February 2019 Vol. 101 | No. 2
Bulletin
Inside: Ski Descent of Mt. Hood Groundhog Day Lightweight Trail Food Snow-Free Hikes
We are the bond stronger than any rope. Everything we make is designed by climbers, for climbers. Each piece is crafted by peak and crag to give you absolute protection, comfort and mobility when you really need it.
NEXT ADVENTURE | PORTLAND W W W.RAB.EQUIPMENT
Adventure WILD & Adventure CLIMB Summer Camp Registration Now OPEN! See page 19 for more info.
FEATURES
A Proper Sendoff, p. 7 Skiing The Summit: Reflections on a December Mt. Hood Ski Descent, p. 8 Book Review: The Circadian Code, p. 14 Lightweight, Nutritious, Sustainable, Delicious, p. 20 Groundhog Day, p. 22 Greater Hells Canyon Council, p. 24 Used Equipment Sale, p. 32 Snow (but not mud!) Free Hikes for Off Season Training, p. 22
MONTHLY CONTENT
CONTACT US
Volunteer Opportunities, p. 4 Upcoming Activities, p. 5 Mazama Library Notes, p. 12 Mazama Lodge, p. 13 Saying Goodbye, p. 16 Classics, p. 17 Successful Climbers, p. 25 Membership Report, p. 26 AYM, p. 28 Travel Programs, p. 30 Outings, p. 31 Trail Trips, p.36 Executive Council, p. 38
MAZAMA MOUNTAINEERING CENTER 527 SE 43rd Ave., Portland, Oregon, 97215 Phone: 503-227-2345 adventure@mazamas.org |
ADVERTISER INDEX
PUBLICATIONS TEAM
Billie Goodwin, p. 26 Climb for Clean Air, p. 29 Ellen Gradison (Peru Trekking), p. 26 Greentrails Maps, p. 39 Next Adventure, p. 16 The Mountain Shop, p. 40 OMC, p. 31 Rab, p. 2 Yatvin Computer Consultants, p. 31
Editor: Sarah Bradham, Executive Director (mazama.bulletin@ mazamas.org) Members: Jonathan Barrett, Reymond Drew, Lindsey Garner, Brian Goldman, Darrin Gunkel, Kevin Machtelinckx, and Katie Polanshek (publications@mazamas.org)
Advertise now! tinyurl.com/ MazamaAdvertising Ascending Mt. Hood via Devil’s Kitchen Headwall October 17, 2018. Photo: Wim Aarts.
MAZAMA (USPS 334-780): Advertising: mazama.ads@mazamas.org. Subscription: $15 per year. Bulletin material must be emailed to mazama. bulletin@mazamas.org. All material is due by noon on the 14th of the preceding month. If the 14th falls on a weekend, the deadline is the preceding Friday. The Mazama Bulletin is published monthly by the Mazamas—527 SE 43rd Ave., Portland, OR 97215. Periodicals postage paid at Portland, OR. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MAZAMAS, 527 SE 43rd Ave., Portland, OR 97215. The Executive Council meets at 4 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month. Meetings are open to members. The Mazamas is a 501(c)(3) Oregon nonprofit corporation organized on the summit of Mt. Hood in 1894. The Mazamas is an equal opportunity provider.
Hours: Mon.–Thu. 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Fri. 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
MAZAMA LODGE 30500 West Leg Rd., Government Camp, Ore, 97028; Phone: 503-272-9214 Hours: Thu. Noon–Sun. Noon
SARAH BRADHAM Acting Executive Director sarah@mazamas.org ERICA STOCK Development Director ericastock@mazamas.org MATHEW BROCK Library & Historical Collections Manager mathew@mazamas.org LAURA BURGER Development Coordinator lauraburger@ mazamas.org CHARLES BARKER Mazama Lodge Manager mazama.lodge@ mazamas.org
RENEE FITZPATRICK Finance & Office Coordinator reneefitzpatrick@ mazamas.org MOLLY MOSENTHAL Youth Program Coordinator mollymosenthal@ mazamas.org CLAIRE NELSON Youth & Outreach Manager clairenelson@ mazamas.org JUSTIN ROTHERHAM Education & Activities Program Manager justinrotherham@ mazamas.org KELSEY SHAW Member Services Administrator kelseyshaw@mazamas.org
FEBRUARY 2019 3
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES MMC FACILITIES VOLUNTEER Looking for a different kind of volunteer opportunity with the Mazamas? Want to get a deeper look behind the scenes about how to keep the Mazama Mountaineering Center up and running? Want to learn all you’d ever want to know (and possibly more) about the current state of recycling? Well, we’ve got the volunteer niche for you. Our Building Manager, Rick Craycraft, needs help! The flexibility of this commitment is almost open-ended. We will provide training, possibly hand off certain responsibilities directly and work with you to find out how your interest level and skills can be put to use in the service of our organization. Please email leftfield5@juno.com.
SALESFORCE SPECIALIST Do you work with Salesforce in your daily life? Would you consider yourself to be intermediate or advanced with writing reports and adding rollups? Are you interested in volunteering your time with the Mazamas? Then we are interested in talking with you about how you could assist us in maximizing our new database.
OFFICE VOLUNTEERS Are you looking for a fun and interactive way to get to know the Mazama community and programming better? Do you find yourself with free time during the week?
Apply today to be a Mazama Office Volunteer! Office Volunteers support staff with everything from answering phones and emails to organizing supplies and helping to manage our database. At the Mazama Mountaineering Center, Office Volunteers are often the first face, and voice, that members and nonmembers interact with, so if you are a friendly person who’s looking to share your inspiration to love and protect the mountains, we want you! Apply at tinyurl.com/mmcofficevolunteer.
BULLETIN DELIVERY DRIVER We are in need of a small team of volunteers to take on the task of delivering the monthly Bulletins to our local partners. Deliveries take place during the first week of the month and, if done alone, the route takes about 3 hours to complete. Volunteers must have their own means of transportation, but will be eligible for parking meter and mileage reimbursements. Please contact kelsey@mazamas.org if you are interested.
YOUTH OUTREACH VOLUNTEERS Do you enjoy working with youth? Do you enjoy climbing and sharing that passion with others? The Mazamas Youth Outreach Climbing program is in need of volunteer belayers and climbing instructors at Youth Outreach Climbing events. These events occur periodically, predominantly in winter and spring, all days of the week, and all hours of the day. Sign up for one, or for many! Contact molly@mazamas.org to learn more.
LIBRARY ARCHIVE ASSISTANTS Library assistants help move library books back into circulation, which includes sorting materials, verifying the order of books on shelves, and other tasks. Archive assistants help with processing, preservation, and reference requests. Volunteers should have an interest in mountaineering history, basic computer skills, and a willingness to do repetitive tasks, including putting items into alphabetical, numerical, and chronological order. Experience with standard library and archival practices help, but not required. Please contact Mathew Brock, Mazama Library and Historical Collections at mathew@mazamas.org to learn more.
4 MAZAMAS
If you are interested in any of these roles, email volunteer@mazamas.org.
DONATE YOUR WARM CLOTHING Last year, through your generous contributions, the Mazamas donated almost 500 lbs. worth of warm clothing to Mainspring, a nonprofit in Portland that addresses economic hardship including food insecurity for families and seniors. Help our Portland neighbors again this winter! The Mazamas will be accepting donations through March. Drop off items in the box in the MMC lobby. What is needed? Usable clean, warm clothing Wearable shoes Clean blankets Sleeping bags Backpacks & bags Tents
Please drop off clean and usable items only.
UPCOMING ACTIVITIES & EVENTS TWO DAYS! BACKCOUNTRY FILM FESTIVAL FEB. 1 & 2, 6–9 P.M. AT THE MMC
This event ALWAYS sells out! To make sure we accommodate everyone who wants to attend, this year we are hosting the BFF on two nights at the MMC. From our earliest days leading backcountry excursions to our modern day adventures and activities, the Mazamas has been on a mission to inspire everyone to love and protect the mountains. Join us this February as we join forces with Winter Wildlands Alliance to celebrate the wonderland that our backcountry becomes during winter. This year’s film line-up is epic, so be ready for a snowy, cinematic adventure sure to inspire both the local backcountry and general communities. We will be showing select films from this year’s Festival, which may include Ode to Muir, Ski the Wild West, The Abbey, Abandoned, and more! Tickets: $15 (mazamas.org/calendar)
LEAD CLIMBING: SPORT
MARCH 27–APRIL 7; REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 30
This course focuses on the skills needed to safely lead single pitch, sport routes. Students will learn skills to prepare for leading routes, clipping bolts, communicating while climbing and belaying, and safely coming down from sport routes.
CANYONEERING
MAY 30–AUGUST 11; REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 21
This six-week course includes weekly lectures and two field sessions. The lectures will provide an overview of canyoneering, introduce canyonspecific topics and techniques, and prepare students for the class field sessions. An optional, late-summer outing will be offered to course graduates.
MAZAMA CLIMB LEADERS The Climbing Committee has scheduled the following classes for climb leaders to update their qualifications. You can find all of the climb leader classes and register at mazamas.org/calendar/education/ ▶▶ Climb Leader Avalanche Training: February 7 & 9 ▶▶ Climb Leader Update: Saturday & Sunday, February 23 & 24 at Mazama Lodge ▶▶ Climb Leader Crevasse Rescue: Saturday, March 2 at Timberline ▶▶ Climb Leader High-Angle Rescue Recert: Saturday, May 4 at the MMC (HA) ▶▶ Climb Leader High-Angle Rescue Full Course: May 22, 29, June 1 and 2.
BECOME A PART OF MAZAMA HISTORY Nominating Committee is searching for people who care about the direction the Mazamas are going and want to use their leadership skills to help direct that movement. If you would be interested in serving on Executive Council, or if there is someone you would like to nominate to stand for election, please email your name or your nominee’s name to nominating@ mazamas.org. Are you interested in leadership, but not quite ready for the limelight of Executive Council? Consider serving on Nominating Committee! If you’d like to join this integral facet of the election process, send your name to nominating@mazamas.org.
FEBRUARY 2019 5
MAZAMAS QUASQUICENTENNIAL CHALLENGE!
T
o celebrate the Mazamas quasquicentennial we challenge you to hike, climb, snowshoe or ramble 125 miles in 2019! The challenge is a great way to get in shape, stay in shape, and meet other Mazamas while exploring the Pacific Northwest. While we encourage you to strive to reach 125 miles, we know that may not be possible or reasonable for everyone. There are several levels in which you can take part: 75, 100, and 125 miles. We will have rewards for each of the three levels completed. The challenge runs from now until Sept 30, 2019. Registration is currently open and will remain open until May 1, 2019. Go here for registration, rules, and inspiration: http://bit.ly/Maz125mile
Look for additional Mazamas 125th anniversary activities, events, and merchandise over the next 9 months. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with our members and the community!
6 MAZAMAS
A Proper Sendoff by Mathew Brock, Library & Historical Collections Manager
T
he Mazamas bid farewell to Lee Davis on Sunday, January 13 at the Mazama Mountaineering Center. Roughly sixty members and staff gathered to mingle and celebrate Lee’s time as Executive Director. The festivities started with a social hour at 2 p.m., followed with a short formal program at 3:30 p.m. Mazama President Laura Pigion got things started by thanking Lee for his many years of service to the organization, first as a climb leader, then as parttime member services manager, and later as Executive Director. Acting Executive Director Sarah Bradham followed by recounting her time working with Lee on a variety of different projects over the years. Past Executive Director Peggie Schwarz and past Presidents Steve Hooker and Chris Kruell also spoke about Lee’s time as Executive Director. All three praised Lee for his hard work and dedication. Steve Hooker summed it up well when he said, “If there is one word to describe Lee’s time at the Mazamas, it is ‘growth.’” Steve went on to say that when Lee started, the Mazamas was a regional climbing club without much influence in local or national issues related to climbing and mountaineering. Now, due to Lee’s efforts, the Mazamas not only have a seat at the table, more often than not the Mazamas are at the head of the table when decisions are made. Marty Hanson then led the assembled gathering in a toast to his continued success.
“
In his brief remarks, Lee noted that he began his Mazama journey like many others, as a volunteer. When the opportunity arose for the part-time member services position, he jumped at the chance to learn more about the organization. At the time Lee was also working as an electrical engineer, and he found as he became more involved with the Mazamas it turned into more than a job, it became a passion. He related that his time as Executive Director of the Mazamas has been the highest honor of his life. While the job came with plenty of challenges, it has given him many opportunities for growth both personally and professionally. Lee ended by noting that the Mazamas is stronger than ever and is on track for even greater things. As a parting gift, the Mazamas presented Lee with a framed print, formerly on display in his office, of his favorite climbing destination—Chamonix, France. Affixed to the back of the print is a card with farewell messages from those in attendance of the celebration.
If there is one word to describe Lee’s time at the Mazamas, it is ‘growth.’” –Steve Hooker, past Mazama President
From left: Acting Executive Director Sarah Bradham, former Executive Director Lee Davis, and former Executive Director Peggie Schwarz
FEBRUARY 2019 7
Skiing the Summit
Reflections on a December Mt. Hood Ski Descent Article by Jordan Machtelinckx. Photos by Kevin Machtelinckx.
