or one-way via Bonnevier Trail, Camps at
Buckhorn, Kicking Horse and Nicomen Ridge. Photo-oriented backpack for
Mountaineers members only. Find park and trail info at
www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/ecmanning/heather.html (drop
heather.html for park map, trail report and front-country camping). Current
passport, Washington State enhanced driver’s license, or state enhanced ID card
is required. Backcountry camp fee: about $10/person. Car
camping recommended for Friday evening. Sign up with leader: Linda
Moore, 425-347-7650, abenteuerbc@yahoo.com. (s5/15-6/27)
Aug. 6-8,
Fri.-Sun. - Trophy Mountain Meadows/Skyline, Wells Gray Provincial. Park, BC., Canada (M)
(Topos: West Raft River 82 M/13, Wells Gray Prov Park) 10+ mi., 1000-2000+’
gain. Limit 8. Meet 8:30 a.m. at Trophy TH. Hike through beautiful subalpine
forest and pocket meadows, and emerge onto vast meadows and highlands dotted
with dozens of subalpine lakes and tarns among the Trophy Mountains. Base camp at Sheila Lake with explorations beyond. Park
info, trail updates, map, brochure:
www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/wg_tradd. Photo-oriented backpack. For Mountaineers members only. Sign up with Leader: Linda
Moore, 425-347-7650, abenteuerbc@yahoo.com. (s6/15-7/31)
Climbing
Web pages
The Climbing Committee’s website
can be found through The Mountaineers home page or directly at:
www.mountaineers.org/seattle/climbing.
Basic
Alpine Climbing Course
The 2010 Basic Alpine Climbing
Course is underway. Registration for the 2011 course will open up in the fall
of 2010.
The course is an intensive and
thorough program, training students to become competent climbing partners on
technical rock, snow, and glacier climbs in the Pacific Northwest. Skills and
experiences include belaying and rope handling, rappelling, Class 5 rock
climbing, snow/glacier climbing, basic technical rescue, first aid, map and
compass navigation (separate programs and prices), backcountry camping,
including snow camping, emergency survival skills, guidance on gear purchases
and conditioning, basic risk assessment, weather, avalanche assessment, and
more.
Students are trained to become
solid and competent participants in the realm of alpine climbing on rock and
glacier summits in the PNW.
Remaining field
trips
May 1 or May 9, Sat. or Sun. -
Snow travel and self-arrest practice. Plan on being in the
snow the entire day and getting very wet. Extra clothes to change into
during the day would be advised. Note that this is a combined field trip with
Seattle Alpine Scrambling Course students to be held at Snoqualmie and Stevens
Passes (see individual registration for specific locations for that date).
Refer to the basic student handbook for required reading and equipment. Leader:
May 1 and 9 - Mark Scheffer, mark_scheffer@yahoo.com, 425-444-5192.
Instructors and students sign up
online on The Mountaineers website: www.mountaineers.org. Log in and go to
“activity search.” Check “any date is fine,” and search for destination name:
“snow field trip.” (Instructor and student registration currently open and
closes at 5 p.m. on 5/5/10.
More information: mark_scheffer@yahoo.com, 360-805-6420.
Basic climbs
SIG = Small instructional group for
basic course.
May 1, Sat. -
Whitehorse Mtn., NW Shoulder (BA)
Limit 12. Leader’s permission required. Leader: Tom Nims, 360-805-1472,
Tom.Nims@gmail.com. (s4/26-4/29)
May 8, Sat. -
Whitehorse Mtn., NW Shoulder (BA)
Limit 9. Leader: Robert Brown, 360-658-4728, robertb.brown@seattle.gov. (s4/6-5/2)
May 9, Sun. -
Whitehorse Mtn., NW Shoulder (BA)
Limit 10. See basic guide for location of Whitehouse store on SR-530. Note that
this trip is nearly an 8500’ gain and a full, strenuous day. Although the pace
will be moderate, overall it is a long, strenuous trip. Leader is going for 7th
successful trip to top of Whitehorse. All six have been fun trips. Contact
assistant leader Brett Dyson, 206-527-9842, hhiking@hotmail.com, for
permission, climb details and carpool. NOTE: Anyone who is a strong skier and
wants to bring skis for approach should contact leader about that option.
Contact assistant leader if climb has space, but your desired category (RL or
student) is full, and we can shuffle folks around so you can go and get credit.
Leader’s permission required. Leader: Art Freeman, 206-525-4129,
artfreeman525@aol.com. (s5/3-5/6)
May 12, Wed. - The
Tooth, S. Face (BR) Limit 6.
Leader: Mark Scheffer, 360-805-6420, mark_scheffer@yahoo.com. (s4/19-5/10)
May 14, Fri. - The
Tooth, S. Face (BR) Limit 6.
Leader: Wesley Cooper, 206-229-4101, wcooper06@yahoo.com. (s5/3-5/13)
May
15-16, Sat.-Sun. - Little Tahoma, E. Shoulder
(BG) Limit 9. If White River
entrance is closed we will approach from Paradise. Leader’s permission required.
Leader: Karl Themer, 206-428-8207, europacan@yahoo.co.uk. (s5/3-5/10)
May
21-23, Fri.-Sun. - Little Tahoma, E. Shoulder
(BG) Limit 12. Going up to
leave bread crumbs to follow for DM & Co. Leader: Ed Greutert,
206-230-8215, egreutert@hotmail.com. (s5/1-5/19)
May 22, Sat. -
Dragontail Peak, Colchuck Col (BA)
Limit 12. More details to come Leader’s permission required. Leader: Colt
DeWolf, 206-352-9113, colt0045@gmail.com. (s5/10-5/17)
May 22, Sat. -
Unicorn Peak, S. Side (BA)
(Mt. Rainier E. 270-GT) Limit 8. Come prepared for a rock climb. Bring
crampons. Leader: Timothy Williams, 206-235-6402, mtnrtimmy@clearwire.net. (s5/11-5/20)
May
22-23, Sat.-Sun. - Wedge Mtn., W. Ridge
(BG) Limit 12. This climb is in
a beautiful area but has 3000’ of steep elevation gain on approach to base
camp. On Day 2 we will be doing the climb and heading all the way back down to
the trailhead. To be ready for this climb, you should be hiking a minimum 2-3
times a month—hikes with significant elevation gain—and doing cardio training
during the week. And you should be able to do a hike equivalent to the shortest
trail to the top of Tiger Mtn. in under 90 minutes
with a fairly heavy backpack. If this is you and you want to do this climb, go
ahead and sign up for it. If you aren’t sure or have questions, please e-mail
the leader at climb1@mpmussallem.net . Leader’s
permission required. Leader: Matthew Mussallem, 604-551-1670,
climb1@mpmussallem.net. (s3/1-5/15)
May
28-31, Fri.-Mon. - Little Tahoma, E. Shoulder
(BG) Limit 12. Limited to members of Dave Morgan’s Basic SIG group. We’ll
use the ‘best three weather days of this four-day period. We’ll be approaching
from Paradise via Cowlitz/Ingraham Glaciers. First one (or two) days will be
spent on crevasse rescue evaluations, and if everything goes well the last day,
we will try an early-morning ascent of Little Tahoma. Leader’s permission
required. Leader: Dave Morgan, 206-659-9833, go.climbing@gmail.com. (s4/4-5/17)
May 28-31,
Fri.-Mon. - Mt. Logan, Banded Gl.
(BG) Limit 6. If weather does not permit to go, will try the
following weekend. Leader’s permission required. Leader: Mike Torok,
206-243-0834, mike@mtnmike.com. (s5/3-5/25)
May 28, Fri. - The
Tooth, S. Face (BR) Limit 6.
Wearing rock shoes on climbing route is permissible. Leader: Tord Kurthy,
425-255-8940, aharkurth@earthlink.net. (s5/3-5/26)
May 29-31,
Sat.-Mon. - Mt. Baker, Boulder Gl.
(BG) Limit 12. SIG climb. Leader’s permission required. Leader: Tom Nims,
360-805-1472, Tom.Nims@gmail.com. (s5/24-5/27)
May 29-31,
Sat.-Mon. - Mt. Constance, S. Chute
(BA) (Tyler Peak USGS) Limit 6. Bike approach. Leader:
Susan Chan, 206-240-3634, yschan@u.washington.edu. (s5/3-5/24)
May 29-30,
Sat.-Sun. - Sahale Peak, Quien Sabe Gl.
(BG) Limit 7. Leader SIG group participants only. Sign up with leader: Sean
Sullivan, 206-632-0523, spsulliv@yahoo.com. (s5/24-5/26)
May 30-31,
Sun.-Mon. - Sahale Peak, Quien Sabe Gl.
