JUNE 2016 • VOL. 98 | NO.6
Summer
ADVENTURES What Will You Do?
Backpacking in the Wallowa Lakes Basin Hidden Gems of the North Cascades What’s Up in the Skies in June Lily in the Gorge: Escaping the July 4 Fireworks
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River in the beautiful Kalmpiopsis wilderness. Inset: FM101 students at Smith Rock State Park. Photo: Rich Hunter. Cover: Amy Walker climbs to new heights with belay from Derek Chinn. Photo: Rich Hunter.
Articles Kalmiopsis Wilderness Threatened, p. 9 Hidden Gems of the North Cascades, p. 10 Summer Adventures in Alaska, p. 14 Is ICS For You?, p. 18 When Fireworks on the Fourth Just Won't Do, p. 20 What's Up in the Skies this June? p. 22 Hiking the Oregon Coast Trail, p. 30 Mazamas Backpack in Wallowa Lakes Basin, p. 32 Contact Us MAZAMA MOUNTAINEERING CENTER | 527 SE 43rd Ave., Portland, Oregon, 97215 | 503-227-2345 | adventure@mazamas.org | Center Hours: Mon.–Thu. 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Fri. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. MAZAMA LODGE | 30500 West Leg Rd. •Government Camp, Oregon, 97028 | 503-272-9214 | Hours: Thu. Noon–Mon. Noon
Mazama Staff LEE DAVIS • Executive Director • lee@mazamas.org JAMIE ANDERSON •Member Services Manager • jamie@mazamas.org ADAM BAYLOR • Stewardship & Advocacy Manager • adam@mazamas.org SARAH BRADHAM • Marketing & Publications Manager • sarah@mazamas.org MATHEW BROCK • Library & Historical Collections Manager • mathew@mazamas.org LAURA BURGER • Membership & Development Assistant • laura@mazamas.org KATI MAYFIELD • Volunteer Manager •kati@mazamas.org CHARLES BARKER • Mazama Lodge Manager • mazama.lodge@mazamas.org
Publications Committee
Committee Chair: Kristie Perry, publications@mazamas.org; Committee Members: Ken DuBois, Joe Fox, Sue Griffith, Darrin Gunkel, Kevin Machtelinckx, Wendy Marshall, Lacy Turner. (publications_group@mazamas.org)
MAZAMA (USPS 334-780) Editor: Sarah Bradham (mazama.bulletin@mazamas.org). Advertising: mazama.ads@mazamas. org. Subscription: $15 per year. Bulletin material must be emailed to the editor. 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 6:30 p.m. on the second 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.
Monthly Columns
Executive Director's Report, p. 5 Volunteer Opportunities, p. 4 Upcoming Opportunities, p. 6 Time Warp, p. 17 Mazama Families, p. 24 Mazama Lodge, p. 26 Adventurous Young Mazamas, p. 27 Successful Climbers, p. 28 Classic Mazamas, p. 34 Membership Report, p. 23 Outings, p. 35 Trail Trips, p. 36 Executive Council, p. 39
ADVERTISER INDEX Active Adventures, p. 19 Base Camp Brewing Company, p. 25 CAMP, p. 8 Centered in Motion, p. 16 Classifieds, p. 23 Climb Max Mountaineering, p. 7 Embark Adventures, p. 17 & 34 Green Trails Maps, p. 40 Montbell, p. 39 Mountain Shop, p. 23 Next Adventure, p. 33 Oregon Mountain Community, p. 16 ShuttleBak.com, p. 38 Spot, p. 2 Sunny Freeman Real Estate, p. 25 Tracey Andrews Acupuncture, 38
Advertise now! tinyurl.com/ MazamaAdvertising JUNE 2016 3
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES OUTDOOR SCHOOL FOR ALL ONGOING—URGENT! Want to volunteer for the campaign to Save Outdoor School for All Oregon Kids? The Mazamas has joined the effort to recruit volunteers to collect SIGNATURES by the July deadline to get the campaign onto the November ballot and win outdoor school back for all Oregon kids. The campaign will provide materials and training to interested volunteers—sign up or learn more: www.outdoorschoolforall. org/mazamas-volunteer
PORTLAND ALPINE FEST JUNE 8 6 P.M. AT THE MMC
The Portland Alpine Festival is a weeklong festival for everyone who loves to play in the mountains. It includes presentations, slideshows, and clinics by top level athletes. The focus includes mountaineering, rock climbing, ice climbing, hiking, mountain running, tele skiing, and much more. We need a small army of volunteers to help organize this event. You can get involved in a variety of ways—to taking on a big role such as athlete coordination to signing up to manage the kegs and ice for the week. Come learn more about the event and see if it'll be a good fit for you. Questions? Email paf@ mazamas.org.
leisurely pace. We are recruiting folks to serve on our planning team, which meets at 11 a.m. on the last Monday of everyother month. The team recruits leaders to put on monthly events, organizes quarterly luncheons and other social activities. Enjoy time and camaraderie with good folks while planning these events. Contact Kate Evans, EC liaison, kateevans97@gmail.com, to learn more.
PROFESSIONAL ARBORIST SOUGHT FOR MMC PROJECT JUNE, FLEXIBLE We are looking for a professional arborist to assist us in removing a large tree from the MMC property. Please contact natalie@ natalielozano.com if you can help.
RTM HIKE LEADERS LABOR DAY WEEKEND, SEPT. 2–5
Mazama Hike Leaders: if you have always wanted to experience our annual Round the Mountain event, this is your chance! Hike leaders work in teams (do it with a friend!) to lead groups of hikers on the three-day event. Leaders are treated to free room and board, beautiful views, and wonderful camaraderie. Contact RTM Hike Coordinator Shane Harlson, rtm@mazamas. org to sign up or learn more.
FIRST AID COMMITTEE
KIDS CLIMB INSTRUCTORS NEEDED! ONGOING
Come to the next First Aid Committee meeting to learn all about what our committee does for the Mazamas. This could be the perfect fit for your volunteer talents! Questions? Contact firstaid@mazamas.org
Are you a kid and rock climbing expert? Do you have experience teaching climbing to kids? We’d love to hear from you! Both the Mazama Youth Outreach and Families programs have an ongoing need for enthusiastic rock instructors. Contact Kati Mayfield to learn more, kati@mazamas.org.