F
araway sounds wake me periodically from a fitful sleep. Giant machines meander around the empty parking lot, putting my REM cycles just out of reach each time they rumble by. Through my iced-up windows I can see windblown snow pass under glowing streetlamps. The wind creaks as it passes between the glass and the metal of my frozen-half-shut window. I continue to straddle the worlds of the waking and that of dreams as I drift off a few more times. A sharp knock on my window scares the sleep away for good. Assuming that’s my brother bundled up in the dark out there, then it must be five o’clock. I’ve slept in this parking lot at Timberline Lodge a number of times before, and I fall into the same ritual of emotions brought by an alpine start in December. It’s cold. I’m tired. Maybe this was a bad idea. I could be in a real bed. There are many key attributes to the perfect climbing partner, but the most important one right now is that it’s someone who holds you accountable to
8 MAZAMAS
get up at a ridiculous hour, in a ridiculous place, to do a ridiculous thing, when the last bits of slumber inject an ominous sense of doom into the day’s undertaking. I force down a pre-dawn granola breakfast and reward myself with as many sips of thermos-tepid coffee as I can force into my waking body. Freezing fog gently coats my sleeping bag with ice crystals and going back to bed becomes significantly less appealing. Packs are closed. The beeps from our avalanche beacons are swallowed by the gloomy dark of the overflow parking lot. I realize I’ve got more neighbors now than when I went to bed in the back of my
Element. Lights flicker on through foggy windows in one car. Another van lays newly empty as its owner also starts his way toward the edge of the parking lot; the first steps toward the frequently-sought summit of Oregon’s Mt. Hood. Clicking into my bindings, I tune into the music playing through the wires from my pocket to try to pass the time slogging through the last trees and onto the slopes. I’m not wearing a watch today, but the milestones are familiar. Breaking through the final trees: scrambled thoughts contained within the ring of my headlamp on the snow.
Photo: Kevin Machtelinckx.
Passing by the rime-covered Silcox Hut: doubt. Starting up along the Palmer express lift: anxiety. I see climbers’ headlamps shining through the last siege of darkness above, hours ahead of us. Maybe we should have started earlier, too. A rest near the Palmer lift house—the highest outpost of civilization, past which hikers become climbers. I watch as daybreak washes away the self-doubt. Rays of sunlight illuminate safe, mellow skies. Not much further up, climbers who have reached the summit are passing us on their way back to the waking lodge, now 3,000 feet below. I leave my self-doubt below Illumination Rock as I enter the spectacular, rime-encrusted cirque of the summit crater. We are now committed to a summit attempt, graced with pleasant weather and agreeable snow conditions, and my rational mind knows that selfdoubt has no place in this final 1,500 feet of technical terrain. The question is no longer “if,” let alone “why,” but “how.” Which of the many routes up the final headwall will present us with the optimal balance of challenge and safe
passage? We opt for an exciting attempt on the spectacular Pearly Gates, climbing a few hundred feet of steep, deep snow into a narrowing couloir. The right Gate is occupied by a slow-moving rope team, and melting chunks of ice from the sunlit cliffs above warn us that we have no time to wait around. I ascend the left Gate, hoping it goes, because I dread downclimbing our steep, unconsolidated boot track extending below. But alas, I’m stopped by a six-foot vertical wall of hard, blue ice. The longer I debate whether I should attempt it, the more I realize my forearms may not hold out long enough. The obstacle is spectacular, well-featured. A boulder problem of ice. I want to climb it, but more importantly I want to have climbed it. I want to push the threshold of my climbing past this icy couloir. I take a few steps toward the feature, shattering holds with the tips of my ice tools. I search for solid foot placements, but my calves are burning. I reach up, hesitate, and reach down. I want to be good enough. I want to live up to my expectations. But my instincts
know better. I’m tired. My pack is heavy. One slip and the weight of the skis on my back will catapult me off the wall, tumbling a thousand feet into the summit crater. It would be foolish. I curse myself for not bringing a rope and ice screws to make an attempt realistic. I immediately thank myself for leaving them behind since we made good time without the extra weight. I am terrified of the downclimb out of this couloir. I am wrestling with the thought that I may have sacrificed our summit because of my selfish desire to climb a route that is beyond me. My mind is running wild but I am still clinging to the steep ice by the metal tips of my crampons and tools. I acknowledge the rampant emotions and set them aside, one by one. They have no place here. I have a job to do and I know how to do it. Nothing else matters until I get back to the ledge below the couloir. Downclimbing seems endless. I hate my footholds and my ice tools plunge deep into useless powder.
continued on next page FEBRUARY 2019 9
Photos: Kevin Machtelinckx.
Ski Descent, continued from previous page We meet back at the ledge. I think we both know it was my lust for the Gates that cost us an hour and a half in that couloir. Our skis will save us hours on the descent compared with our previous bootpacking attempts on this mountain, so we agree to make a second attempt up the Old Chute, where most parties are summitting today. I let Kevin take the lead across the wide-open slope. I’m not going to let my ego fuck this one up, too. The slope steepens, the chutes narrow, and we pick our way through the final rime formations to the summit ridge. Two hundred easy meters take us to a breezy summit, where we realize our fingers are frigid and we have no time to waste. The summit is the halfway mark to safety. Long, deep breaths lower my heart rate from its frenzied battle against 11,241 feet of thinning air. I have to maintain control of my body so it can keep me safe as I cross a dizzying 20 meters of one-slip-and-you’re-dead knife-edge summit ridge to gain the descent chute. The steep, soft snow is a cakewalk after that. We find the highest spot to feasibly transition to skis, as skiing off the true summit is impossible for us amateurs. Perspectives change in downhill mode. Steep slopes which intimidate the uphill climber in me now appear as ideal ski terrain. My interface with the mountain changes as I now want to be sliding across its surface. I distance myself from the summit, with no more desire to be there. I ski back toward the lodge, my car. To civilization, to safety, to satisfaction and self-fulfillment. Away from fear, self-doubt, and primal danger. Back down to where I may find the courage to face my demons once again on another dark, cold morning with my brother knocking at my window. Wake up. We’re going climbing.
FEBRUARY 2019 11
MAZAMA LIBRARY
Established in 1915, the Mazama Library is nationally recognized as holding one of the top mountaineering collections in the country. Located on the ground floor of the Mazama Mountaineering Center, the library is a fantastic resource for members and the general public to find information on hiking, climbing, camping, and exploring the rich history of regional and global mountaineering culture.
Learn more about the Library & Historical Collection at mazamas.org/library ▶▶ Voices from Bears Ears: Seeking common ground on Sacred Land, by Rebecca Robinson, 2018. Through the stories of twenty individuals, and informed by interviews with more than seventy people, Voices from Bears Ears captures the passions of those who fought to protect Bears Ears and those who opposed the monument as a federal “land grab” that threatened to rob them of their economic future. It gives voice to those who have felt silenced, ignored, or disrespected. It shares stories of those who celebrate a growing movement by Indigenous peoples to protect ancestral lands and culture, and those who speak devotedly about their Mormon heritage. What unites these individuals is a reverence for a homeland that defines their cultural and spiritual identity, and therein lies hope for finding common ground. Call # 917.92 R56
TREASURES FROM THE SPECIAL COLLECTION
NEW RELEASES AND ADDITIONS
▶▶ Black Faces, White Spaces, by Carolyn Finney, 2014. Why are African Americans so underrepresented when it comes to interest in nature, outdoor recreation, and environmentalism? In this thoughtprovoking study, Carolyn Finney looks beyond the discourse of the environmental justice movement to examine how the natural environment has been understood, commodified, and represented by both white and black Americans. Bridging the fields of environmental history, cultural studies, critical race studies, and geography, Finney argues that the legacies of slavery, Jim Crow, and racial violence have shaped cultural understandings of the “great outdoors” and determined who should and can have access to natural spaces. Call # 304 F49 ▶▶ Wilderness: The Gateway to the Soul, by Scott Stillman, 2018. Through his deeply poetic and wildly provocative tale of personal transformation, Scott Stillman takes us on a spiritual journey, away from a chaotic world of details, obligations, smartphones and noisy machines, to a place that is unspoiled, untamed, free. Mostly solo, he guides us deeply into American Wilderness. There is heart-wrenching beauty. Undeniable presence. In the cracks and fissures of the Earth, we uncover timeless wisdom, ancient magic, and a Gateway to the Soul. Here we learn who we truly are. Beneath all the layers, the labels, the stories, the myths. Come on in. The door is wide open. To all who wish to wander. Call # 796.52 St5
12 MAZAMAS
▶▶ Voyages dans les Alps: precedes d’un essai l’historie naturelle des envions de Geneve, (Travels in the Alps: preceded by an essay on the natural history of the surroundings of Geneva), by Horace Benedict de Saussere, 1788. This set of four volumes, the oldest books in the Mazama Library Special Collection, details Saussere’s travels, climbs and scientific studies of the Swiss Alps. He saw the Alps as the grand key to the true theory of the earth, and they gave him the opportunity to study geology in a manner never previously attempted. Saussure had a thorough knowledge of the chemistry of the day and applied it to the study of minerals, water and air. His geological observations made him a firm believer in the Neptunian theory: He regarded all rocks and minerals as deposited from aqueous solution or suspension, and attached much importance to the study of meteorological conditions. His work with rocks, erosion, and fossils also led him to believe that the earth was much older than generally thought and formed part of the basis of Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. Call # 917.98. S92 Vol 1–4, noncirculating, reference only.
MAZAMA LODGE DID YOU KNOW? ▶▶ Canaval Hill, in Oklahoma, is claimed to be the highest hill in the world at 1,999 ft., another foot and it would be considered a mountain. ▶▶ Kitt’s Peak in Arizona is home to the largest solar telescope in the world. ▶▶ The Bob Marshall Wilderness contains the most remote hiking in the Rocky Mountains. ▶▶ Colorado has fifty-four peaks over 14,000 feet.
BOOKS ON EXPLORING SPAIN ▶▶ Walking the Sierras of Extremadura: 32 half and full day walks in western Spain, Wood, 914.6 w85 ▶▶ Walks in Basque Country: France and Spain, Chadwick, 914.466 C34 ▶▶ Portugal, St. Luis, 914.469 S1
THE MAZAMA LIBRARY NEEDS SUPPORT— FROM YOU! Do you or someone you know have vintage mountaineering gear that is looking for a home? Don’t give it to Goodwill, donate it to the Mazama Library and Historical Collections! We are always on the lookout for wood handle ice axes, early climbing gear, vintage catalogs, turn of the century photographs, early mountaineering books, and more. Please contact library manager Mathew Brock at mathew@mazamas.org to discuss potential donations. We apologize, but we cannot accept any Mazama Annuals published after 1925 or National Geographic magazines. Please consider a financial contribution to support the Mazama Library, a nationally recognized collection and one of the few remaining mountaineering libraries in the United States. Your financial donation will help support our full-time librarian, acquire rare mountaineering books and historic photographs, and maintain our valuable archives and historic objects collections. Thank you for your support.
Are you ready to support the Mazama Library? Go to mazamas.org/donate and select Library & Historical Collections.
Lodge Musings & Happenings by Charles Barker, Mazama Lodge Manager A huge thank you to Ellen Urbani and her family who hosted this year’s New Year’s event at Mazama Lodge! A great time was had by all. Longtime Mazama member Joan Schultz who had previously hosted New Years’ for more than 30 years enjoyed this New Year’s even more knowing that Ellen Urbani is continuing the tradition of a family friendly New Year’s. Please be aware that Saturday, February 9 Mazama Lodge is closed all day for exclusive use for Adventurous Young Mazamas (AYM) Winter Weekend. This is the only Saturday we are closed for the entire day. The rest of the month we are open on Saturday until 3 p.m. when Mazama groups who have rented the lodge have exclusive use. We are also open Thursdays, Fridays, (except February 8) and Sundays throughout the month. We will also be open Monday night of President’s Day weekend, closing Tuesday at 9 a.m. This year’s Winter Family Festival is once again being hosted by Mark Seeker and his boys, and it will be held on Saturday, March 9. This is a free event open to the Mazama Community; meals are available for purchase.
WINTER FAMILY FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES ▶▶ The Outside Grill Opens; lunch served from noon–1:30 p.m. ▶▶ Enjoy a visit to the Rootbeer Garden ▶▶ Snow sculpture contest, sledding, birkebeiner 3K nordic race/ski ▶▶ Bavarian Banquet at Awards (dinner $13.25 for adults; $8 for kids 12 and under) at 5 p.m. ▶▶ Fondue, Sausages, Pasta, and flaming Mt. Hood cake. ▶▶ Folks Dancing Lessons with a live band at 6 p.m.