(BG) Limit 7. Leader’s SIG particpants only. Sign up
with leader: Stephen McKim, 206-250-4585, stephen2337@msn.com. (s5/20-5/25)
June 4-5, Fri-Sat.
- Mt. Baker, Easton Gl. (BG)
Limit 12. SIG climb. Sign up with leader: Tina Nef, 206-784-7288,
tinanef@aol.com. (s5/10-6/2)
June 4, Fri. - S.
Early Winter Spire, S. Arete (BR)
(Washington Pass USGS) Limit 8. Contact assistant leader Brett Dyson,
206-527-9842, hhiking@hotmail.com, for permission, climb details and carpool.
Leader’s permission required. Leader: Art Freeman, 206-525-4129,
artfreeman525@aol.com. (s5/27-6/2)
June 5-6,
Sat.-Sun. - Eldorado Peak, Inspiration Gl.
(BG) Limit 9. Must be in shap for a very steep approach with
heavy packs. Pace moderate to fast. Leader’s
permission required. Leader: Stephen McKim, 206-250-4585, stephen2337@msn.com.
(s5/24-6/1)
June 5, Sat. -
Ingalls Peak, S. Ridge (BR)
Limit 6. Part of two-day trip of Ingalls Peak and Mt. Stuart. Ingalls on
Saturday, Stuart on Sunday. Leader’s permission required. Leader: Dave Morgan,
206-659-9833, go.climbing@gmail.com. (s4/1-6/2)
June
5, Sat. - Kangaroo Temple, N. Face
(BR) Limit 8. Contact
assistant leader Brett Dyson, 206-527-9842, hhiking@hotmail.com, for
permission, climb details and carpool. NOTE: Anyone who is a strong skier and
wants to bring skis for approach should contact leader about that option.
Leader’s permission required. Leader: Art Freeman, 206-525-4129, artfreeman525@aol.com.
(s5/27-6/2)
June 5-6,
Sat.-Sun. - Mt. Shuksan, Sulphide Gl.
(BG) Limit 9. Only open to basic equivalency/intermediate equivalency graduates
with the Seattle Branch. Sign up with leader: Joe Dumelin, joe[dot]dumelin@gmail[dot]com.
(s6/1-6/5)
June
5-6, Sat.-Sun. - Sherpa Peak, S. Route
(BA) Limit 6. Leader: Ed
Greutert, 206-230-8215, egreutert@hotmail.com. (s5/17-5/31)
June 6-7,
Sun.-Mon. - Mt. Stuart, Cascadian Couloir (BA)
Limit 6. Second day of three-day trip that includes Ingalls
(Saturday) and Stuart (Sunday-Monday). Will be camping
near Ingalls Creek Saturday night after descending from a climb of Ingalls on
Saturday. Leader’s permission required. Leader: Dave Morgan,
206-659-9833, go.climbing@gmail.com. (s4/1-6/2)
June
6, Sun. - Silver Star Mtn., Silver Star Gl.
(BA) Limit 8. Contact
assistant leader Brett Dyson, 206-527-9842, hhiking@hotmail.com, for
permission, climb details and carpool. NOTE: Anyone who is a strong skier and
wants to bring skis for approach should contact leader about that option.
Leader’s permission required. Leader: Art Freeman, 206-525-4129,
artfreeman525@aol.com. (s5/27-6/2)
Advance notices
June
8, Tue. - The Tooth, S.
Face (BR) Leader: Cebe Wallace,
206-842-3409, cebe@speakeasy.net. (s5/3-6/7)
June
10, Thu. - Monte Cristo
Peak, N. Col (BA) Leader: Brent Grisim,
425-780-2945, thebwg1@yahoo.com. (s2/26-6/1)
June 11-13,
Fri.-Sun. - Mt. Shasta, Avalanche Gap
(BA) Leader: Timothy Williams, 206-235-6402, mtnrtimmy@clearwire.net. (s5/27-6/8)
June 11-12,
Fri-Sat. - Sahale Peak, Quien Sabe Gl.
(BG) Leader: Paulo Albuquerque, 253-630-8283, albupaulo@comcast.net. (s4/1-6/6)
June 11-13,
Fri.-Sun. - Snowfield Peak, Neve Gl.
(BG) Leader: Stephen McKim, 206-250-4585, stephen2337@msn.com. (s6/1-6/9)
June 11, Fri. - S.
Early Winter Spire, S. Arete (BR)
Leader: Tord Kurthy, 425-255-8940, aharkurth@earthlink.net. (s5/17-6/9)
June
12, Sat. - Cathedral Rock, SW Face (BR)
Leader: Michael Lawrence, 206-935-0600, mlawrenc@starbucks.com. (s5/3-6/4)
June
12, Sat. - Colchuck Peak, NW Route
(BA) Leader: Mike Warren, 206-200-7388, MikeW@Warrenduggan.com. (s5/28-6/10)
June 12-13,
Sat.-Sun. - Eldorado Peak, Inspiration Gl.
(BG) Leader: Cebe Wallace, 206-842-3409, cebe@speakeasy.net. (s5/10-6/11)
June 12-13,
Sat.-Sun. - Mt. Baker, Boulder Gl.
(BG) Leader: Robert Brown, 360-658-4728, robertb.brown@seattle.gov. (s5/11-6/4)
June 12-13,
Sat.-Sun. - Mt. Daniel, Lynch Gl.
(BG) Leader: Mark Scheffer, 360-805-6420, mark_scheffer@yahoo.com. (s5/24-6/10)
June 12-14,
Sat.-Mon. - Mt. Garibaldi, E. Face
(BG) Leader: Eric Docktor, 206-352-6464, eric@docktor.net. (s5/10-5/28)
June 12-13,
Sat.-Sun. - Mt. Baker, Boulder Gl.
(BG) Leader: Patrick Mullaney, 206-782-3498, mullp@foster.com. (s5/10-6/4)
June
13, Sun. - Mt. Daniel, Lynch Gl.
(BG) Leader: Michael Lawrence, 206-935-0600, mlawrenc@starbucks.com. (s5/3-6/4)
June 18-19,
Fri.-Sat. - Mt. Baker, Easton Gl.
(BG) Leader: Fred DeHaven, 206-782-7233, fdehaven@aol.com. (s3/9-6/14)
June 19-20,
Sat.-Sun. - Mt. Constance, S. Chute
(BA) Leader: Stephen McKim, 206-250-4585, stephen2337@msn.com. (s6/7-6/15)
June 19-20,
Sat.-Sun. - Mt. Hood, S. Side (BG)
Leader: Wesley Cooper, 206-229-4101, wcooper06@yahoo.com. (s3/12-6/17)
June 19-20,
Sat.-Sun. - Mt. Shuksan, Sulphide Gl.
(BG) Leader: Tom Nims, 360-805-1472, Tom.Nims@gmail.com. (s6/14-6/17)
June 19-20,
Sat.-Sun. - Mt. Daniel, Daniel Gl.
(BG) Leader: Cebe Wallace, 206-842-3409, cebe@speakeasy.net. (s5/24-6/18)
June 25-26,
Fri.-Sat. - Clark Mtn., Walrus Gl.
(BG) Leader: Ed Greutert, 206-230-8215, egreutert@hotmail.com. (s5/24-6/15)
June 25-27,
Fri.-Sun. - Glacier Peak, Disappointment Peak Cleaver (BG) Leader: Eric Docktor, 206-352-6464,
eric@docktor.net. (s5/31-6/11)
June 25, Fri. -
Ingalls Peak, S. Ridge (BR)
Leader: Tord Kurthy, 425-255-8940, aharkurth@earthlink.net. (s5/31-6/23)
June 25-27,
Fri.-Sun. - Mt. Anderson, Eel Gl.
(BG) Leader: Stephen McKim, 206-250-4585, stephen2337@msn.com. (s6/11-6/21)
Alpine climbing equivalency
If you possess significant and
up-to-date climbing skills, as well as climbing experience, you can apply
for Basic Alpine Climbing Course equivalency to participate on club climbs
and events. To find out more, please contact the program coordinator, Joe
Dumelin, basic.equivalency@gmail.com.
Intermediate
Climbing Course
The Intermediate Climbing Course
is underway. Watch for announcements of the 2011 course in the fall and winter.
The intermediate course consists
of classroom and field instruction designed to teach techniques of safe
lead-climbing on rock, snow, ice and mixed-alpine terrain. Technical and non-technical
aspects of leadership and safety are also major components of the program. The
typical student completes the course in 2-5 years. Graduation from this course
also requires Avalanche Level 1 AIARE.
Lecture schedule:
June 28 - Alpine Ice Climbing
Field trip
schedule:
May 8-9 - Rock 1 (2 days)
May 1, 2 or 15 - Rock 2 (1 day)
July 10-11, 17-18, 24-25, Aug.