THURSDAY JUNE 23 7 P.M. AT THE MMC
CLASSIC MAZAMAS JUNE 27 The Classics Committee plans events and activities for long-time Mazama members and those who prefer to travel at a more
PROGRAMS COMMITEE ONGOING OCTOBER-MAY
Our wonderful Programs Committee is looking for additional volunteers to
MAZAMAS ANNUAL REPORT Here's a few highlights from 2015 PP PP PP PP PP PP
600+ volunteers 92,000+ hours of volunteer service 1,201 climbers reached a mountain summit 9,000 individuals hiked, rambled, and showshoed $11,090 in Expedition Grants awarded Read it online at issuu.com/mazamas $15,000 in Research Grants awarded
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KATI MAYFIELD VOLUNTEER MANAGER KATI@MAZAMAS.ORG
Curious about volunteering but don’t see an opportunity that interests you? Fill out the Mazama Volunteer Survey, tinyurl. com/MazVolSurvey, to let us know more about your skills and interests, and we’ll be in touch to brainstorm with you.
help plan for and execute our weekly speaker series. Volunteers will prepare the auditorium for each show, interview the guest speaker, set up the projector, microphone and sound system, make announcements and introduce the speaker (voluntary), control the lighting system, and after the show, collect and record donations, store equipment and chairs. Contact John Leary, Programs Chair, to learn more: at programs@mazamas.org
PARTNER VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: INSPIRING CONNECTIONS OUTDOORS ONGOING
The Sierra Club’s Inspiring Connections Outdoors (ICO) program creates opportunities through outdoor experiences for personal growth, lifestyle change, and leadership skill development. The program is seeking volunteers to lead and to chaperone day hikes for local youth. Join us for a meeting and volunteer orientation the first Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Sierra Club offices at 1821 SE Ankeny, or contact Kati Mayfield, kati@mazamas.org for more information.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Increasing the Leadership Pipeline Dear Members, Mountain climbers, adventurers, explorers, and pioneers inspire us to break out of our routines and seek adventure through new and unknown experiences. At the Mazamas, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to explore and enjoy the mountains, and Mazama programs exist to make that possible. We also believe that active recreation in the mountains consistently creates experiences of joy and inspiration which make us happier, healthier, and help build stronger communities in our region. These beliefs are the basis of our vision of everyone enjoying and protecting the mountains. In some ways we’re doing very well at working towards our vision. Our Basic Climbing Education Program (BCEP) graduated over two hundred and twenty eager climbers this May and even more are starting through our Summer BCEP program in June. And while our climbing activity programs serve thousands of people each year, we also know that many interested people have been unable to get on any climbs at all. For many who get turned away, it isn’t because they aren’t qualified. It’s simply that we don’t have enough climbs scheduled to meet the demand. Nearly all of our hiking programs, events, camps, and other programs are experiencing similar problems. Overall, the problem we face is that we are unable to react to the increase in demand for our activities and programs. Specifically, our program-service model, or the way we organize people and resources to provide activities, classes, and events, is not scalable. In order for this model to be scalable, we need more fully trained leaders, and to have more leaders we need to be able to do two things. First, we need to better care for, appreciate, and recognize the leaders we already have. And second, we need to find a way to recruit and train many more leaders per year than we’ve ever considered before. Organically, and across all programs, our leadership development systems bring in roughly forty new leadership candidates per year. After months, and sometimes years, of training, less than half typically
become active leaders. The question we’re working on is: what would it take to train two or four, or even ten times that many leaders? Questions like these are helping us see the barriers in our current systems and forcing us to think differently about solutions. Because we’re clear that we have a program capacity problem rooted in the very structure by which we develop leaders, we decided to invest in changing that structure. It’s a big project that will take several years to complete, but we are making good progress. Last year, we hired Alex Kosseff, of the Outdoor Safety Institute, to evaluate our leadership development systems. He made a series of recommendations which reinforced many of our previous strategic decisions (like investing in better IT systems, adding experiential trainings for leaders, adding flexibility to continuing education, and improving communications with our leaders). Interestingly, Alex just took a new job as the Executive Director of the AMGA, the American Mountain Guides Association. This move is good for the Mazamas because it means that we have an opportunity now to look at creating leadership systems at the Mazamas that end where guide training starts. More than a few of our best and brightest leaders have thought about becoming professional guides. Our volunteer manager, Kati Mayfield, climb leader and class coordintor Justin Rotherham, and key members of our Climbing and Education Committees are now working on developing a new leadership framework. The framework will more clearly define our different leader types, and provide clarity on what new
training programs we need to develop to start building a larger corps of leaders. The Leadership Cohort, which Kati organizes, is the first pilot program we launched as a
With support from our board, our staff, key volunteers, our existing leaders, and the Mazamas Foundation we will build a new system that will create many new opportunities for all of you to get out and enjoy the mountains. part of this project. It has generated more than fifteen new activity, education, and committee leaders each year for two years and is becoming a regular program for the Mazamas. We know that for the Mazamas to attain our vision we need to find and train many more leaders. More hike leaders, climb leaders, teachers, mentors, and program managers will be needed. More than five hundred new people a year engage in Mazama programs, which provides an excellent pipeline to expand our leadership. With support from our board, our staff, key volunteers, our existing leaders, and the Mazamas Foundation we will build a new system that will create many new opportunities for all of you to get out and enjoy the mountains. Lee Davis
Executive Director
JUNE 2016 5
Upcoming Opportunities SUMMER SOLSTICE PARTY Kick off summer with games, gear demos, food, beer and live music from Farnell Newton and Hillstomp. There will even be a rock wall on site for you to play on! Not only can you enjoy a day of fun and great beer, but you can also help support Outdoor School for All—purchase a STANLEY pint and proceeds from the sale will benefit Outdoor School For All. This event is free and open to all ages. ▶▶ When: June 18; 3 p.m.–close ▶▶ Where: Base Camp Brewing Company, 930 SE Oak St. ▶▶ More Information: summersolsticePDX.com
UNVEILING THE MYSTIQUE Join local women to discuss what it takes to climb in the gym, the mountains, and everywhere in between. Bring your burning questions, your helpful tips, and your desire to connect with other female climbers! Portland has a wealth of resources in its female climbers; be one and benefit from others. Short presentation by Rebecca Schob Madore and Valerie Uskoski focused on helping you take the next step toward your goals. Hosted by Arc'teryx with snacks and refreshments from Happy Mountain Kombucha, Base Camp Brewing Company, and Union Wine. There will also be a raffle. Rebecca and Valerie have both been involved in the Mazamas for several years. Rebecca's desire for challenge has inspired her to climb throughout the Americas, from Alaska to Argentina. Valerie is a native of Washington and has been with Evolution Healthcare and Fitness since March 2015. ▶▶ When: June21; 7–9 p.m. ▶▶ Where: Arc'teryx Portland, 605 NW 23rd Ave.