Ellen Urbani’s family gets ready for 2019! Photo: Ellen Urbani
FEBRUARY 2019 13
Book Review
THE CIRCADIAN CODE by Satchin Panda, PhD
A
Review by Brian Goldman s mountaineers and hikers, we all want to maintain or lose weight, supercharge our energy and improve our overall health. The burgeoning field of circadian rhythms is gaining traction as a means to doing just that. The Circadian Code, a recent book by Satchin Panda, one of the most influential scientists in this field, is engaging for lay people who want to learn more about this discipline. Circadian rhythms are physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a daily cycle. They respond primarily to light and darkness in an organism’s environment. Sleeping at night and being awake during the day is an example of a light-related circadian rhythm. Chronic misalignment between our lifestyle and the rhythm dictated by our inner timekeeper is associated with increased risk for various diseases. The field of circadian rhythm has scientific credibility. In fact, the 2017 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Jeffrey C. Hall, Michael Rosbash and Michael W. Young for their research of the molecular mechanisms controlling circadian rhythm. Dr. Panda discovered that not only what and how much we eat matters, but when we eat matters. His research is startling—he compared mice that are allowed to eat fatty and sugary foods all day and night long with mice that eat the same diet, but only within an 8- to 12-hour period and found that mice that eat the same number of calories from the same foods within 12 hours or less are completely protected from obesity, diabetes, liver and heart disease. BUT FOR HUMANS? AMONG DR. PANDA’S ASSERTIONS: ▶▶ Avoid shift-work if at all possible since disrupting your circadian clock can make your immune system so weak that germs and bugs will cause flu-like symptoms. ▶▶ Bright lights and bright screens at night disrupt our circadian rhythm and reduce the production of the sleep hormone melatonin. ▶▶ Every time we eat, the fat-making program turns on and the cells in our liver and muscles create fat and store it. To burn fat, organs must realize that no more food
14 MAZAMAS
is coming their way, which happens a few hours after your last meal. So, if diets haven’t worked for you before, timing might be the reason. Just set a routine and stick with it, presumably eating during an 8- or at most 11-hour window (called Time Restricted Eating - TRE) starting with breakfast— only 10 percent of adults eat within a 12-hour window! ▶▶ Moderate physical activity or even regular stretching improves sleep onset, quality and duration and reduces dependence on sleep medications. But what about the Paleo, Atkins, Ketogenic, low-carb, vegan, sugar-free, or Mediterranean diets? Dr. Panda says you don’t have to worry about them—timing is everything with some exceptions (see below). When you eat is as important as what you eat. If you just eat your calories preferably within an 8- to 11-hour TRE window, those cookies or deep-fried foods will be less appetizing, plus you will lose weight. Eating bigger meals during the day and refraining from eating at night will
But what about the Paleo, Atkins, Ketogenic, lowcarb, vegan, sugar-free, or Mediterranean diets? Dr. Panda says you don’t have to worry about them— timing is everything with some exceptions (see below). When you eat is as important as what you eat.
enable weight loss, especially if you can restrict eating to an 8- or 9-hour window, the author claims. He discovered that when mice ate a healthy diet within 8 to 10 hours, they gradually increased their muscle mass, and after 36 weeks, they had 10-15 percent more muscle mass than mice that ate whenever they wanted. It is still important, however, to eat healthy foods. Dr. Panda says there are 7 Rules of Successful TRE People: no soda; no pre packaged fruit or vegetable juices which contain preservatives; no sugary breakfast cereals; no energy, protein, or fruit-and-nut bars; no processed foods that contain corn syrup, fructose or sucrose; no dark or hot chocolate in the evening (caffeine); and no commercially processed nut butters which have added sugar or oil. Eat no more than 2 ounces(!) of protein a day. Choose complex carbohydrates. Eat healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fats. Other important suggestions: Since light from a computer screen or smartphone can suppress melatonin and disturb sleep, reduce the brightness of these screens at a set time in the evening. Avoid late-night meals. Exercise in the morning to increase alertness, reduce depression, increase fat-burning potential and raise cortisol which lowers inflammation. Late afternoon or evening exercise will reduce appetite, burn calories and boost muscles’ ability to absorb blood glucose. Circadian disruption leads to a bewildering range of illnesses, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome, obesity, high blood pressure, chronic inflammation, bacterial infection, breast cancer, depression, and poor motor coordination. Shift work is especially unhealthy, and can lead to gastric and duodenal ulcers, among other maladies. In the interest of science, I began eating during a 10-hour Time Restricted Eating window (easier said than done—try not snacking after 6 p.m.). I lost four pounds in two weeks and have maintained that weight loss; however, I’m not certain if the weight loss is due to being in sync with my circadian rhythm or just eating fewer calories. Dr. Panda explains in simple terms how our bodies are designed to work, and how following our natural circadian code will help us achieve optimal health and well-being throughout our lives. He backs up his claims with vast amounts of research, including 16 pages from peer-reviewed journals. Wish to participate in research related to circadian rhythms? Download https://mycircadianclock.org/ This app, sponsored by the Salk Institute, helps you keep track of daily behaviors important for maintaining a healthy life, such as eating, sleeping, moving, and taking supplements and medications. Data that you share through the app as part of a research study will help researchers understand how daily timing of these behaviors influence health and well-being. At the same time, the app provides personalized insights into your daily rhythms.
FEBRUARY 2019 15
Saying Goodbye DR. EDWARD “ED” MCANINCH
November 9, 1925–December 27, 2018
Longtime Mazama Dr. Edward “Ed” McAninch passed away on December 27, 2018. He was 93 years old. Known as an enthusiastic outdoorsman, Ed joined the Mazamas in 1966. Besides climbing, Ed hiked with the Osprey’s and was active with Boy Scout Troop 312. Fellow Mazama Ray Sheldon remembers meeting Ed on a climb of North and Middle Sister in the late 1960s. During the climb, a fellow mountaineer fell and broke his pelvis. Ed, a trained medical doctor, stayed with the man during the descent, providing care and camaraderie to a fellow climber. Ed earned his Guardian Peak award in 1966, his Seven Oregon Peaks award in 1970, and his 16 Northwest Peaks award in 1978. Ed and his wife of 66 years, Eddie, traveled the world extensively, with Ed’s adventures taking him to all seven continents over the course of his lifetime. In 1976 Ed stepped up to help lead a Mazama Outing to the Swiss Alps after the unexpected death of the outing leader in a car crash. Working with a foreign exchange student he knew, Ed was able to make the necessary arrangements and communicate with both the Swiss and the French. Ed served on the Climbing Committee between 1971–1974. In the early 1980s, Ed helped revive the mountain rescue group that eventually became known as Portland Mountain Rescue. Ed was very proud to have helped save volunteer-based mountain rescue on Mount Hood. He served on the Mazama Executive Council between 1983 to 1985, serving as secretary in 1985. Ed was a staunch defender of the environment and participated actively in political demonstrations. While on the council, he helped facilitate the Ellis Trust. The trust awarded twelve thousand dollars that year to protect areas on the Sandy and Deschutes Rivers as well as buy the tract of land to preserve the Pillars of Hercules in the Columbia River Gorge. In 1988 he served as chair of the Bylaws Committee and was a member of the Nordic Committee. Ed remained active in the Mazamas, attending many Classic events and luncheons in recent years. In keeping with his love of the outdoors in general and the Pacific Northwest in particular, his family will host an outdoor celebration of life in the spring of 2019. 16 MAZAMAS
Top: Ed in the mountains, undated. Middle: From left—Ed McAninich, Dick Miller, and Jack Grauer at the Annual Celebration in May 2018. Right: Ed, undated.
SUSAN NELSON-JONES
February 6, 1933–December 20, 2018 by Keith Mischke Mazama Susan Jones-Nelson passed away Dec. 20, 2018 at the age of eighty-five. She was born on February 6, 1933, in Vancouver, Washington and passed away in Bend, Oregon after a short illness. Her 85 years was a life lived to the fullest! A defining event in her life occurred as a teenager when she was selected as a counselor at Camp Tamarack in the central Oregon Cascades. Being a city girl this was her first real exposure to the out-of-doors. She was immediately taken in by the beauty of the forests, mountains, and rivers. The rest of her life reflected this love. Susan had four daughters: Shannon, Heather, Kelly, and Erin, in which she instilled the love of the beauty of nature. Susan was a teacher in the Portland area schools. She was a talented artist specializing in pottery, quilting, beading, and painting. Susan was an avid reader enjoying many subjects. Susan joined the Mazamas in 1976 after climbing Mount St. Helens. With the Mazamas she served on the Banquet, Nordic Skiing, Whitewater and Outing committees and was elected to the Executive Council in 1984. She taught climbing, nordic skiing, and whitewater rafting. She was selected to be a climb leader when there were not many women leading climbs. She led many new members on their official membership climb. It was during this time that she met Mazama Lon Nelson. They were married on June 18, 1988. After her climbing career was over she and Lon enjoyed traveling in the Southwest in their RV, taking cruises around the world, and admiring the views from their home on the Deschutes River. Her many Mazama friend’s lives were enriched by knowing this very capable lady.
CLASSICS For Mazamas with 25 years or more of membership or those who prefer to travel at a more leisurely pace. CONTACTING THE CLASSICS If you wish to contact the Classics, you can call or email Chair Flora Huber at 503-658-5710 or flobell17@comcast.net.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED We are looking for volunteers to step up and help run the committee. Positions we need to fill are secretary, activities coordinator, and database updater, and help or backup for same. Our meetings are the fourth Monday of every other month at 11 a.m. at the MMC. Email classics@mazamas.org if you are interested. Monday, Jan. 28, 2019 will be the next meeting.
LEADING EVENTS IN MARCH Send details to classics@mazamas.org by the twelfth of each month for inclusion in the Bulletin.
CLASSICS TRANSPORTATION PLAN Our east side transportation pick up point is Gateway; our west side location is the Sunset Transit Center. If you are interested in providing or receiving rides to Classics events, you can sign up on the Classics section of the Mazama website or contact our transportation coordinator Flora Huber at flobell17@comcast.net or 503-658-5710.
CREATING/UPDATING YOUR WEB PROFILE With the Mazama website now fully launched, all are reminded to go to the website (www.mazamas.org) and update your profile. You need to establish a new account if you’ve not used the updated site before. Click on login then in the upper right hand corner click on sign up. You can get the details on creating your account at mazamas.org/gettingstarted.
FEBRUARY 2019 17
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES CANYONEERING CLASS
Registration Opens March 15
Canyoneering (or “canyoning”) is the sport of exploring canyons using a variety of techniques such as scrambling, climbing, rappelling, wading and swimming. The term usually refers to the descent of technical canyons requiring ropes, harnesses, and other specialized gear. Like mountain peaks, canyons vary widely in level of difficulty - ranging from the easy hike-through variety to the extremely technical. Dry canyons are generally easier in terms of rigging and preparation compared to those which contain flowing water. The more water that is present, the more difficult the canyon. Canyoneering is practiced all over the world, although is most well known in Europe and the United States. It’s a sport that is rapidly growing in popularity. In North America, most people associate canyoneering with the famous slot canyons of the Colorado Plateau, although it’s also being practiced in the Rocky Mountains, The Sierras, Arizona, British Columbia, Mexico, Hawaii, and here in the Cascades. With one of the greatest concentrations of waterfalls in the world, canyoneering is a natural fit for the Pacific Northwest. Prerequisites: This is not a class for beginners. The ideal applicant will have Intermediate Climb School (ICS) or equivalent training / experience. Participants must be able to build an anchor and safely execute a basic rappel without supervision. The ideal participant will be familiar with the basic principles of anchor building, belaying, common knots, rope management, wilderness navigation, first aid, and be a competent swimmer. Some canyons require rugged off-trail approaches and bushwhacking. Schedule: Students will attend five lectures and two field sessions. Lectures will introduce participants to planning a canyon trip with a discussion of gear, water protection, ethics, hazards, and good practices. Students will be introduced to Single Rope Technique (SRT), the concept of setting the length, rope blocks, releasable rigging, and more. ▶▶ Lectures: May 30, June 6, June 13, June 27, and July 11. ▶▶ Field Sessions (there are two field sessions; students will pick one day from Session 1 and one day from Session 2): Session 1 options: June 15, 16, 22 or 23. Session 2 options: July 6, 7, 13 or 14. Location: Mazama Mountaineering Center and local creeks. Tuition: $225 members / $290 non-members. Full Details: mazamas.org/canyoneering
18 MAZAMAS
ADVENTURE WILD & ADVENTURE CLIMB REGISTRATION OPEN!
by Molly Mosenthal, Adventure WILD Camp Manager January 15, 2019 marked the opening of registration for the 8th year of Adventure WILD Summer Day Camp, and the 1st year of Adventure CLIMB Overnight Camp.
E
ach summer, Mazamas welcomes campers ages 4–10 for week long camp sessions, where they will experience their urban and wild environments through hands-on science experiments, art, and play at the Mazama Mountaineering Center (MMC), Laurelhurst Park, and Mazama Lodge at Mt. Hood. New this year, select camp groups will also adventure to Mount Tabor and Kelley Point Park. To top off the week, each session includes one or two days of indoor rock climbing at the MMC. Campers try to scale the Mazama climbing wall, while belayed by Mazama volunteers. Newly expanded this year, our older campers will have the opportunity to spend an overnight at Mazama Lodge every week! This year, we’re excited to expand to nine full sessions of Adventure WILD, including a Spring Break Camp session running March 25–29th, 2019, as well as WILD Winter Days on weekend and in-service days throughout winter 2019. With different themes weekly, from WILD Builders & Creators to WILD Hunters & Gatherers, campers will learn how to shelter themselves from the elements, build erupting volcanoes, create nature art, and experience the freedom and joy of limitless outdoor play. Now in its 8th year, many dedicated Adventure WILD’ers are aging out of Adventure WILD, which serves young Mazamas ages 4–10 years. “What next?” asked the eager climbers and adventurers. “Adventure CLIMB!” we answered.
The newest Mazama Youth Program, Adventure CLIMB! is an overnight summer camp for young adventurers ages 11–18. Based at the Mazama Lodge on the slopes of Mt. Hood, campers will take day trips to local Mt. Hood crags and trails to refine and learn new outdoor climbing skills. On the final night of each session, campers will camp under the stars and celebrate a great week of climbing and adventuring around the campfire. Youth programming is an important pillar of the Mazamas’ mission of everyone outside loving and protecting the mountains. With registration now open and selling fast, Mazamas camp programs will expose up to 428 young people to the wonders of the natural world, the thrill of rock climbing, and the wild of the
mountains. Experiences like these build a foundation of appreciation that can translate into a love for the outdoors and an inspiration to protect our wild lands for years to come. We can’t wait to see your young ones at camp this year! Find more information and register at adventurewild.org/register for Adventure WILD or mazamas.org/adventureclimb for Adventure CLIMB. Don’t forget to use your Mazama member discount by entering code MAZAMAS2019 at checkout to receive $35 off registration. If you have any questions about Adventure WILD or Adventure CLIMB camp programming, please contact Molly Mosenthal, Camp Manager, at molly@ mazamas.org. FEBRUARY 2019 19
Lightweight, Nutritious, Sustainable, Delicious by Ali Gray
I
f you’re anything like me, you get super hungry when you’re out in the backcountry. After a long day of backpacking or climbing, all I want is to sit down to a hot meal and load up on calories. An outdoor meal should leave me feeling satisfied and happy. Food that’s local, created sustainably, tastes great, and doesn’t break the bank is a definite plus. When you’re craving a burger, fries, and a cold beer, re-hydrating a package of freeze-dried mediocre linguine from the store can be a bit of a letdown. But it doesn’t have to be! There are tons of options for do-ityourself adventure food, and just as many non-corporate, tastier options than the wall of Mountain House at REI.