14-15 - Ice 1 (2 days)
Aug. 28, 29, Sept. 11, 12 -
Ice 2 (1 day)
Intermediate
Climbing Course details:
www.mountaineers.org/seattle/climbing/Courses/IntermediateCourse.html, as well
as upcoming editions of the Go
Guide. Or, send an e-mail to
SeattleIntAdmin@mountaineersforums.org.
Course
continuation fee: There is no
longer a limit on the number of years a student may take to complete the course;
however, an annual continuation fee is required to remain enrolled. In order to
add another year to your intermediate course, please contact the Intermediate
Administration Subcommittee at SeattleIntAdmin@mountaineersforums.org and sign
up online for the continuation.
Intermediate climbs
May 1-2, Sat.-Sun.
- Mt. Hood, Leuthold Couloir (II)
Limit 4. Priority given to leader’s mentor group until the
registration opening date; after registration opens, anyone may join on
available spots. Leader: Edward Palushock, 206-223-5565,
epalushock@alum.syracuse.edu. (s4/19-4/27)
May 22, Sat. -
Ingalls Peak, E. Ridge (IR)
Limit 6. Meet at TH by 4 a.m. for early start, leave TH by 4:30 a.m. Leader:
Stephen McKim, 206-250-4585, stephen2337@msn.com. (s5/10-5/19)
June 25-27,
Fri.-Sun. - Mt. Rainier, Fuhrer Finger
(IM) Limit 6. Leader: Tom Nims, 360-805-1472, Tom.Nims@gmail.com. (s6/14-6/22)
Crag
Climbing Course
The 2010 Crag Climbing Course is
underway. Watch for announcements of the 2011 course this fall and winter.
The course teaches the skills,
knowledge, and techniques needed to safely lead traditional and bolted routes
on outdoor crags. The course consists of one hands-on skill assessment/review,
one indoor gym climbing session, and four weekend field trips. The field trips
are located at popular climbing areas in Washington. The course teaches proper
use of active and passive protection needed for lead climbing in the crag
environment, construction of safe anchor systems for top-rope/leading, swinging
leads on mid-5th class (5.4-5.8) single and multi-pitch climbs, and other
pertinent crag climbing skills.
Questions? Contact seattlecragcourse@gmail.com.
Crag climbs
May 1, Sat. -
Vantage: Riverview Park, Various
(RG) Limit 12. Intermediate and crag leading practice
on 5th Class rock for the cautious (or terrified). Fee: $35. For intermediate
and crag students who would like a day of low-pressure practice prior to
leading their field trips—sort of a Rock 1.5 field trip. Leader: Jena Gilman,
Jena.Gilman@aecom.com, 425-765-6274. (s3/29-4/30)
May 9, Sun. -
Tieton: Royal Columns, Various (RG)
Limit 8. Preference given to the 5/8 crack seminar
participants. Leader’s permission required. Leader: Ken Dungan,
206-920-0657, kendungan@comcast.net. (s3/1-5/5).
May 15-16,
Sat.-Sun. - Leavenworth, Clamshell Cave
(RG) Seattle Crag Climbing Course field trip.
June
2-16, Wed.-Wed. - Exit 38: Trestle Area, Various (RG) Limit 12.
PLAY DAYS—sport climbing for basic students Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m.
Students attend all three days; additional dates possible due to rain. Meet at
Deception Crags parking area, Exit 38, North Bend. Limit 8. Registration
limited to students in this year’s Basic Climbing Course. Hit the crags after
work with your friends and new climbing buddies. We’ll cover setting up your
own top-rope, efficiently cleaning sport routes, and basic crag safety. We’ll
have fun and focus on face climbing and fluid movement. Bring standard rock
gear, including harness, helmet, rock shoes, personal anchor, belay device and
gloves. Don’t forget your headlamp as we may be returning in the dark. Contact
leader for details: Rod Sawyer, 206-356-8686, rsawyer@clearwire.net. Assistant
leader: Jenn Carter, jennecarter@gmail.com. (s5/5-5/28)
Sport
Climbing Course
Technical skills and physical and
mental strength acquired in sport climbing can be applied to all types of
climbing adventures, from sport routes to multi-pitch traditional routes and
even to ice climbing. Figure out what you need to do to start leading into the
5.10’s and beyond on sport routes.
Learn new techniques, how to
belay and fall safely, assess risk, reflect on your climbing and improve your
physical and mental strength.
To accomplish these things, you
will partner with another person in the course for 10 weeks of training towards
a target red-point sport route at Vantage. Because you will be working
closely as a team with another person in the course, they will be highly
dependent on you for training.
Applicants should be comfortable
leading 5.9 sport routes. Please be sure that you can commit to the full
training program, or make other workable arrangements.
Course fee: $150 plus Vertical World session ($35 members, $45
non-members). Required reading: “How to Climb 5.12,” by Eric Hörst, “The Rock
Warrior’s Way,” by Arno Ilgner.
Important dates:
– April 3, Sat. - 2 hr. falling
& belaying session at Vertical World
– April 4, Sun. - Video taping
& route selection field trip
– April 5, Mon. - Technique in
sport climbing, 7 p.m. at program center
– April 16, 17 &18, Fri.-Sun.
- Optional trip to Smith Roc
– April 28, Wed. - Mental
Training for sport climbing, 7 p.m., at program center
– May 16, Sun. - Red-point field
trip
Contacts:
Jenn Carter, jennecarter@gmail.com, or Deb Sand, sebdand@gmail.com.
Trailhead Rock Day
Trailhead event; see pg. 1.
May
1, Sat. - Rock Climbing: Beginner’s Rock Day That’s
right folks; explore the thrill and grace of outdoor rock climbing in a
controlled and safe setting. Your pals with The Mountaineers would like to take
you out for a day of easy climbing to give you a taste of what it’s like.
You’ll work with experienced leaders and instructors who’ll teach you the
basics of rock climbing. Bring your hiking boots (stiffer the better); rock
shoes welcome but not necessary. We’ll provide the climbing gear (but feel free
to bring what you already own). So come on out and enjoy this opportunity to
have a blast and learn a new skill. Prerequisites: None. Course fee: $25,
members; $35, non members. Questions? Contact Cebe
Wallace, cebe@speakeasy.net, 206-842-3409.
Intro
to Alpine Climbing (IAC)
The Intro to Alpine Climbing
(IAC) Course is designed as a refresher for climbers whose skills might be a
bit rusty and to give anyone new to climbing a taste of alpine techniques in a
casual, hands-on environment
A different topic is scheduled each month from
March through June as stand-alone events. Some events are scheduled at The
Mountaineers Program Center; others will be held in the field. You may attend
one, some or all sessions. Space is limited, so register early for the topics
you want to attend. Gear lists and other questions should be directed to the
program coordinator, Jeff Panza, 206-755-9962, scramblebear@speakeasy.net.
IAC outings
May 2, Sun. - Rock
Climbing 101 Part of the “Intro to Alpine
Climbing” program series. Rock climbing at the program center
at Magnuson Park. We’ll get as many laps in as possible and work on
technique, as well as belaying and rappelling. Class fee: $20 members; $35
non-members. Questions? Contact Jeff Panza,
206-755-9962, scramblebear@speakeasy.net. (s4/28-5/6)
June 12, Sat. -
Crevasse Rescue & Belay
Escape Part of the “Intro to Alpine Climbing” program series. We’ll review and
practice the skills for crevasse rescue and belay escape in the warmth of a
city park setting. Class fee: $20 members; $35 non-members. Questions?
Contact Jeff Panza, 206-755-9962, scramblebear@speakeasy.net
. (s4/28-6/10)
Intro
to Rock Climbing Course
The Introduction to Rock Climbing
Course is designed for those who have little to no outdoor rock climbing experience.
In this course you will learn the basics of top-roped outdoor climbing. This
includes learning basic climbing knots, belaying skills, climbing techniques
and converting to rappel. Course enrollment is closed for 2010 but watch for
announcements of the 2011 course later this year.
Remaining
sessions:
May 8, Sat. - Field trip at
Mountaineers Program Center
May
22-23, Sat.-Sun. - weekend field trip, location TBD.
Note: Attendance required for all
dates; no make-up sessions allowed.
For more information regarding
the course, you may contact Amy Hardie, amylh4@hotmail.com, or Susan Sayers,
susanjsayers@gmail.com.
Aid
& Big Wall Seminar
Intro to Aid
Climbing Seminar Chalk Talk:
Wed., May 19, 7 p.m., introduction, basic techniques, gear and fundamentals at
Mountaineers Program Center.