WOMEN’S NIGHT TUESDAY JUNE 21 7:00 - 9:00PM Get ready for climbing! Technique clinic plus local areas to climb. Evolution Healthcare and Fitness have training tips, and a local woman shares her slideshow of recent adventures!
FOOD/DRINKS PRODUCT DEMOS GIVEAWAYS
WIN
WOMEN’S CLIMBING OUTFIT
MOUNTAIN RUNNING CAMP This camp is geared towards road and trail runners interested in taking their running to the mountain environment as well as honing their mountain running skills. This 2 1/2-day, 2-night camp includes clinics, group runs, discussion of training philosphies and mountain safety, excellent camaraderie, instruction by top level athletes, an Icebreaker t-shirt, great food, and more! Led by Yassine Diboun, Amy Sproston, Joelle Vaught, and Jason Leman. ▶▶ When: July 29–31 ▶▶ Where: Mt. Hood, Mazama Lodge ▶▶ More Information: tinyurl.com/MazMtnRun
ROUND THE MOUNTAIN RSVP: arcteryxportland-definefeminine.eventbrite.com
evolutionhealthcareandfitness.com
605 NW 23rd Ave Portland, OR 97210 arcteryx.com/portland 503-808-1859
Hike most of the Timberline Trail with only a day pack as you are shuttled to various launch points each day from the Mazama Lodge serving as your base camp. At Mazama Lodge, near Government Camp, you’ll enjoy great food, hot showers, a comfortable place to sleep, and stories from the day before turning in for the evening. ▶▶ When: Sep. 3–5 ▶▶ Where: Mt. Hood, Mazama Lodge ▶▶ Cost: $390 members/$450 nonmembers ▶▶ More Information: tinyurl.com/MazamaRTM
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MAZAMA MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
DID YOU KNOW?
Whether you are a lifelong Mazama member, currently enrolled in the Basic Climbing Education Program, 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 oldest 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, activites, and events delivered to your door monthly. • DISCOUNTS at local retailers and gyms. Icebreaker, Mountain Hardwear, The Mountain Shop, Mountaineers Books, Next Adventure, Oregon Mountain Community, Portland Rock Gym, Patagonia, Prana Portland, Redpoint Climber’s Supply, Rock & Ice Magazine, Sharp End Books, Trail Butter, US Outdoor Store
• Access to Mazama Lodge at the base of Mt. Hood, along with great member rates. • Access to SPECIAL MEMBER PAGES on the Mazama website with climbing route information and much more. • Free RESCUE INSURANCE anywhere in the world below 6,000 meters. • Full access to the world-class MOUNTAINEERING LIBRARY.
▶▶ Stay connected with Mazamas on Facebook. Like our page today: facebook. com/mazamas.pdx ▶▶ Read the Mazama Bulletin online at issuu.com/mazamas. The publication is in full color and is easily readable on tablets and laptops. ▶▶ You can download a PDF of the Bulletin if you login to the Member pages of the Mazama website. Login, click on the Members tab and click on Mazama Bulletin & Annual. ▶▶ You can advertise your business in the Mazama Bulletin. Go to tinyurl.com/ MazamasAds for details. ▶▶ Read interesting Mazama stories, and relevant information from around the web on the Mazama blog. Mazamas.blogspot. com
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8 MAZAMAS
Kalmpiopsis Wilderness
by Kyle Ashby, Wild Rivers Campaign Coordinator for American Rivers (501c3)
R
ight now, folks in Southwest Oregon are fighting to protect their clean water from potential strip mining. We have teamed up with American Rivers to keep this place producing salmon, steelhead, clean water for thousands, and some of the best outdoor recreation Oregon has to offer. The full story— Last year, Oregon Senators Wyden and Merkley along with Representatives DeFazio (OR) and Huffman (CA) lead the charge towards protecting the highest concentration of Wild and Scenic Rivers in the contiguous United States. The Smith, Rogue, and Illinois Rivers are threatened by proposed industrial nickel strip mining that could decimate these remarkable watersheds. The delegation, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Dept. of the Interior have all taken actions to protect these threatened areas. The sought after protections can get a little tricky. The delegation of Wyden, Merkley, DeFazio, and Huffman introduced The Southwestern Oregon Watershed and Salmon Protection Act of 2015 (H.R. 682 and S. 346) earlier last year. This legislation would permanently protect these deserved lands, but it takes time. Meanwhile the
foreign owned company, vying for two of the three areas, wants to move forward. Federal agencies stepped up with a temporary ban and a public process to consider a 5-year ban on new mining while Congress considers the introduced legislation. This ban would prevent new mining claims and require proposed mines to meet a rigorous review process. Over the past year, our collective work has contributed to a locally-driven campaign with growing support from: ▶▶ 33,000 signatures collected ▶▶ 200 local businesses ▶▶ 50 organizations ▶▶ 140 scientists ▶▶ 600 supporters overwhelmed the opposition at two town hall meetings. According to the EPA, the metal mining industry is the largest toxic polluter in the United States. Their report states that 88 metal mines account for 47%(nearly 2
billion pounds) of toxic chemical disposal in America. That is roughly 22 million pounds of chemicals that “cause cancer or other chronic human health effects” per mine. Abundant salmon, steelhead, cutthroat, and world-renown biologically diverse plant species are not the only dependents of these exemplary waterways. Local communities in Southwestern Oregon and Northern California also depend on these rivers for clean drinking water, recreational and commercial fishing, and a recreational economy that brings hundreds of thousands of dollars to the area each year. This delegation’s continued commitment to watershed and wilderness protection has lead us in the right direction. Now it’s on us to take the next step. These are federally owned lands and therefore are owned by every citizen of the United States. JUNE 2016 9
N E D HID S M GE of the
North Cascades
M