ENTER: THE DEHYDRATOR. You can pick one of these up for pretty cheap (around $60 from many online stores), and they’re well worth the investment. Any beginner knows a home dehydrator is perfect for dried fruit of any kind. Apple rings (tip: cut the apple through the core for pretty star patterns in your rings), banana chips, mango, kiwi, strawberry, the list goes on. Feeling adventurous? Try adding some spices—spicy dried mango, anyone? Home-dehydrated fruits are cheap, easy, flavorful, and don’t contain added sugar and chemical preservatives. After drying some fruit, it’s time to branch out into the wider world of amazing dehydrator meals. Believe it or not, a simple dehydrator is capable of drying all sorts of foods, including vegetables, sauces, meats, soups, and beans (no soak time required).
20 MAZAMAS
BREAKFAST ▶▶ Trail smoothie: Simply blend up your favorite smoothie and spread it out on a dehydrator tray. Once it’s brittle, grind it up in a coffee grinder and put it in a resealable bag. Out on the trail, add a little water and you have a smoothie, just like at home. ▶▶ DIY oatmeal: Packaged oatmeal is a little…gross. Sugar and mystery ingredients, anyone? Instead, add whatever you want to some instant oats and you’re all set. Some fun ideas are chia seeds, hemp seeds, oat bran ( fiber), powdered milk (creaminess), sugar or substitute (if you have a sweet tooth), vanilla bean powder, cocoa powder, cinnamon or other spices, dried fruits, and nuts.
Dose Juice on Unsplash
LUNCH AND SNACKS ▶▶ DIY trail mix: Home-dried fruits, nuts, seeds, chocolate, coconut... ▶▶ DIY granola bars: Easier than you think to make at home. There are plenty of recipes online, including for KIND bars. ▶▶ Summer sausage or home-dehydrator jerky paired with a hard cheese (safe without refrigeration in cooler temps). Eat on whole grain crackers, or rehydrate some hummus and make a wrap. ▶▶ Consider rehydrating a meal pouch at breakfast and letting it soak until lunch. Many foods are just as good cold as they are warm.
DINNER ▶▶ Soup: Use your favorite soup recipe: dehydrate the veggies and add all the ingredients in a resealable bag. If you’re adding meat, consider purchasing freeze-dried meats since they don’t rehydrate very well when dehydrated. I did read that dehydrated canned chicken works fairly well. ▶▶ Couscous, pasta, and instant rice: Same instructions as for soup. There are tons of recipes online—risotto, curry, jambalaya, and many more. Consider dehydrating a marinara or curry sauce in your dehydrator! ▶▶ Ramen: Ditch the nutrient-deficient spice packet, and use the instant noodles with your own blend of dehydrated veggies and spices. ▶▶ Other ideas: Instant mashed potatoes or polenta. ▶▶ Dessert: Rice pudding (instant rice, raisins, sugar, cinnamon, water to rehydrate), fruit leather (DIY), apple crisp (granola, walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, dried apples, water to rehydrate).
Alexas_Fotos on Pixabay
ONLINE DRIED INGREDIENT MARKETPLACES Don’t want to invest in a dehydrator or don’t have the time or space? There are online shops that cater to backpackers and sell pre-dried individual ingredients, reusable rehydration pouches, and single-serve condiments. These stores are more expensive that doing it yourself, but if you’re pressed for time or don’t want to figure out how to dry some of the more persnickety foods (I’ve always struggled with squash), they’re a fantastic option. I’ve used Packit Gourmet (they also sell tasty meal pouches), but other options are Harmony House Foods and FoodStorage.com.
OTHER QUICK TIPS ▶▶ Save your boil-in-a-bag pouches. Wash them out and re-use them for your own dehydrator meals. ▶▶ Organize your dehydrator meals in clear, resealable bags. Write on the bag what is inside (and the day you plan to eat it on a multi-day trip), and place breakfasts, lunches/ snacks, and dinners in separate stuff sacks for easy sorting. ▶▶ Dry dark leafy greens in your dehydrator, then grind them into a powder in your coffee grinder. This is an easy way to add nutrients to your morning smoothie or oatmeal, or into a dinner pouch. “Power green” powders are also available online, but it’s much cheaper to do it yourself. All those grains and nuts take a toll on our digestive systems and adding greens can really help.
StockSnap on Pixabay
ALTERNATIVES TO MOUNTAIN HOUSE Mountain House meals are fine, but they can quickly get old. And 2 servings? More like 1. Found that one out the hard way. There are plenty of smaller companies producing dried meals popping up in local shops and online. ▶▶ Food for the Sole: Originally a mom making meals for her son hiking the John Muir Trail, they now make “tasty health-conscious adventure foods”. And they’re based in Bend! ▶▶ Backpackers Pantry: Becoming widely available at local stores. They do actually serve 2 people, use high-quality ingredients, and are a member of 1% for the Planet. ▶▶ Heather’s Choice: Small batch, healthy, and handmade in Alaska. ▶▶ Fishpeople: Soups and chowders made with wild, sustainably caught seafood. ▶▶ Packit Gourmet: Tex-Mex inspired meals from a mother-and-daughter team. ▶▶ Outdoor Herbivore: Vegetarian and vegan options with no additives, less sodium, and no artificial anything. Now get out there and plan some tasty meals!
FEBRUARY 2019 21
Groundhog Day by Jonathan Barrett
I
t is Groundhog Day ... again. In honor of the movie (and the holiday), I have five suggestions for how to break out of your climbing and hiking deja vu. From the gear that we use, to the goals that we set for ourselves, a repeated outing is given context by these things. Although we are to some degree trapped by the fact that the Gorge is only so large and that there are a limited number of crags within an hour or two of home, we don’t need to feel like Bill Murray’s character waking up every day to the same bars of Sonny and Cher: “Then put your little hand in mine/There ain’t no hill or mountain we can’t climb.” It is possible to expand the universe without leaving the confines of its boundaries. USE SOMEONE ELSE’S GEAR We all get used to the gear that we employ: our cams, our pack, our tent. This breeds familiarity, and frankly it makes our lives easier. Setting up your personal tent in a downpour takes only moments because you have done it a thousand times before. Plugging your gold Camalot into the hand-jam-sized crack becomes second nature. Every so often, I get the opportunity to climb on a partner’s gear such as during my most recent ice trip to Hyalite. I have climbed on Petzl Nomics since they were first introduced; my partner had brought a pair of Trango Raptors. Midway up The Dribbles, right before the WI4 headwall pitch, I asked to use his tools. The first couple of swings were awkward. The ice axes felt weirdly imbalanced. To compensate, I turned to using better footwork and looked down instead of up. The features of the ice
22 MAZAMAS
curtain were transformed. Blobs appeared that I might not have noticed before, and I stepped on them gently, like they were features on a rock climb. In the minutes that followed, I climbed a completely new route with improved technique.
CLIMB AT AN ODD TIME OF DAY (OR YEAR) “You know what I want to do?” Jarred asked me. Frankly I couldn’t guess, given his proclivity for provocative ideas. “Climb Dod’s Jam in the dark,” he said. In the dark? Why? When pressed, he didn’t have an answer really, something about the moonrise over the Bonneville Dam. Because I acquiesced, two weeks later I found myself face to face with a bushy-tailed woodrat, otherwise known as the infamous snafflehound. It’s eyes were glowing spheres under the light of my headlamp. He (or maybe she) tried
to squeeze its shivering body into the fissure at the back of the “bird’s nest” belay stance. The moon had not yet risen over the cliffs of the Gorge, so beyond the wan circle of light, it was exceedingly dark: a hold-your-hand-two-inches- from-yourface-and-not-see-anything dark. Typically when I stem up the off-width corner on that climb, the exposure rattles my nerves a little. The climbing isn’t very hard relative to some of the sequences on the rest of the route, but there is something about the way that feature pitches ever so slightly towards the river that normally makes me sweat. That night, though, I didn’t feel any trepidation. I could turn my light towards the Oregon side of the Columbia and view only a wall of black. I carefully pasted the rubber of my shoes against the wrinkled edges and moved upwards with uncommon confidence because I could not see. Three months later, Jarred and I found
From left: The author considers the merits of eating ice cream on a saddle during a summer climbing road trip. Photo: Andrew Barnes. John Sharp investigates up-close the elusive (and viviparous) rubber boa on the approach to Goode Mountain. Photo: Jonathan Barrett. Knowing that a little levity can ease a tedious activity, Andrew Ault takes the time to posedown mid-slog up Mt. Adams. Photo: Jonathan Barrett.
related and not a function of the food. This is true in other ways as well. Last summer I brought with me the makings for a no-bake cheesecake when climbing in the Bugaboos. A bank of snow served as a refrigerator. Dinner that night felt Michelin five-star luxurious as I spooned out servings for my partner and I.
FIND A NEW PARTNER
ourselves finishing Young Warriors in the dark after attempting a multi-route link-up. As I belayed him up onto the final ridgeline, I turned my headlamp toward the remaining slabs and cracks. A familiar set of glowing eyes looked back at me in what must have been disbelief. Or perhaps it was annoyance. What was the little bugger thinking? Maybe: Oh! Not this guy again!
BRING DIFFERENT FOOD Food is fuel, but also culture. As anyone who has traveled internationally knows, cuisine defines an experience, even if it is just Le Big Mac consumed on the streets of Paris. As such, the meals that we bring color our experiences in the outdoors. For better or worse, freeze-dried options have transformed backcountry dining and the way that people move through wild spaces. I have both a Jetboil and a Whisperlite. The choice between the two affects the culture of the trip. Typically, I bring the former for many of the obvious reasons: weight, fuel efficiency, and speed of eating. Consider the impact that this kind of choice has on a trip up the Emmons Glacier. With a night before and potentially after the climb at Camp Sherman, the instinct is to go as light as possible. However, a pot of tortellini smothered in pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and sausage is worth the weight. As a matter of fact, it would be difficult to suppress a smug smile as you watched other parties scarf so-called “Chicken and Rice” from a plasticized foil pouch knowing that the only GI distress you will suffer will be altitude-
Who one climbs with determines the vibe as much as what one climbs. With established partnerships, it is easy to warm up on the same routes, eat breakfast at the same joints, and pack in a matter of minutes, which is generally preferable. A new partner can breathe life into stale routines and jolt one out of tunnel vision. For years, my goal when traveling to distant climbing destinations was to climb as much as possible. This seemed to me like the logical thing to do given the financial outlay involved. Once, on an overseas trip, I was stunned to learn that my partner wanted to take the train into a neighboring country just to have lunch. I argued that it wasn’t raining that hard and would probably stop soon. He chuckled at my stupidity and pointed out that there was more to do than climb from sunrise to sunset. Through that new partnership, I have recalibrated and reconsidered my goals when traveling for climbing. This can be just as true for a local spot as well. Who knows how many times I drove past the Beacon Rock Cafe before a new partner once pointed out that we could climb all morning, drive a short distance down the road for a burger, and then head back for more laps. Suddenly that Clif bar in my pocket seemed slightly moronic.
SET COMPLETELY DIFFERENT GOALS I tend to want to hike fast and climb as many pitches as possible. My regular partners give me a hard time for always setting my watch to see how long it took from belay to belay. My goal is efficiency, and there is absolutely nothing wrong
with that, per se. However, it does flavor the outing with a sense of urgency. Consider instead the influence that other goals might lend. Photography is not a hobby of mine, and in the attempt to move quickly, I don’t take many pictures. When I return to share my adventures with friends, the sloppy and ill-framed images are nearly useless. This is not to say that I should be asking my partner to reclimb a pitch multiple times to allow me the benefit of having a perfectly captured and Instagram-worthy photo. I do however envy the care and effort that folks like Steph Abegg have taken to thoughtfully and completely document a trip. This goal-setting philosophy can be applied in other ways as well. Out for a hike on a familiar trail? Maybe try to engage others in conversation or at least friendly banter. How many new acquaintances could you make over a dozen miles? Bring a bird, flower, or tree guidebook and stop to actually investigate that glorious flora that you have seen so many times. Use familiar terrain as an opportunity to try out a new piece of technology. What better place to learn the mapping software than in an area where you can double-check your work?
SOME FINAL THOUGHTS What benefits do these changes have for us as climbers and human beings? If Groundhog Day can teach us anything, it is that being stuck in a loop is not necessarily a bad thing in and of itself. How we respond to the conditions of our confinement is the question. In reflection, I can honestly say that making these kinds of changes myself have made me a better and more thoughtful climber. As someone who looks at my life and actions through the lens of climbing, they have also reframed the way that I travel, engage with people, and consider the possessions in my life. In doing so, I am equipped so that there is no hill or mountain I can’t climb.
