Snowking Mountain

Date:  October 2-3, 2004

Who:  Scott and Sam

Like so many climbs originating from the Cascade River Road, covering substantial vertical on the approach is part of the game.  In this realm, Snowking Mountain does not disappoint.  At roughly 1,300ft, and 3 miles shy of the original trailhead (2,200ft.), FR 1570 is blocked first by a gigantic fallen tree and second, by a washout that eliminates 20 feet of road completely.  That's just part of the game, right?  Scott and I entered the thick shrubbery and began the ascent through the steep woods.  Flashbacks of the Eldorado approach started ringing in my head.  I told myself, "I've done that 3 times, this won't be a big deal."  At point 5,791, the climbing part of our approach to camp at Cyclone Lake was not exactly over.  For the most part, this is a no bullshit climber's trail and the vertical just keeps ticking away.  Finally on the ridge crest, we are reminded of our otherworldly surroundings...

Scott looking across to Eldorado, Torment, Forbidden and Boston Peaks (L-R)

Another hour or so of undulating ridge crest, and were are finally granted access to Cyclone Lakes.  Camping at the main lake isn't ideal due to the rocky shores, but we found a deluxe campsite between the two upper lakes, complete with firewood and a fire pit.  By the time we reached camp, we were more than ready for a swim.  Significant shrinkage ensued...  After drying off in the sun, we felt like kings.  After dinner, we took advantage of the ample fire-building material at our disposal and also took advantage of my flask of 15 year Dalwhinnie!

Did I mention it was a clear night?

Big Dipper!

We set our alarm for 6am, but that was too early for our knackered souls. 

How 'bout that for a "SNOOZE" button!

The ridge which leads to the summit block is very straightforward and has a path beaten into it for most of the way.  All the way, we're impressed by the surroundings.  Views of the Ptarmigan Traverse, the Pickett Range, Bonanza, Entiat Mountains, the Cascade Pass group, Baker, Shuksan, Rainier...we could see EVERYTHING!

...even Glacier Peak decided to join in the fun.  Mutchler Glacier in the foreground.

Another one in the bag.

After a very leisurely lunch on top, we scrambled back down the summit block and decided that another swim in the lake was in order.  To expedite the matter, we elected to boot glissade all the way to the snout of the glacier along side the ridge.  We made it to the swimming pool in just over an hour.

Our route from the summit, down the glacier, back to camp (red) and back down into the woods

Snowking Mountain:  If you are looking for an easy peak with a fairly burly approach and a location which allows views from Canada to Mt. Rainier and everything in between, you really need to check this place out!

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