by Barry Maletzky ost of us know about the snow-clad, rugged giants north of Mt. Rainier. Yet, due to distance and a five-day work week for many Mazamas, these giants only rarely appear on the Climbing Schedule. In my opinion these areas, such as the Glacier Peak Wilderness, the North Cascades National Park, and the Mt. Baker/Snoqualmie Wilderness, contain the most spectacular scenery in the lower 48. Blessed with almost too much winter moisture, glaciers abound, cradling gushing streams and waterfalls, feeding the rich volcanic soil, and nurturing gardens of wildflowers seemingly seeded in heaven. These descriptions are written not as definitive guides to access and routes, but to encourage the outdoor enthusiast to seek out these areas off the main tracks we Mazamas so often trod and discover their jeweled treasures. SLOAN PEAK (7,835 FT.) Among these “hidden” gems, Sloan may shine the brightest in terms of Mazama popularity. Ruling in majestic isolation at the western end of the Glacier Peak Wilderness, Sloan’s Matterhorn-like, convoluted appearance belies its relatively benign nature as a climb, at least by its regular route. Sloan’s distinctive horn can be easily identified from most other peaks in the western Cascades, from Rainier all the way to the Canadian border. You may have to get your feet wet crossing a branch of the Sauk River, so autumn is the preferred season for Sloan. A steep approach trail is rewarded by campsites in a secret meadow guarded by rugged towers of stone. The gradual ascent of the Sloan Glacier leads the climber from east of the summit almost, but not quite, around
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the peak (hence the name of the route as “The Corkscrew”); a usually easy climb up the rocks at the highest western point of the glacier brings one to a surprisingly pleasant meadow stroll through alpine flora to the rocky summit (reached by Class 3 scrambling). Views are handsomely rewarded of the Monte Cristos to the southeast and Glacier Peak just across the river.
place you’ll usually have to yourself. (Try to keep the meadow in as natural a state as you can—there are rare flowers hidden here.) Turn north at the ridge and scramble stable talus to the rocky top, where a few rare species of alpine floral jewels remain in bloom throughout the summer. The views encompass all of the Glacier Peak Wilderness as well as the North Cascades Peaks in all their glory.
FORTRESS (8,760 FT.) After a long ride on a dirt track, followed by a 9-mile path tempered by the beauty of magic meadows and surrounding peaks, one reaches Buck Creek Pass, surely one of the most glorious places to camp, especially to catch the fading sun setting over Glacier Peak. On climb day, head north on a climber’s track, then ascend the southwest gardens of Fortress, a secret
COLONIAL/SNOWFIELD PEAKS (7,771/8,347 FT.) These jewels, securing the western end of the National Park, occasionally appear on the Mazama Climb Schedule, and for good reason. Once past the trail to Pinnacle Lake, a climber’s path can be followed to a magnificent ridge that offers vistas north and south into snow-covered heights, including Snowking, the mysterious Illabot
range, with its pointed pencil of a peak: Mt. Chaval, and grand views northwest to the Picket Range (and Baker and Shuksan). Most parties climb Colonial but an extra day ascending Snowfield broadens the views further and provides a chance to walk one of the most beautiful glaciers in the range, the Neve Glacier: broad, serene and embraced at both side moraines by flowery gardens interspersed with rugged ramparts of multi-colored rock. Both ascents feature glacier travel ending in brief Class 3 rock scrambles. One further benefit: a view into the Teebone and Backbone Ridges, with names to excite the adventurous, such as The Sacrum, The Coccyx, and Lumbar Point, all rarely seen from any easily-reached vantage point. FORBIDDEN (8,815 FT.) Forbidden bears its name well; although not of towering height, abrupt angular landforms lead, more steeply as you ascend, to a summit tip sufficiently edged to make most climbers dread to tread. However, Forbidden has become an increasingly popular climb due to its east ridge, which goes at about 5.7, and its more frequently climbed west ridge, at about 5.5. It also has the benefits of being in one of the most gorgeous settings for a base camp: Boston Basin. Forbidden’s immense obelisk of rock provides chillingly grandiose
views from either ridge, as well as from its summit. All the North Cascade peaks up to Baker are there for the taking, but to my eyes, the sawteeth of Ripsaw Ridge, with countless shards of rock jutting above the immense white sheet of the Boston Glacier and stretching all the way to Mt. Buckner, is one of the most overpowering and memorable sights in any range I have visited in the lower 48. Reaching this summit and making it back down again will provide you with more than hero cred; it will inspire dreams of towers and walls previously unimaginable. This is the closest one can come to Patagonia without leaving this country. BOSTON PEAK (8.894 FT.) Boston is a rarely attempted alternative to the crowded Mt. Sahale; the views are similar to those from Sahale but even more far-flung, ranging from Rainier to the south through the sharpened teeth of the Pickets, and most of the significant mountains in the National Park. Do not be alarmed by the view of Boston from Sahale; appearing from the south as a sharpened vertical shroud, the actual climb is graded at Class 3 with a few stretches of brief Class 4. Aficionados of shattered rock will appreciate the ascent up a well-defined line on the southeast face. A relatively large ridge trends eastward toward a series of chimney and face
Clockwise, from left: Steve Marston on Forbidden Peak. Photo: Al Papesh. View as a Mazama group descends Sloan Peak: Dome Peak to the left with wide summit, Sinister Peak is saw-toother shape to the right. Photo: Bob Breivogel. Climber on the summit of Mt. Larrabee, 1.5 miles south of the Canadian border (“All-in-all, no finer view can be obtained without a rope in all these ranges”) Photo: Beau Ramsey.