FEBRUARY 2019 23
Great Hells Canyon Council by the Mazama Conservation Committee
C
onservation and preservation advocacy organizations often start out with a single issue that is very clearly defined, has a simple but compelling story to tell, and can by itself fire up passion among advocates, friends, and the public at large. If they can survive the drawn-out battle that typically ensues with its very long odds, powerful opposition, many political twists and turns, and a few surprises along the way, they will survive as an organization. But they will then have to successfully transition into a different kind of organization and a broadened advocacy. The Greater Hells Canyon Council is such an organization that initially fought over that single issue and won, and then made the transition into a more modern organization that has a newly relevant mission and vision. And they are now again asking the question of “what’s next?” HISTORY Mazamas are likely all familiar with the history of GHCC’s initial issue: Over fifty years ago in the summer of 1967, a huge 670 foot dam was proposed for Hells Canyon and the Snake River that would have wiped out the last significant portion of a natural wild river—120 miles total. What started as a simple legal maneuver to demand that there be a legal process and a review (remember, this was before the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) was enacted in 1969!), eventually turned into a nine-year battle that ended up in the Supreme Court. And it resulted not only in a denial of the dam, but also had two indirect effects: First, it galvanized public opinion enough to break the entrenched political power system of the PNW dam lobby, and second, it created what we now know today as the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. Those two indirect spinoffs of the dam’s denial became the initial basis for the organization’s first “what’s next?” question. They knew this was more than just a question of dams and water impoundment and power companies. Even though the dam had been defeated, they were faced with a region that had a very low population density, a large and diverse land mass with many parts held by different public entities engaging in little coordination, and there was minimal protection for many of the public lands at the time. There had been a long history of logging, grazing, mining, and more for over a century, at times ecologically irresponsible, and this unfortunately formed the main economic basis of the region. No one else at that point had their stature and was stepping up to the task, thus GHCC expanded their focus to cover the entire Greater Hells Canyon region, protecting these amazing wildlands and the wildlife that call them home. They became the go-to organization for all matters of diverse issues as logging, grazing, recreation, mining, species protection, wildlife connectivity, and more. Their mission is now “to connect, protect, and restore the wild lands, waters, native species and habitats of the Greater Hells Canyon Region, ensuring a legacy of healthy ecosystems for future generations.” Their vision is “a region of wild lands and waters where both native species and human communities thrive.”
24 MAZAMAS
A (VERY LARGE) REGION OF INFLUENCE Their region of influence is four million acres, covering NE Oregon and parts of both Washington and Idaho. It stretches from the Elkhorn Mountains in Oregon to the Seven Devils in Idaho, the Blue Mountains to the Wallowas, and everything in between. It is dominated by two principal geographic features, Hells Canyon and the Snake River, and the Wallowa Mountains. Each has some very unique features that are unprecedented, even those in the Pacific Northwest. HELLS CANYON HIGHLIGHTS: ▶▶ The Snake has the longest section of free flowing water west of the Mississippi. ▶▶ The Hells Canyon National Recreation Area (HCRNA) is an ecological corridor that connects forested habitats in the Wallowa and Blue Mountains to those in the Rocky Mountains. This forested link is unique; similar forested corridors do not exist between two mountain ranges. ▶▶ HCRNA is a botanical bridge which links interior Rocky Mountain plant species and communities with communities of the Blue Mountains and further west. Subalpine habitats provide habitat for species that are normally found only in the Rocky Mountains, the Cascade Mountains, or in boreal habitats further north. The hot, dry canyon bottoms contain plants commonly found in the Great Basin and areas south of the HCNRA. ▶▶ HCRNA contains one of the best-preserved collections of riverine archaeology in North America. “Today, Hells Canyon is like a museum with very steep walls; its inaccessibility has shielded its cultural resources.” ▶▶ Canyons were home to Native Americans for at least 7,100 years. Nez Perce, Shoshone-Bannock, Northern Paiute, and Cayuse frequently visited the area. HCRNA consists of ceded Nez Perce treaty lands. ▶▶ Four rivers are designated as wild and scenic: the Snake and Rapid River in Idaho, and the Grande Ronde and Imnaha in Oregon. ▶▶ Hells Canyon has long been recognized for its unique botanical resources resulting from a combination of topography, geology, climate and elevation range. Currently 1038 documented plant species exist in the HCRNA. ▶▶ Many biologically unique plant communities and plant associations occur in HCNRA.
WALLOWA MOUNTAIN HIGHLIGHTS: ▶▶ The Wallowa Mountains rise more than a vertical mile above the sagebrush plains and grasslands of NE Oregon. ▶▶ Eagle Cap Wilderness is the largest designated wilderness in Oregon. ▶▶ LeGore Lake, at 8,972 feet in the northern part of range, is one of the highest lakes in Oregon. ▶▶ The largest lake, Wallowa Lake, extends nearly 5 miles, and is nearly 300 ft. deep. Flanking it all the way to the mountain front are spectacular glacial moraines. These grassy ridges, formed by an ancient glacier, rise nearly 1,000 feet above the lake. ▶▶ The Wallowa Mountains contain the largest continuous area of subalpine and alpine terrain in Oregon. ▶▶ The summits of the major peaks are commonly thousands of feet above adjacent valley floors. The highest peaks— Sacajawea at 9,838 feet; Matterhorn at 9,826 feet, are the 6th and 7th highest mountains in Oregon. Four more exceed 9,000 feet: Red Mountain at 9,555 feet; Eagle Cap at 9,572 feet; Aneroid Mountain at 9,702 feet; Marble Mountain at 9,000 feet. ▶▶ The geologic diversity of the Wallowa Mountains is truly exceptional, and for their aerial extent the Wallowas may be considered one of the most geologically diverse mountain ranges in the country. ▶▶ Majestic three and four-foot diameter ponderosa pine, western larch, Douglas-fir, and grand fir can be seen in certain localities. These giants, and many much larger, once covered thousands of acres of the Blues but most have been logged and today only a few scattered, remnant old-growth stands remain. ▶▶ Notable biogeography: Wallowas contain some of the westernmost stands of limber pine and the westernmost Rocky Mountain junipers. Eastern limit for mountain hemlock. ▶▶ Wallowa Whitman National Forest (WWNF) is home to over 400 species of wildlife. Diversity of species can be attributed to diverse habitat ... warm arid canyonlands of the Snake and Imnaha River drainages, to the montane forests and into the subalpine meadows and alpine tundra atop the high Wallowas. ▶▶ Lakes and rivers of the Wallowas support 41 species of fish and 271 species of birds.
WILD CONNECTIONS One issue that is shaping GHCC’s focus looking forward is the connectivity of the many diverse regions within their sphere of influence. It wasn’t lost on them that while Oregon’s ODFW was considering a formal wolf reintroduction program over ten years ago, the wolves didn’t bother to wait for the politics to settle out: In 2009, the Imnaha pack, containing a breeding pair, just came on their own from Idaho into Oregon. They traveled through existing corridors connecting these wild regions. The political expediency of this canine action has had and will continue to have long-reaching consequences, but what can’t be argued is that these corridors enabled this to happen. Many other sensitive fauna, such as moose, bighorn sheep, also benefit from these corridors, as well as flora such as ponderosa pine. As they looked forward to the next fifty years—years certain to be affected by global warming, biodiversity loss, and social transitions—they asked “how and where can we have the greatest impact in our mission area, what do we need most from these lands and waters, and what does this place need from us?” Wild Connections campaign is grounded in these big questions, and this campaign will take the initiative on behalf of the region’s long-term resilience. It will involve innovative conservation strategies implemented through partnership and collaboration, as both wild systems and human communities are more resilient when they are well-connected. The area chosen for this campaign are the breaks of the lower Grande Ronde River, between the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness and Hells Canyon. It is a landscape rich with connections local, eco-regional and global. Salmon and steelhead travel from the Pacific Ocean to spawn here. Steep draws connect the largest remaining Pacific Northwest bunchgrass prairie to the deepest river canyon in North America. A hundred and fourteen species of neotropical birds flit from rimrock to springbox as they move north and south along the flyways of the interior West. And people have long been connected to this place, too: the Nez Perce wintered in these canyons, and they and their ancestors have hunted and lived along these creeks and rivers for at least 10,000 years. This country is big, rugged, and largely undeveloped: rich with refugia and history and adaptive possibility.
GHCC will work with scientist partners to identify the most crucial corridors for wildlife movement and migration—both at present and in the face of climate change—and with collaborators will protect and restore those key linkages. The region of focus is a patchwork of BLM, National Forest, private timber and agricultural land, Tribal and Nature Conservancy lands. Many of these land managers have conservation values or duties, but the Wild Connections campaign will try to put the pieces together into a unified, collective conservation vision for the area as a whole. FOR MORE INFORMATION, WWW.HELLSCANYON.ORG.
FEBRUARY 2019 25
AN INTERVIEW WITH BROCK EVANS, ENVIRONMENTAL ATTORNEY I was there at the very beginning of our fledgling campaign as the attorney and Northwest Representative for both the Sierra Club and the Federation of Western Outdoor Clubs. This was in summer 1967, and our aim was to stop that last huge dam in the canyon (Hells Canyon). I filed the legal action which slowed it down, giving us time to organize politically; and coincidentally, to represent the then-just-forming Hells Canyon Preservation Council (HCPC). A formal Petition of Intervention, whose purpose was to demand a legal trial, in which to introduce formal evidence of the canyon’s immense natural wild river values, as the reason there never should be a dam there. Our other, unspoken, reason for the legal action, was to thus slow down the pro-dam juggernaut, which had already by then plugged up so many of the Pacific Northwest’s great rivers. The success of that intervention gave our tiny struggling band time time to organize politically, draft protective legislation, and appeal to the whole American people ... whose tremendous support everywhere was one of the prime reasons why we were able, eventually (1975–76), to save the canyon and its magnificent living river. And also, as it turned out, HCPC leaders’ energies, commitments, and passions, were a prime factor in our overall, larger effort to become strong enough to break the political power of the Pacific Northwest dam lobby everywhere—also forever! That’s the context of how and when I got to meet, know, and work hand in glove—forever after—with those most wonderful HCPC leaders. When drafting the Petition, I was searching for a local area group to join the larger ones, as plaintiffs ( for ‘political’ reasons, e.g., so we couldn’t be attacked as ‘outsiders’). And by good luck and timing, was able to persuade the Idaho Alpine Club to join us. Coincidentally, their leaders at the time turned out to be the same wonderful activists who created the fledgling HCPC, that same summer, its first meeting that fall. Formally incorporated July, 1967 I recall, first agreed to create HCPC, about March I think. I think I was there for that wonderful fall event, meeting everyone, and somewhere I may still have my membership card from then. I’ll see if I can find it. I still have the most vivid memories of a float trip led and organized by Floyd Harvey (Lewiston jetboat operator) in September 1967, where I met the likes of Boyd Norton, Jim Campbell, Pete Henault, Jerry Jayne, etc, all H{ “\ (now GHCC) is such a great outfit! It has persevered through thick and thin, through all the ups and downs since those heady and exciting times of the 9-year political campaign to pass the legislation (December 31, 1975) protecting that most grand and mighty living river and its gorges, forever. Great leadership, all the way. Not many startup, purely conservation, organizations can claim to have survived so long—at the moment I can only recall North Cascades Conservation Council (Wash.) as being in the same league in the Pacific Northwest. I have had the honor and privilege of testifying before Congress on Hells Canyon issues, alongside GHCC leaders, in the many years since 1976, and hope to be able to do so for the rest of my days. What a happiness to have been there since the very beginning! 26 MAZAMAS
WHAT CAN A MAZAMA DO?
First and foremost, just get out there and visit the region! As we see more and more of our beloved Cascade Range become crowded with outdoor enthusiasts, remember that we have another half of the state that has much less recreational usage. Appreciating the natural features of this region brings an appreciation for what we all have out here, and that in turn brings a sense that we need to protect it.
YOU CAN ALSO: 1. Report any damages you see in public lands— remember, 4 million acres is a huge area to protect, and they depend upon the eyes and ears of many to cover it for them. www. hellscanyon.org/report-damages 2. Provide comment on issues that require an organized eco-defense effort—they provide a summary here: www.hellscanyon.org/whatwe-do 3. Support their new Wild Connections campaign. 4. Join them! www.hellscanyon.org/join
LOOKING FOR A ROOMMATE Billie Goodwin (member since 1985). Primary phone, 509-4996963 (cell). Secondary phone, 503-254-6121. Location: 2 miles from I-84 and 205; Junction off Glisan at 130th to Couch. Shared access to washer, dryer, refrigerator (x2), and kitchen. Space 1: downstairs with living room, one bedroom, and one bathroom (available Apr. 1 but move-in date is flexible). $650/ month inc. utilities. Space 2: Single room upstairs with outdoor access (available now) - $450/month inc. utilities. NOTE: the house has a cat, so no other pets are allowed. Renter may be asked to help care for the cat when Billie is house-sitting. Paid Advertisement.
WE HIKE HIGH Join our fourth annual, fully-supported trekking opportunities in Peru to see the world’s largest tropical glacier, the Quelcaya Icecap, the stone forest of Aymaña, along with other highlights. Additional trekking opportunities available in advance to acclimate and bring supplies to remote needy schools. Timeframe: Sept.–Oct. 2019 (exact dates to be determined and additional cultural/historical sites and day hiking from Cusco custom crafted for the participants). Contact Mazama member & climb leader Ellen Gradison at ellengradison@gmail.com. Paid advertisement
e m o c Wel
Our new members join a 124-year legacy of mountaineering, exploration, stewardship, advocacy, and a love of the outdoors and outdoor recreation. Please give them a warm welcome if you encounter them in a class, activity, or an evening program. We welcome you to our ranks!