Practice session: Sat., May 22, or Sun., May 23. 7:30 a.m. for ABW
participants and 8 a.m. for intro participants, North Wall, Mountaineers
Program Center. Limited to 10 participants. Cost to
members: $60. Future seminars are being planned for fall and winter. Contact:
Takeo Kuraishi takeo.kuraishi@attglobal.net, 425-273-3856.
Intro
to Rock Climbing Course
The Intro to Rock Climbing Course
is now underway. Watch for announcements of the 2011 course in winter of this
year.
This course is designed for those
who have little to no outdoor rock-climbing experience. In this course you will
learn the basics of top-roped outdoor climbing. This includes learning basic
climbing knots, belaying skills, climbing techniques and converting to rappel.
At the end of this course, you
will be able to safely follow a lead climber on sport/crag climbs as well as
know the basics for top-roping on your own. Note: this course is a top-rope
course only. It does not prepare you for an alpine environment or leading rock
climbs.
Remaining
schedule:
May 8, Sat. - Field trip at
Mountaineers Program Center
May
22-23, Sat.-Sun. – Field trip, location TBD.
For more information regarding
the course, contact Amy Hardie, amylh4@hotmail.com, or Susan Sayers, susanjsayers@gmail.com.
All
new! Intro to bouldering
An introduction to safe and fun
bouldering class is offered this spring. Students will learn what it takes to
move confidently through a boulder route. Elements taught: correct techniques
for safe spotting, learning to read a route, and basic climbing techniques.
There will be two evenings on the
boulder at The Mountaineers Program Center on June 3 and 10 from 6:30 p.m.
until 9 p.m., followed by an outdoor field trip to Leavenworth on Sat., June
19. The cost for this is $35 for members of The Mountaineers and $50 for
non-members. The class will be limited to 10 students and will be filled with
the first 10 to sign up.
No experience is required.
Students must be able to provide their own pair of rock shoes to participate. A
chalk bag is recommended and a bouldering pad would be helpful but not
required.
To enroll, visit
www.mountaineers.org or call 206-521-6001. See activity search then
indicate crag climbing and see intro to bouldering. Instructor for the course is
Dave Kimber and the crag leader is Loni Uchytil.
Seminars
May 1, Sat. -
Intermediate and Crag Leading Practice.
Leading 5th Class rock for the cautious (or Terrified). Limit
11. Fee $35. Vantage, Riverview Park area. For
intermediate and crag students who would like a day of low pressure practice
prior to leading field trips—sort of a Rock 1.5 field trip. Learn skills for
leading lower 5th Class rock while also dealing with the mental aspects of
leading. Leader: Jena Gilman, Jena.Gilman@aecom.com, 425-765-6274. (s3/29-4/30)
May 1, Sat. -
Beginner’s Rock Day—Rock Climbing for Novices. Leavenworth Area. Limit 6.
No prerequisites. Fee $35. Mountaineers members and non-members welcome
(Non-members must sign a waiver form). Are you curious about rock climbing but
do not want to be scared or get in over your head? This is a chance to try this
fascinating sport in a low-pressure, easygoing atmosphere with experienced
Mountaineers climb instructors.
This seminar is especially for
people with no prior experience. Our goal is to let you get on the rock in a
safe, non-threatening way and to have a lot of fun doing it. Location is not an
indoor gym, but beautiful Icicle Creek Canyon near Leavenworth, so you can
experience the full aesthetic.
Register online or by calling
206-521-6001. Contact leader for details and logistics. Leader: Cebe Wallace,
cebe@speakeasy.net, 206-842-3409. (s4/5-4/30)
May
2, Sun. Friction Climbing for Basic Students. Icicle Canyon, Leavenworth.
Limit 8. Registration limited to students in this year’s Basic Climbing Course.
Friction is the technique used to climb slabs where there are
no obvious hand or foot holds. Strength means nothing, hardware is
superfluous; it’s all about balance and movement.
You will learn to dance on rock.
All climbing will be safely top-roped. Bring standard rock gear including
harness, helmet, mountain boots, slings and carabiners. Contact leader for
details. Leader: Cebe Wallace, cebe@speakeasy.net, 206-842-3409. (s3/29- 4/30)
May
8, Sat. - Crack Climbing Seminar at Tieton Royal Columns. Limit: 6. Fee $35. We will focus on technique while
top-roping crack climbs at Royal Columns. This area offers a variety of single
pitch crack climbs which are sustained in their difficulty.
Top-ropes will be set up for
students to climb top-roped on 5.5 to 5.9 old-school alpine ratings. This level
of climbing is not ideal for beginners. Students should be comfortable leading
at the mid-5th Class level. This will give the students the opportunity to
focus on their technique and push their abilities while on top-rope.
This seminar is ideal for
intermediate and crag students and grads. Leader: Ken Dungan,
Kendungan@comcast.net members. Registration ends May 5.
May
15-16, Sat-Sun. - Climbing Friction Slab at Icicle Creek. Limit 8. Fee $50. Learn friction technique and
practice both top-roped and leading on bolted granite slabs. Open to basic and
crag grads and intermediate students of any level, including first year,
wanting to advance their climbing skills.
First day will be bouldering and
top-roped, and we will start in mountain boots. Second day will be on more
challenging bolted slabs, from low 5th up to 5.8 and will provide opportunities
for leading.
Bring both mountain boots and
rock shoes, plenty of slings and carabiners, helmet, harness and rope if you
have one. No other pro needed. Depart Krystall’s Restaurant in Leavenworth at 9
a.m. Contact leader for details: Cebe Wallace, cebe@speakeasy.net,
206-842-3409). Assistant leaders: Deling Ren, cookiejar.seattle@gmail.com, and
Yinan Zhao, yinan_zhao@hotmail.com.
June 2, 9 and 16 –
Play Days. Three Wednesday evenings, 6 p.m. Sport
climbing for basic climbing students at Exit 38. Limit 8. Fee $35. Registration
limited to students in this year’s Basic Climbing Course.
Hit the crags after work with
your friends and new climbing buddies. We’ll cover setting up your own
top-rope, efficiently cleaning sport routes, and basic crag safety. We’ll have
fun and focus on face climbing and fluid movement. Bring standard rock gear,
including harness, helmet, rock shoes, personal anchor, belay device and
gloves. Don’t forget your headlamp as we may be hiking out in the dark. This is
a three-part series.
Registration is for all three
sessions. Dates may be changed if necessary due to weather. Meet at Deception
Crags parking area, Exit 38, North Bend. Contact leader for details. Leader:
Rod Sawyer, rsawyer@clearwire.net. Assistant leader: Jenn Carter,
jennecarter@gmail.com. (s5/5-5/28)
Friday nights on the wall
Friday night climbing has moved
outside! The indoor sessions will resume on Sept. 10. Longer days, good weather
and the great outdoors have arrived. Let’s keep climbing outside on Fridays on
the south climbing plaza wall at The Mountaineers Program Center. These events
are open to the public and offer a great hangout besides an opportunity to
practice or try your skills out on the wall.
5.9 in the Alpine Group
May 1, Sat. - The 5.9 in the Alpine Group will host the group
campsite at Eightmile Campground in Icicle Creek near Leavenworth. If you are
in the area hiking or participating in a rock field trip and want a place to
camp Sat. night, May 1, please contact 5-9Alpine@googlegroups.com.
For more information about the
5.9 in the Alpine Group, go to http://groups.google.com/group/5-9Alpine.
Winter mountaineering group
We are excited to introduce the
Winter Mountaineering Group, part of the set of advanced-level climbing groups,
including water ice, aid, rescue, 5.9 in the alpine and others. However, a
basic climbing skill set is a good starting point to follow on some climbs.
The purpose of the group is
simply to build a community around winter mountaineering. This includes
enabling people to find other winter climbers, and hopefully share their
winter climbing adventures with the rest of us.
We have created an online group
that you are welcome to join. You can send and receive forum messages all
within your e-mail client. The group website also has some files and pages of
general interest, like a list of interesting winter climbs to get you excited
about, and a schedule of events and activities we will be organizing.
The group website is
http://groups.google.com/group/winter-mountaineering.
Dancing
Co-chairs: Dennis
Bayer, 206-784-4011; Ivan Sleveland, 206-522-1316.
New website:
www.mountaineers.org/seattle/folkdance.
International Folk Dancing
The Seattle Mountaineers
International Folk Dancers have a new home in Warren G. Magnuson Park at Sand
Point; we are dancing in the Brig (Building 406). The Brig has beautiful
hardwood floors, plenty of free parking and is located a few buildings SE of
The Mountaineers Program Center located in Building 67.