moves with stable holds all the way to the view-laden summit. While hard hats are a necessity, many parties fail to use a cord, fearful of falling rock. Much closer views of the North Cascade giants will be your reward: Eldorado, anchoring the range to the west, its northern ridge of castellated pinnacles terminating in the massifs of Snowfield and Colonial Peaks; and the steeply angled slopes of Terror and Despair; all backcountry views to be savored by the very few venturing beyond Sahale. RAGGED RIDGE (7,408—8795 FT.) An oft-neglected ridge paralleling the North Cascades Highway west to east, Ragged presents the largest unbroken series of rugged summits outside of the Pickets in the entire North Cascades. Beginning in the west with Red Mountain, an easy scramble from a campsite in Fourth of July Basin, the ridge continues with scrambling on flaky rock. The adventurous party could run the entire ridge in several days, traversing high
continued on next page JUNE 2016 11
Climbers are the only folks I know who celebrate at half-time—you still have to descend!
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Hidden Gems, continued from previous page points such as Cosho, Kimtah, and Katsuk Peaks (mostly scrambles at the Class 3 level). Near its east end, the tallest and best-known summit, Mesachie Peak (Class 4 in spots), pierces the Washington sky with fractured gullies and jagged pinnacles. Most of these peaks can be ascended in a single day from bug-infested camps along Fisher Creek. So why go? To stand on a pinnacle here and there that no other person on earth has ever shared? Yes, but I think it’s the views: seemingly world-wide and ever changing. Rarely would anyone have the opportunity to summit a peak and see the full extent of the National Park, from Goode, Logan and Silver Star in the east, to El Dorado in the west. SILVER STAR (8,876 FT.) Anyone travelling the North Cascades Highway can’t help but be impressed with the hulk of Silver Star, with its jagged tottering towers and gables of rock. This marvel of the eastern part of the National Park area, the highest point in the Methow Range, offers spectacular views of its west and north sides from the multiple loops of Highway 20. A relatively easy single-day ascent is feasible from the highway up the eastern gullies, traversing a glacier then scrambling Class 3 rock. Crampons and ice axe are advised: crossing over to the north face, the glacier can be crevassed after midsummer and portions can be steep. Views of the Yosemite-like eastern faces of Liberty Bell, Early Winters Spires, and Kangaroo Ridge right next door make the trip from Portland more than worthwhile. In addition, the rarely seen Mts. Azurite and Ballard to the north, and the appropriatelynamed Needles, sharply incised Cutthroat and Mt. Wheeler, all to the northeast, impress from across the highway. Most parties take an extra day camping at Early Winters Campground and visit the ersatz cowboy town of Winthrop for well-earned beer, burgers and ice cream. CRATER MOUNTAIN (8,128 FT.) Sometimes it feels good, especially for a weekend punter like me, to just meander up an easy peak from a superb campsite and take in the views without having to worry about making it down alive. (Climbers are the only folks I know who celebrate at half-time—you still have to descend!) Right next to the behemoth of
Jack Mountain, but absent the drama of hidden crevasses, impenetrable Class 5.9 brush, and the multiple route choices of its fearsome neighbor to the north, Crater is approached by the well maintained McMillan Park-Jackita Ridge Trail to Crater Lake. A base camp on the ridge above the lake provides ample views of most of the North Cascades plus a vista of Jack (which makes you happy you aren’t attempting that convoluted giant the next day). A climber’s path leads across scree and flower-filled meadows until you are presented with a headwall. But not to fear, the way is marked by huge yellow dots painted on the rocks by an explorer anxious to not lose the way; the dots point out the easiest and most stable holds (Class 3 at most). You emerge again upon a sandy plain dotted with alpine flowers and proceed up the climber’s path to the summit. Views are unique: Azurite and Ballard to the east, while Jack dominates as never before, raising its steely heights above the Jerry Glacier. You can spot (and argue about) the many North Cascades summits visible, including Colonial and Snowfield to the west, the Dome group to the south, and the Needles to the east. ICY PEAK (7,073 FT.) Who hasn’t climbed Ruth Mountain, northeast of Mt. Baker, and exclaimed, “This is the best view for the easiest climb I’ve ever done.” They may be wrong: the view from Ruth’s southern neighbor, Icy Peak, may be even more magnificent (although it cannot be climbed by the average mountaineer in a day and requires glacier gear). From the Hannegan Pass Trail, haul your pack up the climber’s track to some of the loftiest and most viewworthy campsites in all the North Cascades. You’ll probably have time to tarry a bit to enjoy the luscious blueberries (Vaccinium deliciosum—really!). On climb day you may want to tag Ruth’s summit as you pass very near its top rocks. Gently ascend the glacier on Icy’s western front until you are directly south of the three crags comprising the summit configuration. Most folks then choose the western-most of three gullies (Class 3-4) to the Northwestern Peak, but it’s just as easy to scramble to the true high point, the Southeast Summit, by traversing Class 3 craggy rock and one easy gully
(hard hats!). Either provides more than the human eye can fully encompass, all overwhelmed by the astonishingly vertical Nooksack Tower, deemed the toughest climb in all the Cascades. The rumble of seracs collapsing into Nooksack Cirque provides a fitting tribute to this ultimate pleasure of the Hannegan Pass region. MT. LARRABEE (7,861 FT.) Larrabee is a long drive from Portland but well worth the trip; it equals Ruth and Icy as the easiest climb for the most stupendous views. This one-day climb begins after a jarring drive past the trail to Mt. Tomyhoi and Twin Lakes, to the High Pass Trail. As the trail heads up toward High Pass, Mt. Larrabee is the reddish summit straight ahead that looks like a loose pile of rocks (it is) shaped like a pyramid. Climbers aim for the white streak standing out from the iron-rich rock and follow it, with its multiple gullies and fields of loose rock, to the talus slope that leads to the summit. Views extend from Glacier Peak in the distant south along with the entire Dome Range, to Baker and Shuksan, then the Pickets and, closer in, the steep American and Canadian Border Peaks, and the incredibly angled rock spires of the Pleiades to the east. Views rarely seen from any other peak south of the border open up to the north: The snows of Garibaldi shine in the distance while closer at hand, the marvelous Canadian sub-range, the Cheam. Perhaps best of all, the fang of Slesse to the east makes one either cringe at its vertical walls or relish its numerous absurdly technical routes (I cringe). All-in-all, no finer view can be obtained without a rope in all these ranges. Author Bio: Barry Maletzky, M.D. has been a Mazama since 1967 and made a habit of driving to the North Cascades or Olympics almost every weekend from May through October. He has not kept a detailed record of successes or failures at summiting, for obvious reasons, but will admit that lousy weather may have hampered his attempts at certain times. He has, however, worn out a number of vehicles in these attempts.