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS Whether you are a lifelong Mazama member, a recent BCEP graduate, reading this Bulletin at your local climbing shop, or somewhere in between, you should make sure you know all of the benefits of Mazama membership. JOIN THE MAZAMAS TODAY! Get all the details on how to become a member of one of the most active mountaineering organizations in the country: mazamas.org/join ▶▶ DISCOUNTED rates on all Mazama activities—climbs, hikes, classes, and outings. ▶▶ This MAGAZINE, filled with articles, photos, activities, and events delivered to your door monthly. ▶▶ DISCOUNTS at local retailers and gyms. ▶▶ Access to MAZAMA LODGE at the base of Mt. Hood. ▶▶ The Mazama Annual, a yearbook of the past year at the Mazamas, including articles, awards, and recognition of our volunteers. ▶▶ Free RESCUE INSURANCE anywhere in the world below 6,000 meters. ▶▶ Full access to the world-class MOUNTAINEERING LIBRARY.
NEW MAZAMAS NEW MEMBERS: 56 Pamela Belgarde, Mt. Jefferson Tim Blackwood, Mt. Adams Maryn Bonniwell, Mt. Hood Brian P Boyd, Mt. Hood Scott Branscum, South Sister Paula Brottman, South Sister Devan Darsow, South Sister Brian Dickerson, Middle Sister Tad Dillman, Mt. Hood Kate Dresher, Old Snowy Mtn Jesse Edelstein, Mt. Whitney Aren Edlund, Mt. St. Helens Michael Fairhurst, Mt. St Helens Jeff Fossum, Mt. Adams Kim Foster, Mt. St Helens Tara Fritz, Mt. Hood Ashley Galvan, Mt. Adams Michael Graham, Huayna Potosí Della Graham, Mt. Adams Jerri Grosche, South Sister Wade Hewitt, Mt. St Helens Brooks Howard, Mt. Hood Laurel Jensen, Mt. Hood Christopher Kienzle, Borah Peak, ID Frank Klatil, Mt. St Helens Cassi Knight, Mt. Hood Clark Kocurek, Mt. St Helens Shashikiran Konnur Sampathkumar, Mt. Rainier
Pamela Leeding, South Sister Sarah Madison, Mt. St Helens Michael Matney, Mt. St Helens Joshua McCain, Mt. St Helens Noel (Patrick) McJunkin, South Sister Tyler Miller, Mt. Rainier Kristie Mitchell, Mt. Hood Kadin Mitchell, Mt. Adams Marla Molskness, Mt. Rainier Kyle Nastasi, Grand Teton Ann Olson, Mt. Whitney Michal Podhradsky, Mt. St Helens Jacob Powell, Mt. Adams Mackenzie Retkowski, South Sister Joseph Alan Schaard, Mt. Adams Nicole Seals, South Sister Michael Shanks, Mt. St Helens Steve Siegfried, Longs Peak Ethan Sinsabaugh, Mt. Adams Jaroslaw Sochacki, Mt. Baker Cassie Soucy, Eagle Cap Daniel Stedman, Mt. Hood Greg Steel, Mt. Hood Jacob Stone, South Sister Joshua Swanson, Mt. St Helens Kade Swanson-Theisen, Mt. St Helens Jeff Swift, Mt. Hood Lucinda Watson, Mt. St Helens
REINSTATEMENTS:33
Sugar Ambrosio (2017), Josiah M. Ball (2017), Marilyn L. Black (1985), Grant C. Blythe (2009), Aaron F. Bohn (2013), Nick Wb. Boswell (2016), Mark J. Butterfield (1998), Peter Cairney (2000), Anna C. Cairney (2003), David Church (2006), Maggie DiUlio (1982), Jim Edelblute (2002), Heather Page Fairley (2006), Kari Friedewald (2003), Kate Harbour (2015), Jon D. Himes (2009), Angie M. Holliday (2017), Andrea L. Kowalski (2014), Jerry Levy (2015), Rick Lugar (1993), Miki A. O’Connor (2016), Corey W. O’Neil (2017), Dian Ott (2007), Laetitia Ma. Pascal (2016), Patrick L. Philpott (1980), Robert E. Rummel (1985), Brien R. Sheedy (2014), Elena M. Sias (2016), Jim Slater (2016), Don Sohler (2011), Jan M. Sturdevant (2016), Michael Vincerra (2015), & Laura Westmeyer (2015).
DECEASED: 1 Neal Keefer Total Membership as of: Dec. 31, 2018: 3,101 Dec. 31, 2017: 3,142
FEBRUARY 2019 27
ADVENTUROUS YOUNG MAZAMAS (AYM) Activities for those in their 20s & 30s or anyone young at heart. You can now find and sign up for all AYM activities on our website at mazamas.org/ AYM. Create your account (get all the details at mazamas.org/ gettingstarted), click on activity, and sign up! It’s quick and easy, and you’ll be able to track all of your Mazama activities in one place. A group photo from the Tamanawas Falls hike on January 13, 2018. Photo: Lauren Sankovitch.
Check the website at mazamas. org/AYM and the AYM Meetup page frequently for the most up to date schedule. All trips are $2 for members/$4 for nonmembers unless otherwise noted. Want to be featured on the AYM Instagram account? Tag @aympdx in your photos of Mazama adventures!
MONTHLY EVENTS ▶▶AYM Committee Meeting: Monday, Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m., MMC ▶▶Pub Night: Date TBD, check Meetup for details! ▶▶Climb Night: Wed., Feb. 6 at 6 p.m., Planet Granite
28 MAZAMAS
FRACTURED FACTS
What’s the difference between a snowfield and a glacier? by Lauren Sankovitch Well, I’m glad you asked! As you no doubt know already, both of these geological features contain snow … but, oh, the differences! Snowfields are (semi)permanent fields of snow in high elevation and/or high latitude areas where snow is present all year. A snowfield will grow and shrink through the seasons but it does not “move”. Relative to a glacier, a snowfield’s snow is very “young” and, because it is not very deep, it is not heavy enough to be compacted into the dense ice that marks a glacier. Speaking of glaciers…their biggest claim to fame is their ability to move (due to gravity)! Glaciers are so heavy, they pressure melt along the bedrock they sit on and slide…! In fact, they are often so top heavy, the upper layers of the glacier can move downhill faster than the bottom layers. Some scientists like to imagine they are a sort of living being with their ability to advance and retreat (some as much as 3 meters in a day!), so much so the ends of the glacier are called the “head” and the “toe”! Glaciers even have a “memory” and will grow or shrink depending on the weather year to year. Glaciers are also made of very old, very dense ice that is built up over centuries, even millennia. This very old ice is the stunning blue color you see revealed in the warmer months while the snowfall on glaciers is reduced. Over a long enough time span, and with climate in its favor, a snowfield CAN become a glacier…and vice versa, with enough warming and retreating of the glacier, it can become a snowfield…but in a FAR shorter period of time. Growth is far more difficult than melting. Today, we are seeing this trend toward melting/retreating/ disappearing in snowfields and glaciers worldwide as part of the overall warming of Earth’s climate. Reference: http://eo.ucar.edu/kids/wwe/ice1.htm
NEW LEADER SPOTLIGHT
WILL SCHLOSSER ▶▶ Hometown? San Jose ▶▶ Years with the Mazamas? 4 years ▶▶ Favorite trips that you’ve led with AYM? Not enough led trips yet, but Mt. Adams is a favorite area ▶▶ What is one thing that you always bring on a hike that is not one of the 10 essentials? Usually a handkerchief ▶▶ Favorite Leader Treat? Haribo gummy bears ▶▶ When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up and why? I was not aspiring child, I thought I could figure it out later. ▶▶ What is one surprising thing about yourself that people don’t usually know about you? I started surfing in Oregon, not California. ▶▶ People should sign up for a trip with you if....They like gaining elevation for views (only sometimes!) ▶▶ Do you have any other hobbies? I’m starting to do my own print framing
• Private climbs lead by professional guides • Gear discounts • Team Training • Celebration dinner • Nights lodging • Guaranteed Fun!
ClimbforCleanAir.org
Mt. Rainier
Mt. Hood
Mt. Baker
Use discount code “Mazamas” for $100 off registration
Photo credit: Davren Bell
FEBRUARY 2019 29
EVENING TRAVEL PROGRAMS The Mazamas offers a robust Evening Travel Program from mid-October through April every year at the Mazamas Mountaineering Center. You’ll virtually travel to every corner of the globe as our dynamic speakers immerse you in their experience through photos, video, and great storytelling. Programs are free and open to the general public. We appreciate voluntary contributions at the discretion of each attendee. Carpooling, public transportation, biking, and walking to the MMC are encouraged. View the entire season’s schedule at mazamas.org/eveningtravelprograms
Mazama Mountaineering Center 527 SE 43rd Ave, Portland, Ore. Programs Start at 7 p.m.
Mountain (Movie), Feb. 6 For those terrified of heights, Mountain will be a nonstop nightmare. But big scares are a small price to pay for the awe-inspiring footage you will be treated to. Australian film-maker Jennifer Peedom’s film presents a continuous sequence of mountains on all seven continents; breathtaking ranges and snow-capped peaks are seen from above, below and on their slopes. Footage includes climbers, skiers, and extreme mountain bikers taking risks that seem beyond outrageous. The sweeping, gorgeous, close-up imagery—combined with slow, calm, relaxing narration (delivered by Willem Dafoe) and symphonic music performed by the Australian Chamber Orchestra, adds to the goosebumps and creates an experience that viewers truly feel.
The Classic Inca Trail, Feb. 13
DIY Dolomites, Feb. 20
The Inca Road system, also known as the Camino Inca, spanned Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chili and Argentina and is estimated to have had nearly 25,000 miles of trails. Paula Wetzsteon will share her experiences while hiking this trail, some of the history of the area and offer tips for those interested in going on this remarkable hike.
Alta Via 1, one of Europe’s classic hutto-hut treks, winds 75 miles though Italy’s dramatic Dolomites. Join Bruce Melzer for photos and tips for putting together your trip though some of Italy’s most magnificent mountains.
30 MAZAMAS
Trekking in the Ecuadorian Andes & Guatemala, Feb. 27 Donovan Pacholl, owner of Embark Exploration Co., and Tad Bradley, an Embark partner and former trekking guide in Guatemala, will co-present a discussion on both exploring and trekking in Guatemala and Ecuador. The presentation will also highlight a recent expedition by many Mazamas that climbed Cotopaxi at 19,347 ft.
MAZAMA OUTINGS
Apply online at mazamas.org/outings
You can now apply for Mazama Outings on our website. Go to mazamas.org/outings to view all outings. When you apply, you will be prompted to complete your profile, and you’ll enter credit card information. If accepted, your credit card will be charged for the trip deposit, and you will then be sent an invoice for the remainder of the outing cost. This invoice can be paid by credit card or check. EXPLORING UTAH’S NATIONAL PARKS: SEPT. 29–OCT. 13 Join us on a camping and hiking outing to Utah’s Red Rock country. We will travel to Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Parks, and National Bridges National Monument. We meet in Moab, Utah Sept. 29. You can fly to Salt Lake City and rent a car or drive from Portland. First visit Arches National Park and the Island in the Sky section of Canyonlands. Move south to the Needles region of Canyonlands, with spectacular Sandstone pillars. On day 6, drive to Natural Bridges National Monument for an afternoon and camping overnight. The next day, we drive to Capitol Reef National Park for 3 days and 2 nights in a campground, and one night in a backcounty camp (car accessible). Then follow the historic Burr Trail road to Escalante, where we will camp. The next day, it is on to Bryce Canyon National Park for an afternoon of hiking and overnight in a campground. Finally we end our journey with 3 days and nights in spectacular Zion National Park. Participants should be able to carry a light pack on slickrock terrain involving occasional exposed traversing and easy scrambling. Hiking at A- to B-level. Costs: $374 to $634 for group size of 7–15 (including leaders). Camping and Mazama fees included. Participants responsible for transportation, food, park entry costs. We will arrange carpools and gear sharing. A $100 deposit is due upon acceptance onto the outing. Contact: leader Bob Breivogel 503-292-2940, breivog@teleport.com. Apply online at mazamas.org/outings.
OREGON MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY
PORTLAND, OR
ESTABLISHED 1971
OMCGEAR.COM 2975 NE Sandy Blvd. Portland, OR Hours M-F 10-7 SAT 10-6 SUN 12-5 503-227-1038
Yatvin Computer Consultants Experienced in troubleshooting, repair, and resolution of software and hardware problems. Expertise in: • Mac & PC systems • Home & Business systems • New system installations • Wireless & wired networks • Printers & TV/AV/Cable • Software & hardware upgrades • Troubleshooting Competitive & Reasonable Rates Call or email for more info: 503-452-8648 | ycc@yatvincc.net
Used EQUIPMENT Sale
sale March 29, 2019 5–6 p.m. for members & students in climb class 6–8 p.m. for the general public. at the Mazama Mountaineering Center
dropoff March 28, 2019 4–8 p.m. at the Mazama Mountaineering Center
E
ach year the Mazama Used Equipment Sale provides the perfect opportunity for folks with lots of gear to clear out the old, and for folks who are looking for used gear to find some great gems to add to their collection! You could sell your used equipment on ebay or Craigslist but then you would have to deal with the entire sales process, including mailing your item to the buyer. This way, you simply drop off your gear, retain 70 percent of the sale price, and 30 percent helps fund Mazama programming! Buyers can find some great deals on field-tested equipment, as well as some new equipment at discounted prices from local retailers. You’ll find nordic and telemark ski gear, snowshoes, all kinds of outdoor clothing, assorted (very assorted!) camping and backpacking gear, shoes and boots, books and technical climbing gear, and more! Sell some gear, buy some gear, help make the world go round!