Every Tuesday -
Folk dancing Dance just for the fun of it in
the Brig at Magnuson Park from 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. Your favorite dance is waiting
for you. We have informal lessons taught by our experienced dancers. There’s
always something for everyone. Mountaineers members, $5; non-members, $6. Free admission for dancers age
30 and under. Drop-ins are always welcome. No partners necessary;
there are plenty of delightful ones here! We’re the friendliest outfit in town.
For more information, driving directions, or a map of Magnuson Park, please
visit our new website listed above.
Rock & Roll Dance
Please visit the Rock & Roll
Dance website, www.dbmechanic.com/dances/rock.htm. Still have questions? Contact Karen Ludwig at:
206-484-9187, www.karenludwig2000@yahoo.com.
Family Activities
These
are opportunities for families with children to get outside together and enjoy
the great outdoors with other families. Kids learn best from being around other
children.
Committee chair:
Courtenay Schurman, court@bodyresults.com.
Guidelines: See
pg. 19, “Sending you on your way,” (first paragraph) for procedures and rules
regarding participation in family activities. If you need to cancel your
attendance, please alert the activity leader ahead of time.
Updated
information: For impromptu offerings that don’t
make it into the Go Guide in time, join the Family Activities group on Yahoo! To
receive an invitation, send a request to court@bodyresults.com and you can be
alerted to any changes or new listings throughout the winter.
New
kids’ programs!
Junior Mountaineer
— An all summer activity. The
Mountaineers are excited to offer a new way to get your kids outside and have
fun. Become a Junior Mountaineer! Anyone can join. Just visit The
Mountaineers Program Center to pick up a kid-friendly guidebook to 10
great activities that families can do together this
summer—either with The Mountaineers or on your own! The guidebook—which
can also be mailed to you upon request or gleaned from
www.mountaineers.org—will navigate you through the activities, and there will
be lots of opportunities to do them with The Mountaineers. As you finish an
activity, you will record it in your book, and receive a patch as your reward.
Put the patches on a shirt, jacket, hat, or your backpack. Finish as many as
you can and join us for an end-of-season celebration (time TBA) where we reward all fully-completed guidebooks with a
special prize. For more
details, contact program coordinator Ken Hahn, 206-595-7237,
kenh@mountaineers.org.
Hike Tracker &
Climb Tracker — With these two
programs kids can set goals for the season’s miles and elevation gains while
enjoying a healthy and fun summer with the whole family! Kids track their miles
or elevation gained on a fun wall chart (several varieties available based on
child’s ambitions and interests), reaching mid-point goals on the way. Combined
with our Junior Mountaineer program, the tracker program should provide plenty
of ideas and opportunities to motivate the whole family to get outdoors. When
you’re finished, simply start over again! Pick up your wall charts at The
Mountaineers Program Center on Sand Point Way in Magnuson Park or request that
it be mailed to you. For more details, contact program coordinator Ken Hahn,
206-595-7237, kenh@mountaineers.org.
Junior Naturalist Summer Program
An exciting naturalist program
built just for young children will be offered this year! See Naturalists on pg.
11 for details.
Hikes
May 1, Sat. -
Twin Falls (E) 3 mi. 200’ gain. Meet at
parking lot 9:30 a.m. Expect lots of cars as this is a popular, easy family
hike and gets lots of visitors on weekends. Please register each child for
accurate head count. Adults must participate (no drop-offs) and have child
present. Bring a snack and camera. Depending on age and ability of children the
goal is to visit both falls. We hike at a 6-year-old’s pace. There will also be
time for rock tossing in the river at the end of the hike. No dogs, please.
Contact leader for more information: Courtenay Schurman: court@bodyresults.com.
May 19, Wed. -
Marsh Island/Foster Island Walk (E)
2 mi., no gain. Join us for early release from Seattle public schools and an
afternoon of fun! Meet at MOHAI parking lot at 2:30 p.m. We’ll explore Marsh
and Foster Islands, and watch the ducks from the arboretum. Bring a snack and
expect muddy conditions. Great first outing for kids of 3-7.
Change of clothes and footwear a good idea for afterward. Contact leader for
more information: Courtenay Schurman, court@bodyresults.com.
First Aid
Website: www.mountaineers.org/seattle/MOFA
MOFA Course Mountaineering
Oriented First Aid (MOFA) is a 24-hour first aid course for the wilderness
traveler. The course meets the requirements for the American Red Cross (ARC)
Standard First Aid Course with 18 hours of additional wilderness-focused,
first-aid training. Volunteer instructors are certified by the ARC. The class
is often held two evenings a week for four weeks, or for one Saturday plus a
full weekend, though some other schedules are sometimes available. All classes
must be attended.
A MOFA Refresher Course for those
who took MOFA in the last 3-1/2 years is available, as well as an instructor
class, and a waiver program for health care professionals.
Course fee for
Standard MOFA: $90 for
Mountaineers members and $125 for non-members. The fee includes textbooks,
which are available the first night of class. MOFA courses held on weekends at
Mountaineers lodges cost an additional $80, which covers room and board. When
held at Meany Lodge, a Sno-Park permit and a groomed trail sticker are
required.
Registration: To register or for more information, call member
services, 206-521-6001. You can also sign up online using the activity search, then indicate “first aid” and don’t limit the dates or the
branch. Also, the Seattle MOFA website has a link that displays only current
Seattle classes.
Do check the website for
additional information on MOFA, MOFA refresher, MOFA waivers for health care
workers, and the instructor course.
Upcoming MOFA courses
All open courses are listed at
www.mountaineers.org.
May 4-27,
Tue.-Thu. -MOFA 6:30-9:30 p.m.
at The Mountaineers Program Center, 7700 Sand Point Way N.E. Leader: Rich
Evans, 425-820-9680, rcevans1604@verizon.net. (s4/5-4/29)
Hiking
Hiking Committee:
Our next meeting is Tue., April 6 at 7 p.m. at the program center in Magnuson
Park. All members are welcome!
Hiking website:
www.mountaineers.org/seattle/seahike.
This website has lots of good information on hiking leader registration,
seminar schedules, hiking trails, carpooling, and how to sign up for a hike.
Trailhead event; see pg. 1.
Leave No Trace Trainer Course
This
course consists of a classroom session and a weekend backpack session.
Classroom session attendance is required for participation in the backpack
session. Upon course completion, graduates will be a LNT certified trainer.
Trainers can offer awareness workshops for organizations or the general public
under the LNT brand. Tuition includes course syllabus and handouts. Course
texts (“Soft Paths,” by David Cole) may be purchased online or from The
Mountaineers Bookstore.
Participants
must provide their own backpacking gear. Register online or by calling
206-521-6001. You may pay by credit card online. Individuals interested in
participating in the Leave No Trace Trainer Course should possess basic hiking
and camping skills, and be in reasonably good physical condition. All
non-Mountaineers members must sign a liability waiver at the classroom session
to participate in the backpack session. The waiver is part of a guest
membership registration process, also required.
Minimum
age to attend the course is 14. Participants younger than 18
must have written parental consent to attend. The classroom session will
be held Wednesday, June 2, from 6-9:30 p.m. at The Mountaineers Program Center.
The backpack session will be Sat-Sun., June 5-6 at a location TBA. Trailhead
meeting time and group gear will be provided in the classroom session.
After
the course roster is full, cancellations will be back-filled from the course
wait list.
Program fees: $45 for members, $55 for non-members. For more
details, contact program coordinator Ken Hahn, 206-595-7237,
kenh@mountaineers.org.
Seminars
May 13 & 22,
Wed. & Sat. - Intro To Map & Compass Clinic Map and compass are part of the Ten Essentials, but
if you don't know how to use them, they are worthless. Learn the basics in this
two-part program of one workshop and one field trip. Day one
- workshop at Magnuson Program Center, 6:30-9 p.m. Day two - field trip at
Discovery Park. Basic compasses and maps are provided; bring a pencil
and straight-edge. Instructor: Ken Hahn, kenh@mountaineers.org, 206-595-7237.
Class fee: $20 members, $35 non-members.
May 16, Sun. -
Bivy Basics: Avoiding The Wet Match Catastrophe This outing is designed to provide a hands-on
“testing ground” for your emergency gear, while also enjoying a moderate day
hike and learning what experienced folks utilize. Leave No Trace ethics will be
closely followed during this event. Leader: Jack Nichols: jmongol@yahoo.com,
206-755-1511, Fees: $10 members, $15 non-members.