Left: Steve Marston descending the west ridge of Forbidden Peak. Photo: Al Papesh. JUNE 2016 13
r e m m u S
in Alaska
by Wendy Currie-Marshall
I
never imagined my last full year in college would prove to be such a high-powered introduction to wilderness adventure. As a Geophysics student I'd been on a number of required field trips, some overnight, and a couple years earlier I took the plunge with Western Washington's outdoor club to try waterfall ice climbing in Lillooet, British Columbia. But a mandatory spring semester field course mapping major geologic features and their various rock types from California throughout the Southwest also became my crash course in outdoor hiking, living, and safety. Along with my mapping tools, details such as protective sun clothing, dust gaiters, and three litres of water not only became routine but were crucial in the desert heat, as I spent day after amazing day among the rocks. Thunderstorms, flash floods, and high winds tested our new backcountry camping skills. Six weeks later I was thousands of steps closer to discovering my limits; and mere days after leaving the southwest desert, I stepped off an airplane into a wonderland of outdoor adventure in Fairbanks, Alaska. Thanks to its central location, Fairbanks is a good base for day hikes, weekend trips and multi-day tours to explore the Forget-MeNot state. I'd come as a science intern, a research attachĂŠ on a climate change project, but our organizers at the Geophysical Institute never intended for us to spend the region's twenty-one hours of daylight in front of a computer. Optional hikes came with our work study package, and some weekends we interns struck out on our own. I purchased an old external-frame pack from a thrift store, and my field camp experience soon made itself valuable indeed. ALASKA RANGE: GULKANA GLACIER In mid-June we explored the moraines and lower tongue of the Gulkana Glacier, with a stop at the famous "Galloping" Black Rapids Glacier on the way. You can turn this day hike into an overnighter, as we did, equipped with full packs, tents, and one cream-colored canine companion. Going south from Fairbanks, we took the Richardson
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The author next to Little Coal Creek. Directly behind, Denali reposes amid a few clouds.
Dry tundra along Kesugi Ridge. Note clear trail and marking cairn to the right of approaching hikers. Crossing suspension footbridge over Phelan Creek. Photos: Wendy Currie-Marshall
Highway over Isabel Pass, then turned left onto a gravel road at milepost 197.5. After four bumpy miles I was looking out over a beautifully stark, outwash-scoured miniature canyon with a wild, milky creek racing through it—and our only path across: a long, narrow, swinging footbridge worthy of Indiana Jones. If I hadn't warmed to adventure yet, I certainly did crossing that bridge (not as as rickety as it looked) with a literal spring in my step. From here we hiked three miles to the Gulkana Glacier which, like others I came to study, is receding. (Its ice has likely retreated since my visit, and it's possible that new outflow creeks are changing the approach zone on a yearly basis.) I got a great introduction to glacial dynamics, surrounded by a moonscape of moraines, cracked boulders, sorted piles of sediment, and other visible signs of the power of ice. I grew up playing on Washington State's coastal rocks, so a fair warning: This is a place you'll want to step carefully to avoid tripping or rolling an ankle. We ventured only a short way onto the ice. Angie had packed her boyfriend's Charlet-Moser Quarks (my dream ice tool at the time) but didn't get to use them. As always in the company of glaciers, we moved with caution, even over obvious bare ice; before you step, stop, then test. Most fractures and crevasses were visible, thanks to summer temperatures, but occasionally thick snowdrifts hid deep cracks or surface streams. Dan, a retired Army vet, carried a thin collapsible pole marked in foot-long sections of red and
white. He slid it carefully into a soft white drift barring our path, under which we could hear running water. Two, four, six and counting feet of the pole vanished in the deep snow. Dan summed up our feelings: "Ahhhh . . . no." On this trek, Plan B meant mishap-free. DENALI STATE PARK: KESUGI RIDGE TRAIL Some people rank Kesugi Ridge as their number one Alaska hike, and I can see why. It's beautiful, rich with the feel of Alaskan wilderness, yet not too strenuous. The trail is located in Denali State Park, next door to Denali National Park, with the Chulitna River running in the lush valley between. If you're fortunate, a main attraction to Kesugi (meaning "the ancient one" in native Tanaina) is a glimpse of the highest peak in the U.S. Denali creates its own weather systems, so you have a thirty percent chance seeing the mountain; I was fortunate. On a weekend in early July, I and three other interns drove the Parks Highway to Mile 163, the Little Coal Creek trailhead. By starting at Little Coal Creek, we avoided the higher altitude gain at Byers Lake and reached the ridge sooner. We still had a nice stiff climb through bright green forest for the first two miles, until we ascended past treeline. The weather was gorgeous and Denali immediately greeted us in full view like a benevolent spirit. We easily forded Little Coal Creek, a cute leaping stream full of boulders, and continued uphill through a lovely alpine
pass. I feared getting lost at first, but this trail is popular and well-marked with rock cairns. My worries fell away as I breathed in the expansive air of miles of open tundra speckled with tiny wildflowers, the pale granite path crunching pleasantly beneath my boots. We camped in a little swale full of flowers and tundra herbs. Remember, Alaska is bear country! We buried our food under boulders a considerable distance from our tent. Water was another consideration. My roommate Andrea had iodine tablets, which we added to creek water to kill any microorganisms; the iodine turned my trusty square white Nalgene bottle yellow, like a giant pat of butter. The second day we passed sweeping tundra meadows, bright pockets of snow, and gardens of rocks shaped like mushrooms. Denali watched over us magnificently the whole time, at one point flanked by twin columns of cloud like the pillars of a temple. On our final stretch of ridge, I saw a lake far below, glittering in the sun. We lost the path for a bit and bushwhacked toward the lake. Because parts of the route cross lowlands, bring insect repellent! With multiple trailheads, this hike can last one to five days. We chose to end at Ermine Hill trailhead for a two-day, 17.2 mile trip. Toni bummed a lift back to Little Coal Creek to grab our car; I felt strong enough to keep hiking.