32 MAZAMAS
seller details ▶▶ Look in your gear closet for sale-able equipment or clothing you aren’t using or have upgraded. ▶▶ Price it reasonably and it will sell; you’ll keep 70 percent of all proceeds. ▶▶ Pick up price tags and tally sheets at the MMC starting Feb. 24. ▶▶ Mark your calendars for March 28 from 4–8 p.m. to drop off items for the sale. ▶▶ Pickup of leftover items is Saturday, March 30. If leftover items are not picked up on Saturday they will be donated to charity. Once again, we’ll be collecting warm clothing for Mainspring ( formerly FISH Emergency Services) to distribute to those in need. For questions, email ues@mazamas.org or visit our website at mazamas.org/UES
Snow (but not mud!) Free Hikes for Off Season Training by Darrin Gunkel
S
nowshoeing not your thing? Traction devices annoy you? Here are 8 hikes to keep your blood pumping through the winter months that don’t involve strapping anything beyond gaiters to your feet. One of the beauties of hiking and climbing in the greater Portland area has always been the multitude of 365-day per year (more or less, depending on the occasional ice storm) training options afforded by the Columbia Gorge. That is, until the Eagle Creek Fire shut down most every trail on the Oregon side of the river. The 2017 conflagration put dozens of reliable all-season hikes out of commission indefinitely. And it ruined more than a few winter training schedules. The speed of the recovery isn’t smiling on the itchy-footed and the impatient. Gorge trails are beginning to reopen, particularly around Multnomah Falls and Angel’s Rest. Unfortunately, the Forest Service warns conditions can be dicey, with downed trees, washed out trails, and lots of loose mud and rock. As a result, expect your favorite off-season training trails to be a bit slower than before. Even if you’re experienced with rough trail conditions, there’s also the matter of conservation to consider. During the wet season, the erosional effects of fire damage are magnified and “normal” wear and tear takes a greater long-run toll. The message here is maybe we should go easy on the Oregon side of the Gorge for a while. Not like our region doesn’t have plenty other winter hiking options. What follows are some of the better low elevation trails for varying degrees of training. Outside of the occasional winter snow blast, these routes are open year-round, and more or less the same distance from the main population centers as the Gorge trails.
The pyramid wall at Macks Canyon. Photo: Darrin Gunkel.
1 TRYON CREEK OUTER LOOP: 5.7 MILES, 630 FEET ELEVATION GAIN If you’ve found yourself a little out of shape after the holidays, Tryon Creek State Park’s a great place to break your hiking fast and begin warming up for the summer. The Outer Loop, as described in the OregonHikers.org field guide is just the right length to begin restretching those (ahem) well-rested muscles. The park has tons of trails through mature second growth forest, though, and with a trail map in hand, you can tailor your own workout to fit whatever mileage and elevation needs you have.
2 MILO MCIVER RIVERSIDE LOOP: 6.1 MILES, 690 FEET This loop around the north side of Milo McIver State Park drops down the bluff to wander along the banks of the Clackamas River, saving the workout for the end. It also skirts a top-notch disc golf course! Again, Oregon Hikers maps out the details of this particular trip. But as with Tryon Creek, plenty of trails crawl up and down the bluff, allowing you to patch together any sort of workout you like.
continued on next page FEBRUARY 2019 33
Snow-Free Hikes, continued from previous page
3
4
CLACKAMAS RIVER TRAIL: 8.2 AND 1,550 FEET, ONE WAY
THE OTHER EAGLE CREEK: UP TO 15.4 MILES AND UP TO 1835 FEET
If you want to bring a bike, or an extra car, you can stash either the Fish Creek or Indian Henry Trailheads on the Clackamas River and through hike this fine portion of the Clackamas River, and sample one of Oregon’s newer protected areas, the Clackamas River Wilderness (established in 2009.) The net elevation gain from Fish Creek to Indian Henry is just 350 feet, but the trail bobs up and down the whole way, stacking up the elevation and making it a better workout than many other lowerelevation river hikes. If you don’t want to car shuttle or bike (or hitchhike) back to your car, an out-and-back trip from Fish Creek to Pup Creek Falls is bit shorter, at 7.8 miles, but adds 145 feet to the total elevation. Or, if you’re feeling particularly energetic, you could always do entire trail out and back for a workout equal to many of the tougher trails on Hood.
Not a lot of people know about the other Eagle Creek, flowing west out of the Salmon Huckleberry Wilderness, into the Clackamas, near Estacada. It could be argued that this is a better springtime hike, once the carpets of oxalis on the old growth forest floor start blooming. Then again, there are many things to recommend the deep ancient forest in the depths of winter. Not the least of which is the lack of company. This hike begins and climbs a little higher than the others listed here, so check with the Estacada ranger station about snowpack before you go.
5 SILVER FALLS There’s a lot more to Silver Falls State Park than the Silver Falls and Ten Falls Loops. The Perimeter Loop rewards your efforts with 16.8 miles and 2470 feet gained, but could be a bit snowy or icy. If you do the Buck Mountain Loop and add the Howard Creek and Cutoff Trails, you not only clock 8.6 miles and nearly 1,000 feet, you get to admire some fine old growth trees, as well.
6 SOUTH MOLALLA RIVER TRAILS: UP TO 9.9 MILES AND 1,375 FEET—OR MORE! As with Tryon and Milo McGiver, many trails in BLM managed Molalla River Recreation Area wind up and down the bluff and along the river. Half the fun here is just picking a route. And there’s another possibility in this neck of the woods. Just 20 minutes further down the road, and you come to the Old Bridge Trailhead for Table Rock Wilderness. The trail into the wilderness here leaps up 1800 feet in the first 2.5 miles. This would put you at 3000 feet, not entirely out of the question in a low snowpack year like 2019. Not a bad jaunt, if you feel the need to do something steep with your day.
Left Page: Winter along the Clackamas River. Photo: Darrin Gunkel. Right Page: Neahkahnie Mountain from the Cape Falcon trail. Photo: Darrin Gunkel.
34 MAZAMAS
7 MACKS CANYON SKYLINE: AS MUCH MILEAGE AS YOU WANT, AND UP TO 1,800 FEET ELEVATION The Deschutes River Canyon east of Tygh Valley, where Oregon Route 216 crosses the river, doesn’t get nearly the attention it deserves. A BLM road leads north from the river crossing, winding through a spectacular collection of basalt pyramids, ridges, and walls, ending at Macks Canyon campground. From here, you could march 23.6 miles, slowly and steadily downstream, to the Deschutes River State Recreation Area at the Columbia. Or, you can pick a route up one of those ridges. The pyramid walling the east bank of the river just past the campground is a good option. Traversing it south to north and returning via the river trail will earn you 1800 feet up and down in 4.8 miles. And views of Adams, Hood, and Jefferson from the canyon rim.
8 OREGON COAST TRAIL FROM SHINGLE MILL TO SHORT SANDS 15.9 MILES, 2,750 FEET. You can drive within a half mile of Short Sands Beach, but unless you’re carrying three kids and four surfboards, why would you want to do that? To get a real workout, and a real feel of the Pacific Coast, spend a whole day on this leg of the Oregon Coast Trail. Beginning just off Highway 101, at the OCT Shingle Mill Trailhead, it’s the nearest true hiking stretch of the OCT to the Portland-Vancouver area—a little more than an hour and a half. As long as the traffic gods smile upon you or leave early enough to beat the daytripper traffic on Route 26 (which you probably want to do anyway, given the mileage on the route) you should have plenty of time to hike, dawdle among ancient Sitka spruce, lounge above the Pacific Ocean at Cape Falcon, and watch surfers compete for waves at Short Sands.
SUCCESSFUL CLIMBERS Nov. 10, Mt. St. Helens, Monitor Ridge. Leader: Matt Sundling. Asst: Trey Schtrumpf. Will Charles Bailey, Sarah Johnson, Jeffrey Leadford, Alison Odabashian, Deziree Perea, Nadia Rivera, Kristofel Simbajon Nov. 11, Mt. St. Helens, Monitor Ridge. Leader: Matt Sundling. Asst: Melissa Hugo. Jamie Boryska, Sue Dimin, Karl Grenehammar, Vlad Lobanov, Kevin Kohberger, Tucker Miles, Eric Risner, Angela Schaefer Nov 18, South Sister, Green Lakes. Leader: Matt Sundling. Asst: Luke Levin, Will Charles Bailey, Yev Krasnitskiy Nov 18, Broken Top, NW Ridge. Leader: Matt Sundling. Asst: Justin Colquhoun, Will Charles Bailey, Charles Blanke, Hannah Bessette, Jami Cate, Alex Evans, Yev Krasnitskiy, Brooke Winter Dec. 5, Mt. Hood, South Side. Leader: Rico Micallef. Asst: Jonathan Myers. Gary Riggs Dec. 7, Mt. Hood, Devil’s Kitchen Headwall. Leader: Matt Sundling. Asst: Ryan Johnson. Yev Krasnitskiy, Eric Risner.
FEBRUARY 2019 35
TRAIL TRIPS JOIN US! MAZAMA TRAIL TRIPS ARE OPEN TO EVERYONE Contact Trail Trips trailtrips@mazamas.org with any questions. Hike leaders, to schedule a hike next month, go to: mazamas.org, login, and schedule. UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED, ALL HIKES LISTED BELOW ARE AVAILABLE FOR SIGNUP ON OUR WEBSITE! HEAD ON OVER TO MAZAMAS.ORG/HIKING TO GET MORE DETAILS. FIND THE HIKE YOU WANT TO GO ON, CLICK ON THE LINK, AND FOLLOW THE SIGNUP PROMPTS.
If you prefer to sign up in person, contact the leader and let them know you plan to attend. They can give you any additional details that you will need about the hike.
HK B1.5 Feb. 2 Tilly Jane Snowshoe Rick Craycraft, 503-679-2113, leftfield5@juno. com. A classic snowshoe up to the Tilly Jane A-frame on the northeast side of Mt. Hood, and a bit of exploring beyond it if weather permits. Check in with leader about conditions before trip. 5.20 mi., 1,920 ft., Drive: 73, Gateway Park & Ride at 7:30 a.m.
HK A2 Feb. 10 Lacamas Lake Trail James Selby, 828-508-5094, selbyjb@comcast.net. We will be hiking Lacamas Lake Trail, south side of Lacamas Lake, Camas. Excellent winter trail but be sure to wear waterproof boots. Can be hiked rain or shine. On a sunny day nice view of Mt. Hood. On any day, lots of birds. Hike this one rain or shine; bring an umbrella if you want one. Appx. 7 miles. Meet at 11 a.m. at Gateway Transit Center.
SS B1.5 Feb. 3 Frog Lake Butt-Twin Lakes Snowshoe Loop. Joe Whittington, hoewhittington@gmail.com. Start at Frog Lake SnoPark. Go on Road 2610 to Frog Lakes Butte Trail and climb 1,300 ft. to the summit. We’ll descend to Lower Twin Lake and return to the SnoPark via the PCT. Total distance is about 7 miles with 1,700’ ft. of elevation gain. Trip will be cancelled if weather is unfavorable. This is an exploratory trip. We will meet at Gateway Park & Ride at 7 a.m. HK C2 Feb. 3. Cedar Swamp Hike. Dyanne Foster. dyfozter@gmail.com. Cedar Swamp Camp is located at the junction of the Herman Creek Trail and the Herman Creek Cutoff Trail. There are many old-growth western red-cedars, but a couple of them have recently (2013) fallen down over the trails. Numerous creeks run down the slope and through this area into the East Fork of Herman Creek. Meet at Gateway Transit Center at 7:30 a.m. to carpool. 2,640 ft. 14.6 miles. Class A: Easy to moderate; less than 8 miles and under 1,500 feet elevation gain Class B: Moderate to difficult; less than 15 miles with 1,500–3,000 feet elevation gain OR 8–15 miles with less than 1,500 feet of elevation gain Class C and Cw: Difficult to strenuous: 15+ miles in distance or 3,000+ feet elevation gain. Class D: Very difficult, strenuous trips in challenging conditions. No specific distance or elevation gain. Special equipment, conditioning, and experience may be required. Contacting leader for details before the day of the trip is mandatory. “Wilderness—Limit 12” indicates the hike enters a Forest Service-designated Wilderness
36 MAZAMAS
HK A1.5 Feb. 5 Whipple Creek Dog Hike Don E. McCoy, 503-246-7416, donald1020@ aol.com. Whipple Creek County Park has wide trails that allow hikers, bikers, horses and dogs on a leash. This is a 4.8 mile hike with 300 ft. of elevation. It can be muddy, so be prepared for cold rainy weather and bring towels for those wet dogs. Trailhead is at 17202 NW 21st Ave.; Ridgefield, WA. Meet at the trailhead at 9 a.m. HK B1.5 Feb. 6 Hamilton Mountain Loop Don E. McCoy, 503-246-7416, donald1020@ aol.com. This very popular trail has a feast of features for hikers, including waterfalls, craggy cliffs, deep forests, superb vistas, and a loop option for the trek. The outing can be done at any time of year although you will want to pay attention to icy spots in the winter. The summit itself is thicketed and offers limited views, but a bench a few yards back gives you a vista to the east of Table Mountain and the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge. Other views come from the trail on the way up and at the Hamilton Mountain Saddle as you continue on the loop. 7.5 mi., 2,100 ft., Drive: 88, MMC Parking Lot at 8 a.m.