May
18, Tue. - Hike Leader
Seminar 7 p.m. at Mountaineers Program
Center. Are you an active hiker who wants to start organizing your own club
hikes? This seminar is the first step in becoming a hike leader and finding out
the process to be added to our leader list for hiking. Please sign up for the
seminar if you know you will attend so that we can e-mail to you preliminary
materials to enhance discussion during the seminar. The seminar is free and
open to all Mountaineers members. Leader: Susan Graham, 253-639-0425,
mudonmyboots@yahoo.com. (s4/1-5/18)
May
20, Thu. - Beginning
Hiking Seminar 6:30 p.m. at
Mountaineers Program Center. Learn what to put in your pack, how to dress for
comfort and safety, and what to expect on a Mountaineers hike. Experienced
Mountaineers hiking leaders will discuss clothing, boots, pack, the Ten
Essentials, seasonal trail hazards, where to shop for equipment (and save
money), and how to research your hikes. This seminar is designed to answer
questions a beginning hiker or new Mountaineers member may have about how to
get started. We will show samples of our equipment and show pictures of some of
our favorite places to hike. The seminar is
free and you don’t have to be a
Mountaineers member to attend. However, registration is required for this
seminar with a limit of 75. Members and non-members are asked to utilize the
online registration system. If assistance is needed to register, call member
services, 206-521-6000. A minimum of three participants is required by the
enrollment closing date (two days prior to event) or the seminar will be
canceled. Please check with club headquarters on the day of the seminar to make
sure that it has not been canceled due to lack of participants. Leader: Kelly
Cleman, 360-563-0320, masterhiker@gmail.com. (s4/20-5/18)
Hikes
May 1, Sat. -
Chenuis Falls Trail (M) (Mowich Lake
USGS) 3 mi., 1000’ gain. Limit 12. Meet at 6:30 a.m. at Grady P&R. For
current information contact MRNP Wilkeson Wilderness Info Center. Book: Hidden
Hikes in Western Washington. Carbon River Rd. has to be walked, bringing actual
mileage to 10 mi. RT. National park pass required for all vehicles. Leader:
Brian Carpenter, 206-324-6140, brianc110@earthlink.net. (s4/19-4/29)
May 1, Sat. - Goat
Lake (Monte Cristo) (M) (Sloan Peak
USGS) 10 mi., 1300’ gain. Limit 10. Meet at 9 a.m. at Brickyard P&R. More
details will be posted in April. Leader: Carly Waterman, 253-670-3173,
carlyw@psbc.org. (s4/15-4/29)
May 2, Sun. - Lime
Kiln Trail (E) 6 mi., 500’ gain. Co-leader:
Susan Shih. Leader: Jan Davis, 206-282-7092, jan-davis@comcast.net. (s4/16-4/30)
May 8, Sat. - Mt
Si (S) 8 mi., 3200’ gain. Meet at 9
a.m. at Mt. Si parking lot. 1/2 hr. A leisurely paced hike
for those people who would like to do Mt. Si but are intimidated by those fast
hikers. Let’s get in shape for summer hikes. Leader: Sylvia Cavness,
253-939-6912, happyhikergal@yahoo.com. (s4/26-5/6)
May 8, Sat. - N.
I-90 Peak #3, Mailbox Peak (VS)
(Mt Si NRCA; GT-206S) 6 mi., 4100’ gain. Limit 8. Meet at 9 a.m. at Tibbett’s
P&R. Slow-paced hike up Mailbox. This trip should not be your first hike of
the season. It is one of the most challenging hikes in the area because it is
very steep. We will hike slow and steady, keeping the pace comfortable to allow
a good time for all. Leader: Carly Waterman, 253-670-3173, carlyw@psbc.org. (s4/29-5/6)
May 9, Sun. -
Umtanum Ridge, Black Canyon Loop
(M) 10 mi., 1800’ gain. Meet at 8 a.m., at Hyak on Snoqualmie Pass, where
leader lives. Some people may meet at a TBD P&R at 7:15 a.m. or so. Leader:
Chris Caviezel, 425-434-0899, chris.caviezel@gmail.com. (s5/3-5/16)
May 12, Wed. -
Rattlesnake Traverse (AHH) (S)
10.5 mi., 2600’ gain. Meet at 4:30 p.m. at the stop sign just as you turn onto
the frontage road heading to the Tiger Mtn. parking lot on the S. side of Exit
20. Daylight will be scarce, so we’ll be leaving promptly at 4:30 p.m.
Headlamps required. Leader: Neil Carlsen, 206-551-0572, necarlsen@comcast.net.
(s5/4-5/11)
May 16, Sun. -
Robinson Canyon/Ainsley Canyon See
Foothills Branch Hiking section. (s4/26-5/8)
May 22, Sat. - Dog
Mtn.. (S)
6 mi., 2850’ gain. Meet at 5:30 a.m. at N. side of N.E. 65th St. P&R below
I-5. Be at the TH by 9:30 a.m. This is an extremely popular hike this time of
the year because the balsamroot, purple lupines and many other wildflowers are
at their peak. We should meet fewer crowds if we start our hike early. We will
hike this as a loop, ascending via the more gradual and scenic eastern (but
longer) route and descend via the steeper northern route. From the top, we
should be able to see the Columbia River, Mt. Adams, Mt. Hood and Mt. St.
Helens on a clear day. The pace will be moderate with plenty of stops for
picture taking. Leader plans on camping at Beacon Rock SP Friday night and
maybe Saturday night. This hike may be cancelled due to poor weather. Leader:
Susan Shih, 206-935-7824, sushih@comcast.net. (s5/7-5/19)
May 22, Sat. -
White Bluffs, Hanford Reach N. Slope
(M) See Foothills Branch Hiking for details.
May 26, Wed. -
Annette Lake (AHH) (M) 7.5 mi.,
1700’ gain. Limit 12. Meet at 4:30 p.m. at the stop sign just as you turn onto
the frontage road heading to the Tiger Mtn. parking lot on the S. side of Exit
20. Daylight will be scarce so we’ll be leaving promptly at 4:30. Headlamps
required. Leader: Lynn Graf, 206-632-8117, lynn.graf@gmail.com. (s5/18-5/25)
Midweek Hikes
IATC = The Issaquah Alpine Trail
Center in Issaquah.
May
4, Tue. - Talus Caves
Loop (EM) (Tiger Mtn. GT-204S) 6.8
mi., 1100’ gain. Meet 9 a.m. at IATC. Starting at the 2nd St. parking area,
we’ll hike up the High School Trail and take the Section Line Trail to the
junction with a trail that goes into the caves—returning on the Nook, Bus,
Wetland, Adventure, and High School Trails. No registration, members only.
Leader: Suzanne Stockton, 425-643-0395, hikingrandma@yahoo.com. (s4/1-5/4)
May 7, Fri. -
Everett to Issaquah, Part 2 (EM)
7.5 mi., 300’’ gain. Meet at 9:45 a.m. at Ash Way P&R (164th St. SW &
Ash Way). Hike the Interurban Trail from Ash Way P&R to Aurora Village (Hwy
99 & N. 200th). If you weren’t able to hike the original one, led by Ron
McConnell and Kathy Biever on St. Patrick’s Day, and would like to, this is the
hike for you. Dave is leading this as a make-up. Bring or buy lunch. Sign up
online or with the program center. Busing to and from hike
greatly recommended. Leader: David Beste, 206-244-9622, pjbeste@aol.com.
(s4/26-5/5)
May 10, Mon. -
Wallace Falls Loop (M) (Index
GT-142) 6 mi., 1600’ gain. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at Woodinville P&R. Hike on
wooded trail along the river up to the view of upper falls; return via RR
grade. No registration, members only. Leader: Eva Syrovy, 206-364-6270,
egsyrovy@comcast.net. (s4/1-5/10)
May 12, Wed. - Mt.
Si Old Trail (S) (Mt. Si NRCA, GT-206S) 7
mi., 3300’ gain. Meet at 9 a.m. at Preston P&R, I-90 Exit 22, A steeper, quieter and less-traveled route to a popular
nearby peak. Good views from the top, weather permitting. No registration,
members only. Leader: Peggy Owen, 425-746-1070, hikerpeggy38@comcast.net. (s4/1-5/12)
May 14, Fri. -
Everett to Issaquah, Part 3 (EM)
8 mi., 200’’ gain. Meet at 10 a.m. at Aurora Village P&R (Hwy. 99 & N.
200th). Hike the Interurban Trail S. in the City of Shoreline. We’ll walk
through Lake Forest Park on backroads, then on the Burke Gilman and Sammamish
River Trails, ending at Bothell P&R. Bring lunch or buy at Third Place
Books in Lake Forest Park. Sign up online or with program center. Busing to and from hike strongly recommended. Co-leaders:
Kathy Biever, 206-283-9047; Ron McConnell, 425-451-2142, ronmcconnell@msn.com.