continued on next page JUNE 2016 15
Alaska, continued from previous page BROOKS RANGE: ATIGUN RIVER Alaska's wilderness looks like the Pacific Northwest completely uninterrupted by buildings; 300 miles without a gas station. Thus began my venture up the legendary Dalton Highway, and such a drive it was! Our research team camped at the Arctic Circle, greeted by the thickest clouds of mosquitos I've ever encountered. With a face net and plenty of DEET, I minded less than I feared, and we played music (guitar, bowls, rocks…) in the shelter of tent mesh. Morning saw us at Coldfoot, a former mining camp. A record low of -82°F set in 1971 made me glad to be visiting Coldfoot in the summer, even with bugs. Forests of tiny, stunted conifers betrayed permafrost, earth frozen year-round. We drove on, finally leaving the Arctic's northernmost tree behind us. After crossing Atigun Pass in the Brooks Range we made camp again (complete with marshmallows) and the following day hiked up Atigun Gorge. This day hike transported me to a dream realm of mist-filled Alpine valleys, rocky sentinels and green-velveted hillsides. It's a good eight miles, much of it on slanted terrain. We ducked under the Trans-Alaska pipeline, then kept to the upper slopes above the Atigun River on so-called dry tundra for easier footing. On any tundra with no marked path, it's best to fan out to reduce human impact. The most outstanding feature of this hike is Atigun Falls, which waits like a birthday present around a bend, pouring straight from a culvert in the mountainside. I longed to scale it one day! We returned at lower elevation on wet tundra, where tufts of
Portland’s premier shop on the East Side.
grass in sodden ground made for tricky footing, and wildflowers and mosquitoes competed for my attention. But no bug bites could taint my experiences in this stunning landscape. My summer in Alaska seemed all too short. On my final deep blue night, the Last Frontier offered a parting gift: I saw a strange green movement in the sky, and a moment later realized I'd seen the Northern Lights for the first time. MORE FUN IN FAIRBANKS Are you staying or just passing through? A former Gold Rush town, Fairbanks has its own interesting culture and annual festivals. Mix it up with locals at these fun events. GOLDEN DAYS (JULY 20–24, 2016) The Golden Heart City's equivalent of Portland's Rose Festival features a parade, street fair, comedy, competitions, BBQ feast and more. You literally can't miss the Rubber Ducky Race, which gilds the Tanana River with thousands of rubber duckies, each bearing a number and lottery bid. Equally funny is watching muscular dudes in motorboats round all those little guys up. More at newsminer. com. MOSQUITO MEANDER Bring your Deet®! This is an annual five or ten kilometre run in the Fairbanks area. Side-effects may include a big grin, a few bites, and a T-shirt with a cartoon mosquito on it. WORLD ESKIMO-INDIAN OLYMPICS. (YES, IT'S REALLY CALLED THAT) No bobsledding here; rather you'll find competitive blanket-toss, colorful native dances, and even a seal-skinning contest, along with fine local crafts and products. Be on lookout for more arts and craft fairs. I stumbled on a couple and found everything from hand-drawn antique maps, to lynx claws and leatherwork. Skip the generic tourist souvenirs, these Alaskan artisans are out making and trading the real thing. Author Bio: Wendy Currie-Marshall is a glacial scientist and winter sports enthusiast who completed the Mazama Basic Climbing Education Program in 2014. After growing up in the San Juan Islands with two cynical parents and a one-eyed cat, she majored in Geophysics at Western Washington University. She plans to return to science following her transition to a full-time writing career, and also enjoys playing rock guitar.
Oregon Mountain Community 2975 NE Sandy Blvd. Portland, OR Hours: M-F 10-7 SAT 10-6 SUN 12-5 503-227-1038
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503.684.9698
TIME WARP
by Jack Grauer
A look back at the way things things were at the Mazamas. 1966—50 YEARS AGO
1926—90 YEARS AGO
The May Mazama Bulletin announced: The Girls Capture Mount Hood. Join our Ladies Only climb on the south side on Saturday, June 18, 1966. Hair spray, eyelash curlers, anything you want to carry will be in vogue. There will be prizes and surprises with ribbons and bows; fancy hat contest, make-up contest on the summit, pretty ice axes, and a summit party. We may even perfume the summit box. Pick up a prospectus at the clubrooms, and sign up now! Leader: Dorothy Harrington, Assistant: Dorothy Rich Dancing! “We are waiting for you!” said the Mazama House Committee. We will continue to dance through May 20. The group has been small, but the instruction is good, and the evenings pass with the speed of real enjoyment. We are still learning new dances every week, so come whenever you can. The last Friday, May 20, will be a family night with dances for all ages. So gather your children and grandchildren, and we’ll see you at the clubrooms. A program on May 18, 1966 at the Mazama center at 909 NW 19th Avenue was presented by Myron Levy and Ty Kearney. They showed films of the Olympic Strip, an 18-mile stretch of remote beaches in Olympic National Park. This preceded a Memorial Day weekend trip along that beautiful line of seacoast. At the April Executive Council meeting, chaired by President Clint Harrington, Betty Parker moved and John Helmer seconded a move to appoint a special committee to study the possibility of owning a building as a Mazama center. Two ladies passed away. Beatrice Young who joined The Mazamas in the 1890s and Mabel Phillips, who joined in 1914.