Area; group size limited to 12. Numeral after class indicates pace. All pace information is uphill speed range; e.g. 1.5 = 1.5–2 mph: a slow to moderate pace; 2 = 2.0–2.5 mph: a moderate speed common on weekend hikes; 2.5 = 2.5–3.0 mph: a moderate to fast pace and is a conditioner. Hike fees/Snowshoe/Nordic Costs: $2 for members, $4 nonmembers; Backpack Costs: Vary depending on trip. Meeting Places: Gateway–SE corner of P and R Garage near 99th and Pacific (I-84 Exit 7); L and C–Lewis and Clark State Park (1-84 Exit 18); Oswego TC–Boones Ferry Rd at Monroe Parkway; Salmon Creek P and R–Vancouver P and R at 134 St (1-5 Exit 7 or 1-205 Exit 36); Parkrose/Sumner Transit Center–Sandy Blvd. and 98th Ave. (1-205
HK B2 Feb. 10 Kings Mountain Hike Bruce Giordano, 503-477-6013, brucegiord32@ gmail.com. A good workout in short amount of time as we will gain about 2,500 feet elevation in about 2.5 miles. Be prepared for winter conditions (warm layers, rain gear, traction devices). Trekking poles recommended. We will be meeting in the Target parking lot off SW 185th. Plan to leave promptly at 8 a.m. so should arrive at least by 7:50 to allow time to arrange carpools. 5 mi., 2,500 ft., Drive: 66, Target & SW 185th at 8 a.m. HK A1.5 Feb. 13 Falls Creek Falls (lower & upper falls) Jay Feldman, 808-234-9069, jayf1111@gmail.com. 6.2 mi., 1,040 ft., Drive: 120, MMC Parking Lot at 8 a.m.
Exit 23A); Durham–P and R at Boones Ferry and Bridgeport (1-5 Exit 290); MMC– Mazama Mountaineering Center, 527 SE 43rd at Stark; Pendleton–Pendleton Woolen Mills in Washougal; REI–Pearl, NW 14th and Johnson; Target185–Target P/L Sunset Hwy at 185th. Dr.–round-trip driving mileage. ft.–Hike elevation gain. TH Pass–USFS parking pass needed for trailhead; SnoPark–Snow park pass. FLTC–3510 SE 164th Ave. in Vancouver. 99th TC–9700 NE 7th Ave. in Vancouver. Trail Trips Hike Rules: Hikers are encouraged to carpool and share costs. The maximum suggested total rate each is a donation of ten cents per mile for up to three people per vehicle. Dogs are not allowed except for hikes designated as “dog-walks.” Alcohol and firearms are not allowed. Participants
should wear appropriate hiking shoes, and carry lunch, water, rain gear (umbrella, parka, or poncho), and the 10 essentials (whistle, extra food and clothing, sun protection, map, compass, flashlight, first aid kit, pocket knife, waterproof matches, fire starter). Participants should be in a physical condition appropriate for the difficulty of the hike. Leaders may decline anyone not properly equipped or judged incapable of completing the hike in a reasonable time frame. Hikers voluntarily leaving the group are considered nonparticipants. In case of accident, illness, or incapacity, hikers must pay their medical and/or evacuation expenses whether they authorize them or not. Hikes leave the meeting place at the time listed. Adverse conditions, weather, and combined circumstances can affect difficulty.
WEBSITE UPDATES Visit mazamas.org/ hiking for the most up to date hike schedule.
WESTSIDE STREET RAMBLES: TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS
Multiple teams hike at different paces with various leaders. Bring a headlamp. 4–8 miles, 500–1,500 feet. Meet at REI–Pearl, NW 14th and Johnson. Group leaves promptly at 6 p.m. Ramble information available at mazamas.org/ streetrambles
HK A1.5 Feb. 16 White River Canyon Moonlight Snowshoe David L Nelson, 503-627-4810, dkbmnelson@gmail.com.Plan is to head up White River Canyon approximately 2 miles enjoying the moonlight and surrounding landscape under the full moon (Full Moon is actually Feb. 19). Even if a bit cloudy, the experience is awesome. The pace will be easy to moderate. Questions: 4 mi., 730 ft., Clackamas Town Center Max Park & Ride Garage at 6:30 p.m. HK A2 Feb. 17 Lacamas Lake Trail. Jim Selby, selbyjb@comcast.net, We will be hiking Lacamas Lake Trail, south side of Lacamas Lake, Camas. Excellent winter trail but be sure to wear waterproof boots. Can be hiked rain or shine. On a sunny day nice view of Mt. Hood. On any day, lots of birds. Hike this one rain or shine; bring an umbrella if you want one. Appx. 7 miles. Meet at 11 a.m. at Gateway Transit Center. HK A2 Feb. 19 Crown Zellerbach, CZ Trailhead to Chapman Landing Don E. McCoy, 503-246-7416, donald1020@aol.com. This is an out and back 8.4 mile hike with an elevation gain of 125ft. We will start at the CZ Trailhead, which is on the Scapoose-Vernonia Hwy. We will hike along the old CZ logging road towards Hwy 30. We will cross Hwy 30 and take some streets and paved pathways down to the Chapman Landing which is on the Multnomah Channel. We will return the way we came. Well-behaved dogs are welcome, but you don’t need a dog to come on this hike. 8.4 mi., 125 ft., Meeting place is at the CZ Trailhead which across from the Scappoose (B&B) Market, address 32284 Scappoose-Vernonia Hwy. Meet at 9 a.m.
HK A1.5 Feb. 19 Winter Upper Salmon River Hike David Christopher, 503-317-5660, david.r.christopher@gmail.com. Meet at the Upper Salmon River trailhead parking at 9:15 a.m. and depart at 9:30 a.m. We will have lunch at and return from the rock outcrop overlooking the Salmon River valley & waterfall. I will have a stove, so bring your cup, extra water and coffee, tea or soup for a warm lunch drink. I recommend bringing traction spikes. If it is heavy rain, the hike will be cancelled, so please check Activity site or send me an email which will be answered before 8 a.m. the hike day. Our pace is steady and gentle. My whole point in being out is to share the experience with others and enjoy the sounds and sights that nature provides. Two books you might want to read before hiking on this beautiful trail: The Hidden Life of Trees, Peter Wohlleben and The Tree, John Fowles. 7.2 mi., 950 ft., Drive: 82, Salmon River Trailhead at 9:30 a.m. HK B2 Feb. 20 Hamilton Mt Saddle/Hardy Creek Bridge Loop Don E. McCoy, 503-2467416, donald1020@aol.com. We will start at the Equestrian Trailhead at Beacon Rock State park and hike up to the Saddle where we can have great views of the Gorge. We will continue up the Upper Hardy Trail from there and come back down the Bridge Trail. Meet at the MMC parking lot. 8.6 mi., 1,800 ft., MMC Parking Lot at 8 a.m. HK B1.5 Feb. 23 Neahkahnie Mountain Rick Craycraft, 503-679-2113, leftfield5@juno.com.A sweet hike on the coast that involves a walk along the coast, sweeping views to the south and a nice peaklet. Sometimes we luck out with one of those sunny windows in February. Preventative raingear for sure, but I’ve also led this in snow. We’ll see what late winter holds this year. 11.5 mi., 2,,400 ft., Drive: 156, Target & SW 185th at 7:30 a.m. HK C1.5 March 9 Larch Mountain Rick Craycraft, 503-679-2113, leftfield5@juno.com.A return to an old favorite in the Gorge! Early spring may promise a good snowpack which could turn this into a snowshoe. Stay tuned. From Multnomah Falls it’s 13.8 miles and 4,100 feet. A day’s work. Hey, climbing season is just around the corner. 13.8 mi., 4,100 ft., Drive: 48, Meet at 7:30 a.m., meeting location TBD.
MORE HIKING
See all of our hikes by going to mazamas.org/ calendar and applying the hike filter.
READY TO SIGNUP ONLINE? Head on over to mazamas.org/hiking to see our new website and a new way of viewing our upcoming hikes. Go to mazamas.org/ gettingstarted to learn how to create your account. It’s simple, and should take no more than 5 minutes to get up and running. Please review the information at mazamas. org/gettingstarted carefully before creating your account. If you still have questions after reading the information, email us at help@ mazamas.org. Once you start signing up for hikes online, you’ll be able to track your hike history directly on our website, along with your history of participation in other Mazama activities.
Security note: Your saved credit card is not hosted on a Mazama server. We use a third party processor to manage all payments. This ensures proper encryption and protection of your payment information.
FEBRUARY 2019 37
THIS MONTH IN EXECUTIVE COUNCIL (MAZAMA BOARD OF DIRECTORS) The next board meeting date is on Tuesday, Feb. 19. All meetings begin at 4 p.m. and are open to all members. There is a member comment period at 5:30 p.m. This summary has been approved by the Mazama President or Vice President for publication. Members can access full meeting minutes one month after the meeting by sending an email to adventure@mazamas.org and making a request.
TRANSITION TEAM UPDATE
by Mathew Brock, Library & Historical Collections Manager
by Marty Scott, Mazamas Vice President
President Laura Pigion called the Executive Council (EC) meeting to order at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, January 15. Following approval of the agenda, Treasurer Traci Manning gave an overview of the last fiscal year financials. Highlights include a deficit in fundraising funds due to delays in hiring the development director, lack of a sizable estate gift, and renovation work at the Lodge that was not included in the budget. Traci recommended, and Sarah agreed, that the current budget needs an overhaul to make month to month tracking easier. Secretary Laura Guderyahn asked for and received approval for the December meeting minutes. In her Acting Executive Director Report, Sarah Bradham gave an update on upcoming events including the Outdoor Retailer Show from January 30–February 1 in Denver, Basic Climbing Information Program information night on January 31 at the MMC, and the Backcountry Film Festival on February 1 and 2 at the MMC. In internal reporting, Sarah noted that staffing changes and challenges with Mazamas Foundation accounting practices will delay the annual audit. Justin Rotherham is working with Steve Kittel to develop a basic volunteer orientation program. Mazama Mountain Science School will resume this week and registration is open for Adventure WILD’s winter and spring sessions. In external reporting, Sarah let the Board know that the Mazamas, in collaboration with the Access Fund, filed a joint opposition letter about the new permitting regulations in the Central Cascades. The Federal Government shutdown will likely delay hearings on the topic. Sarah took part in the recent Oregon Outdoor Steering Committee meeting that focused on goals for the upcoming Oregon legislative session. Sarah ended her report by noting that planning for this year’s Portland Alpine Fest is ahead of schedule and that she is close to making a decision on the event’s venue. Erica Stock, Mazama Development Director, gave an update on fundraising and membership. She is currently developing new tracking metrics and has identified twentyfive potential grants totaling roughly $700,000 that the Mazama will be applying for in the next few months. After several weeks of hard work the development team met their end of year membership goal. Membership renewals and the addition of new members is on track. Erica ended her report by noting that individual donations are not only up compared to this time last year, but the average gift amount has also more than doubled. Vice President Marty Scott gave an update on the Executive Director Transition planning. The transition team is close to finalizing a draft job description for the position. She noted that the going away party for Lee Davis was a success and thanked Mathew Brock and Kelsey Shaw for their work organizing and running the event. The team has contacted several similar institutions that have recently hired a new Executive Director. Marty reported that the consensus is that the process usually takes between six to nine months and that three-quarters of the organizations utilized outside search firms to help in recruitment. Molly Mosenthal, Youth Program Coordinator, provided a comprehensive rundown of all the youth and community organizations the Mazamas is currently partnering with. Board member Robin Wilcox then introduced Lynny Brown, a Mazama member and member of PDX Climbers of Color. Lynny spoke about her time with the Mazamas and how that has intersected with PDX Climbers of Color. A discussion followed in which Lynny and the board discussed ways the Mazamas could further collaborate. The public part of the meeting ended with Robin agreeing to head a working group comprised of board and staff members to explore more ways the Mazamas can expand their diversity, equality, and inclusion work. No members chose to speak during the member comment period. The next Executive Council meeting is Tuesday, February 19 at 4 p.m.
Over the last month the transition team has continued the work necessary to prepare for the recruitment and selection of the Mazamas’ next Executive Director. During our research we determined that several other mountain focused clubs have recently hired new executive directors to replace current executive directors with long tenure with the organizations. We reached out to several of these organizations and interviewed members of the transition teams to learn about the process each organization used to hire their new executive. Each organization has completed their search and the new executive is on board. What we learned from these conversations is as follows. Each organization established an ad hoc board committee to oversee the process of recruiting and hiring a new executive director. It took from six to nine months for these organizations to complete the process. Three of the four organizations used an outside consultant to assist with the process. The one that ran their own search was fortunate to have two professional recruiters as board members. All of the organizations are pleased with their new executive directors and strongly recommended that we use a professional outdoor focused search firm to assist with our search. They indicated that organizing and running a search for a new executive director is a great deal of work, even with the help of a professional search firm. They further indicated that professional firms can ensure that the process is as efficient as possible and that professional firms can help us shape the process and incorporate volunteer staff and volunteer input throughout the process. The Executive Council will be considering these recommendations as we move forward and request input from various search firms. If you have comments or questions regarding the transition, you can email the transition committee at transition@ mazamas.org.
38 MAZAMAS
We love these places. *
*Love is a verb; without action, it is merely a word.
Green Trails Maps™ is committed to supporting trail maintenance and development. We contribute and work with trail advocacy organizations throughout the west to ensure you and your next generations have more and better access to these treasures. Green Trails ‘Boots on the Ground’ Mapping Crews walk the talk and mapeach step to ensure users have the most accurate and current trail information available.
www.facebook.com/GreenTrailsMaps
www.GreenTrailsMaps.com
206.546.MAPS (6277)
MazamasÂŽ 527 SE 43rd Ave. Portland OR 97215 www.mazamas.org
Mazama Periodical Postage Paid in Portland, Oregon