(s4/29-5/12)
May
17, Mon. - Burke to Ballard Benches and More
(EM) 9 mi., minimal gain. Meet
at 11 a.m. at Burke Museum Cafe (N.E. 45th & 17th N.E.). Stroll through UW
campus and visit eight new benches recently designed and built by UW landscape
architecture students. Then, walk along the Burke-Gilman Trail as much as we
can, reaching Ballard Corners Park (17th Ave. N.W. between N.W. 62nd and N.W.
63rd St.) where we’ll sit on the overstuffed concrete sofa and chair. Optional
opportunity after the hike: celebrate co-leaders Kathy Biever‘s and Ron’s
Norwegian-ness by viewing the Norwegian Constitution Day Parade in Ballard. One
of the largest ethnic parades in the U.S., it will feature about 100 entries.
Parade starts at 4 p.m. Leader: Ron McConnell, 425-451-2142,
ronmcconnell@msn.com. (s5/5-5/15)
May
18, Tue. - Middle Fork of
Snoqualmie (E) (Mt. Si-174GT) 6 mi., 800’
gain. Limit 25. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at IATC. Will hike upstream
from the Gateway Bridge with many ups and downs and a peaceful setting.
Leader: Fred Zeitler, 425-882-3435, MarianZZZ@comcast.net. (s4/1-5/18)
May
20, Thu. - Lake 22 (EM) (Granite Falls GT-109) 6 mi., 1600’ gain. Meet
at 9 a.m. at IATC. This spectacular but moderate hike is best enjoyed midweek.
No registration, members only. Leader: Peter Stevens, 425-483-8851,
stevens@u.washington.edu. (s4/9-5/20) NC
May
21, Fri. - Everett to Issaquah, Part 4 (M)
9 mi., minimal’ gain. Meet
10 a.m. at Bothell P&R. Hike along the Sammamish River Trail through
Woodinville to the Redmond Transit Center, with a stop for lunch at one of
several restaurants at Hollywood Hill or at the Red Hook Brewery. Meet at 10
a.m. at Bothell P&R (103rd Ave. N.E. between Main & Woodinville Dr.).
Hike ends at Redmond Transit Center. Sign up online or via the program center. Busing to and from hike strongly urged. Co-leaders: Kathy
Biever, 206-283-9047; Ron McConnell, 425-451-2142, ronmcconnell@msn.com. (s5/12-5/19)
May
27, Thu. - Manastash Loop
from Umtanum Rd. (M) (USGS
Manastash Creek) 8 mi., 900’ gain. Meet at 8 a.m. at Preston P&R, I-90 Exit
22. Hike through peaceful valleys to “The Book” on Manastash Ridge. Late-spring
flowers; watch out for ticks and snakes. Possible stop in Cle
Elum for early supper on the way home. Carpool accordingly. Leader: Ruth
Godding, 425-836-9873, rhgodding@comcast.net. (s4/1-5/27)
May 28, Fri. -
Everett to Issaquah, Part 5 (MS)
12.5 mi., minimal’ gain. Meet at 9 a.m. at Redmond Transit Center. Hike through
Redmond to the E. Lake Sammamish Trail and then S. along Lake Sammamish to
Issaquah. Bring a lunch and plenty of water because after we leave Redmond
there will be no place to buy drinks or lunch until we walk near a convenience
store, located over 6 mi. S. of Redmond. Bring lunch to eat along the trail.
Due to the length of the hike we will not walk through Issaquah, but will catch
a bus near the corner of E. Lake Sammamish and S.E. 56th St. to take us to
Issaquah Transit Center. Busing to and from hike is hugely recommended.
Register online or via the program center. Co-leaders: Kathy Biever,
206-283-9047; Ron McConnell, 425-451-2142, ronmcconnell@msn.com. (s5/19-5/26)
June 4, Fri. -
Lightfooting to Lighthouse—Hike #5, Alki Point (EM) 9 mi., 600’ gain. Meet at 9:45 a.m. at
Fauntleroy ferry dock. Starting at ferry terminal we’ll walk through parks,
along beaches and through fine neighborhoods. Bring or buy lunch. Leaders will
take Bus 54 from 3rd Ave. & Pike St. at 9:18, arriving at Fauntleroy at
9:43 a.m. Hike ends at bus stop at S.W. Spokane St. & 26th Ave. S.W. Sign
up online or via the program center. Co-leaders: Julie Miller, 206-283-1406,
miller.jz@comcast.net; Kathy Biever, 206-283-9047, eskay39@comcast.net. (s5/19-6/2)
Naturalists
Website:
www.mountaineers.org/seattle/naturalists
May highlights
•
Intro To The Natural World
course begins.
• Ice Age Floods Weekend Trip for
Study Group Members
Intro to the Natural World Course
Enrollment ends on Sun., May 16
for the Introduction to the Natural World Course. The course teaches students
how to identify common plants, birds, and animals with the aid of a field
guide. We also introduce the concept of “life zones” and discuss the ecology of
the Northwest. With practice, you will be able to identify many common species
from memory and anticipate finding them based on when and where you are
traveling.
There are four lectures and four
field trips beginning on Tue., May 18. Check the Seattle Naturalists’ website
for details on the schedule.
Study group enrollment open
Registration for the 2009-2010
Naturalist Study Group remains open. The group is for members who want to keep
learning about plants and animals in the Northwest. Study group members who
enrolled in prior years do not need to re-register for this year’s program,
which starts June 1. Check the study group section of the Naturalists’
website for more details and the field trip and lecture schedule.
Trips
Leaders are organizing trips for
May. Additional trips will be listed in the activity database. The Naturalists’
website has a direct link to the activity database and returns all upcoming
trips. Unless otherwise noted, any Mountaineers member is welcome to take part.
Not yet a member? Join us as a guest. Call the program center at 206-521-6001
for details.
May 2, Sun. -
Deception Pass State Park, Wildflowers, North Beach-Goose Rock (EM) 8 mi., 800’ gain. Limit 12. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at
West Beach parking lot. 1.5 hr. Enjoy near-peak bloom of spring wildflowers
along North Beach trail to Goose Rock. Expect to see many blooming species
(including rhododendrons, sea blush, stonecrop, larkspur and more) along
beautiful forested trails, rocky slopes and meadow balds. Option
to extend hike to explore wildflowers blooming among the dunes and upland
meadows of West Beach. Registration priority to
members only through 4/20. This is a great trip for naturalists and
nature photographers. Time and interest permitting, we’ll also explore West
Beach area for wildflowers. Expect to see over 20 plant species and a few
wildlife sightings. A few wildflowers photos to stir your interest:
www.pnwflowers.com/photos/may/080506DeceptionPass. Leader: Linda Moore,
425-347-7650, abenteuerbc@yahoo.com. (s4/11-4/27)
May 16, Sun. -
Robinson Canyon/Ainsley Canyon See
Foothills Branch Hiking section. (s4/26-5/8)
May 22, Sat. -
White Bluffs, Hanford Reach N. Slope
(M) See Foothills Branch Hiking for details.
May 29, Sat. -
Iron Bear (M) 6 mi., 1900’ gain. Meet at 9
a.m. at Mineral Springs Resort. This hike is called “Teanaway Ridge in Day
Hiking Snoqualmie Region” and is described starting on pg. 231. We’ll hike at a
moderately brisk pace but have frequent pauses to enjoy spring flowers. Leader:
Ann Schaechtel, 509-548-9967, ann.schaechtel@verizon.net. (s5/12-5/26)
Junior Naturalist Summer Program
An exciting naturalist program
built just for young children will be offered this year! Each event is run by
knowledgeable volunteers who will present different aspects of the natural
world to the budding naturalist in your family.
We’ll provide fun ways to instill
the importance of conservation and respect for our environment through games,
arts, and crafts. The focus will be on exploration in a hands-on learning
environment. All events will be on Saturday mornings, and will last a few hours
each. There should also be plenty of time afterwards for more family playtime
and socializing. All destinations will be in the Seattle area, with exact times
specified in the event listing and online. Children will receive recognition
for completing each event, and awards for finishing the whole program.
Coming up:
May 22 - Bot for Tots: A Native
Wildflower Scavenger Hunt
June 19 - Quack, Splash, Ribbit!
A Day at the Wetlands
July 10 -
Digging-Dwimming-Crawling-Flying: Who’s Who at the
Beach
Aug. 14 - Little Fish, Big Fish:
The Amazing Salmon Adventure
TBA - Fall Program
Events
Registration:
Required for each of your children, but parents/guardians (at least one
required at an event) do not need to register. Register for the events either
online at www.mountaineers.com of by calling member services at 206-521-6001.
Note: The following
outings are designed so that each child will take away something by which to
remember the outing and be instilled with a sense of pride in his or her
accomplishment.
Fees: $8 per child for Mountaineers
members; $10 per child for non-members.
Leader: The leader for all the trips below is Ken Hahn,
kenh@mountaineers.org, 206-595-7237. Contact him for more details about any of
the Junior Naturalist outings. All events will run approximately 2 hrs. A
family social, picnic, or playtime afterward is optional.
May 22, Sat. - Bot
For Tots: A Native Wildflower Scavenger Hunt
We’ll go to Seward Park and discover native plants and flowers scavenger-hunt
style! Children will learn how to identify and “collect” specimens (in Leave No
Trace fashion) while having fun and developing an appreciation and respect for
the environment. We’ll meet at the Audubon Center located in Seward Park near
the intersection of Lake Washington Blvd. and Seward park
Rd. at 9:30 a.m. More details after registration.
June 19, Sat. -
Quack, Splash, Ribbit! A Day At The Wetlands
We’ll go to a local wetlands area where children can observe the flora and
fauna in this fragile ecosystem while gaining the understanding of the
importance of this part of the lifecycle. We’ll meet at the Meadowbrook
Community Center parking lot, 10517 35th Ave. N.E., Seattle, 9:30 a.m. More
details after registration.
July 10, Sat. -
Digging-Swimming-Crawling-Flying: Who’s Who at the Beach A trip out to low tide on the beach at Alki Point
where we’ll have the opportunity to see what usually only a fish can. We’ll
meet at Constellation Park, 63rd Ave. S.W., and Beach Dr. S.W., Seattle, at
9:30 a.m. More details after registration.
Aug. 14 - Little
Fish, Big Fish: The Amazing Salmon Adventure
Watch the salmon run at the Ballard Locks, and afterward play “The Amazing
Salmon Adventure,” in which children get to play the part of salmon traveling
upstream. We’ll meet outside the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers entrance gate,
3015 N.W. 54th St., Seattle, at 9:30 a.m. More details after registration.
Navigation
Chair: Lynn Graf, lynn.graf@gmail.com
Trailhead event; see pg. 1.
Basic Navigation Course
Learn how to get more info from
your map! Learn how to figure out what bearing you should be on to get to where
you want to be. Learn how to follow bearings in the great outdoors! Get a head
start on your course requirements! The course consists of a map and compass
workshop (one full evening) and a challenging field trip (one full day at
Heybrook Ridge, about 1,500’ of elevation gain and considerable off-trail
travel).
Participants who successfully
complete the course will receive a navigation card. Basic Navigation Course is required
for courses in basic climbing, snowshoe and alpine Scrambling, as well as some
ski classes.
The course is strongly
recommended for all hike leaders and backcountry skiers. It is also beneficial
for hikers.
The Basic Navigation Course is
offered every year in November, February and March. The next course will start
in late October 2010, with enrollment opening in September.
Navigation instructors welcome
Experienced navigators and those
who have completed the Basic Navigation Course in previous years are welcome to
help us instruct the course. We welcome both new and experienced instructors at
the workshops and field trips. It’s a great way to renew your navigation skills
and get to know others in The Mountaineers community. If you have any
questions, contact Lynn Graf, lynn.graf@gmail.com, 206-632-8117. Thanks to all
of you who volunteered this season.
Navigation website
For the most up-to-date
information on navigation, including instructor registration, details of
required homework assignments (which you must complete before attending the
workshop), navigation card replacement, and compass requirements, see the
website: www.mountaineers.org/seattle/navigation.
Map and compass intro clinic
May 13 & 22,
Wed. & Sat. - Intro To Map & Compass Clinic Map and compass are part of the Ten Essentials, but if
you don't know how to use them, they are worthless. Learn the basics in this
two-part program of one workshop and one field trip. Day one
- workshop at Magnuson Program Center, 6:30-9 p.m. Day two - field trip at
Discovery Park. Basic compasses and maps are provided; bring a pencil
and straight-edge. Instructor: Ken Hahn, kenh@mountaineers.org, 206-595-7237.
Class fee: $20 members, $35 non-members.
Photography
May 19, Wed. -
Potluck and Image Presentation
Monthly photography event at The Mountaineers Program Center. Socializing
begins at 6 p.m.; potluck at 6:30. Meeting and creative image show starts at
7:15 p.m. Bring a potluck dish and up to eight slides,
prints or digital images to share. Check our website at
www.mountaineers.org/seattle/photography for digital-image instructions. No
registration; just come and bring your photos. Guests are welcome. If you
haven’t been to one of our potluck image presentations, please join us as our
guest. Leader: Herb Johnson, 206-523-4544, wherbjohn@msn.com.
May 22, Sat. -
Coupeville, Whidbey Island
Photograph Victorian-era historical buildings, the Penn Cove Water Festival,
tribal canoes and dancers..Meet at 7 a.m. at the
McCollum P&R at 620 128th St. S.E., near Dumas Road in S. Everett. Drive to
Coupeville via the Whidbey Island ferry. Leader: Anita L. Elder, 206-832-1036.
(s4/19-5/21)
Retired Rovers
Chair: Wally Walton,
206-417-6385, wallywalton72@msn.com. All Mountaineers are welcome at Retired
Rovers events. For information contact the chair.
Note: In addition to events listed below, our Retired Rovers
also enjoy participating in Midweek Hikes and Naturalist Hikes (check those
sections). If you need advice on the best hikes for you, feel free to call any
of the hike leaders.
May 3, Mon. - Gas
Works Park, Fremont and Ship Canal 3
mi. Meet at 10:30 a.m. in the park’s lot at 2101 N. Northlake Way. We’ll
walk west through the park to new areas of Fremont (e.g., new sculpture of
J.P Patches and new architecturally interesting buildings). We’ll continue
on the path right along the edge of the canal. Bring snack if desired—we’ll
also stop for coffee/food. Contact leader, Cecilia Saari, to sign up/info:
206-282-2450, csaari11@msn.com.
May
11, Tue. - Brown Bag
Lunch, Meeting, Program and Walk 11
a.m. at club headquarters, bring your own “brown bag,” and we will provide
coffee and tea. Enjoy lunch with your friends and meet new ones. If weather is
good enough, all who want to can walk a section of Magnuson Park.
At this meeting you will hear about upcoming events. The program will be
presented by longtime Mountaineer Mike Aber. He will show a video of The
Mountaineers outing to the Swiss Alps in the winter of 2004, displaying winter
in St. Moritz/Pontresina and rail travel through the Alps from Eastern
Switzerland to the Matterhorn in the west, with side trips to Luzern and the
Jungfrau area.
May
13, Thu. - Washington
Arboretum 10 a.m. 3 mi. or so. A spring walk in the arboretum to see the famous Azalea Way
in bloom. We will meet at the Visitor’s Center parking lot and walk from there
through the arboretum to the S. end and back. Those who would like can
join me for lunch/snack at Fuel Coffee on 24th Ave. E. (short walk from
the arboretum). Call leader, Muriel Stoker, 206-723-5039, for information.
No registration.
May 25, Tue. - Cowen/Ravenna Parks 10 a.m. Meet at the corner of N.E. 62nd St. and
Brooklyn Ave. There is 4 hr. parking on Brooklyn. This is a 3 mi. walk through
a wonderfully forested ravine. Bring a sack lunch or get a sandwich and drink
at the Cowen Park Grocery. For driving directions call the leader, Barbara
McHargue: 206-363-6181.
Sailing
Day sails
Check
out our website at www.mountaineers.org/seattle/sailing.
Trips: First sign up online or via a call to the program
center, then contact the skipper on the following sails.
May 1, Sat. - 11
a.m. Shilshole Marina. To
Puget Sound. Catalina 42’ Blue Fin.
6 crew + skipper: Alan Vogt, 206-295-8788. (s4/20-4/29)
May 2, Sun. - 9:30
a.m. Port of Edmonds. To Puget Sound. Yankee Dolphin 24’ Poisson. 3 crew +
skipper: Carl Harrington, 206-546-0275. (s4/20-4/29)
May 2, Sun. - 11
a.m. Shilshole Marina. To
Puget Sound. Catalina 42’ Blue Fin.
6 crew + skipper: Skipper Alan Vogt, 206-295-8788. (S4/20-4/29)
May 7, Fri. - 6
p.m. Shilshole Marina. To Puget Sound.
J/92 30’ Heart
of Gold. 4 crew (plus one alternate
standby) + skipper: Mike Brough, 206-782-6892. (s4/27-5/6)
May 8, Sat. - 11
a.m. Shilshole Marina. To
Puget Sound. Catalina 42’ Blue Fin.
6 crew + skipper: Alan Vogt, 206-295-8788. (s4/27-5/6)
May 8, Sat. - 11 a.m. Elliott Bay Marina