The Mazamas moved to a new location, The Pacific Building between 5th And 6th Avenues on Yamhill Street. “These rooms are keen,” said so many members as the entered penthouse studios 7 and 7. These rooms, standing alone on the flat buiding room, offered views of the Willamette River and the West Hills. An elevator ran to the 10th floor, and a stairway led to the roof. A large roof court around the studios gave space for outdoor meetings or chatting with friends. A 30 ft. x36 ft. main room gave space for meetings, and there was a library and a music room. An open house and welcoming program for members and guests began at 8 p.m., Friday, May 7,1926. A replica of a Mazama campfire program was held by Boyd Williams. He had been president in 1920-1921 and was famed as a campfire leader. Entertainment included songs, readings by Christine Morgan and Verne Ketchum, and a minstral quartet. Saturday morning, the reception committee started hospitality at 10 a.m. and ran until midnight. There were violin solos by Elenore Neilan, Bernice Priest, and Patsy Neilan. The Lota Stone Whistlin Quartet sang several numbers. All that music flourished with piano accompanyment by Elenore Neilan, Louise Webber, and Mary Williamson. A lot of chuckles brough joy to the visiters as they got off the elevator and got a “summit” ribbon before taking the stairs to the penthouse. Clara A. Nelson chaired the house-warming. Others were Merle Moore, publicity; Martha Landis, decorating; Nelle Heizer, refreshments; Everett Philpoe, photo exhibits; Hariett Monroe, charter members; Boyd Williams, entertainment; E.T. Valiant, information; Martha Nilsson, reception
Is ICS For You? by Robin Wilcox, ICS Coordinator 2016-17
H
ave you been climbing for a while, learned a lot from your friends, but know it’s time to dial in your technical skills? Have you found yourself in technical terrain, realized you’re in over your head, and not known what to do? Have you done a lot of rock climbing, but are eager to learn how to translate those skills into an alpine environment? Did you graduate from BCEP, climb a lot, and find yourself eager for more? If the above describe you, it’s time to take your climbing education to the next level.
The goal of the Intermediate Climbing School (ICS) is to provide a training program to educate climbers in a wide range of best practices for climbing rock and snow. The course is intensive and challenging, but also fun and a rewarding learning experience. You will see a significant advance in your climbing skills in a relatively short period of time. You will have an opportunity to learn with and from a group of 40+ fellow students, many of whom will become lifetime climbing partners. The class is designed for climbers with solid basic climbing skills, and some outdoor experience, who are ready to advance to the next level of technical climbing. The ICS curriculum picks up where BCEP left off—but it is open to any qualified climber, regardless of whether or not you are a BCEP graduate. Clockwise, from top: Smith Rock State Park. Photo: Brian Thackeray. Cyndy Rutto at rock practice. Photo Jonathan Severdia. Snow session fun. Photo: Jonathan Severdia. 18 MAZAMAS
ICS is a challenge both in terms of scale and class content. The course is comprehensive and covers a large number of technical skills including: ▶▶ Advanced belay and rappelling techniques ▶▶ Movement on rock and snow ▶▶ Anchors for both rock and snow ▶▶ Self-rescue techniques ▶▶ Mountaineering first aid and accident management ▶▶ Leadership ▶▶ Navigation ▶▶ Avalanche awareness ▶▶ Single and multi-pitch climbing ▶▶ High angle snow technique ▶▶ And more Most of the course is spent developing these skills in a hands-on environment with over two dozen lectures and field sessions spread across approximately 9-months. Students work with experienced
instructors in a safety-conscious, and supportive environment. You will leave the class with the skills you need to become an independent mountaineer, the basics of climb leadership and preparation, critical thinking and self-awareness in an alpine environment, and as the leaders of the next generation of Mazamas climbers. As the coordinator, I am committed
to providing a supportive learning environment that accommodates students of different backgrounds, and experience levels. If you are interested in learning more, come to ICS Information Night at the MMC, June 27 at 7pm. You will meet the class team, many instructors, and former students eager to share their experiences
about the class. We will demonstrate course skills, allow time to meet future classmates, and provide pizza. Please contact me ics@mazamas. org with questions. More information about the course can be found on the Intermediate Climbing School class webpage on the Mazamas website.
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About This Series This is the third installment of the Bulletin’s occasional series on recreating in the backcountry with dogs. Independence Day is just a month away, bringing with it the snap-bang-booms of fireworks. This creates challenges for the noiseaverse canines among us, and their humans. Some people give their dogs sedatives to keep them calm during the Fourth of July. Longtime Mazama member Matt Carter gives his beloved Golden Retriever, Lily, a backpack. Here he recounts one of his favorite Fourth of July Adventures with Lily.
Above: Lily on guard duty during camp setup. Right: Pack or no pack, retrievers cannot resist the siren song of water. Photos: Matt Carter.
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When Fireworks on the Fourth Just Won’t Do Just an hour east of Portland, man and dog find peace and quiet on the noisiest nights of the year by Matt Carter
W
hen the neighborhood fireworks begin each July, my dog Lily becomes an inconsolable mess of panting, pacing, whining, and shaking. In recent years I have used this as justification to get out of town and into the mountains with her. In 2014, the Fourth fell on a Friday. The weather forecast was unusual, as it did not include rain, making it a perfect weekend for a backpack. I checked with Lily to see if she was available. She cleared her schedule for me and was ready to go in under a second. It took me a bit longer to load our packs. Our plan was to hike up Tanner Butte Trail to the Tanner-Eagle cutoff, down Eagle Creek to the Wahtum Lake Trail, around the lake past Chinidere Mountain to Benson Plateau, and out Ruckel Creek. We encountered our first hikers as the trail levels out then grades gently up Tanner Ridge: two young men and their freshly groomed Collie. They were trying without success to coach their pup to jump a log crossing the trial. Without a pause, Lily walked up to the log next to the Collie and
hopped over. “This is how it is done newbie,” she wagged. The Collie watched and shortly thereafter hopped the log. This young team was keen to get in front of us, most likely to secure what would surely be the last spot at Dublin Lake on such a beautiful weekend. I picked up the pace to no avail. Youth won out and they arrived at Dublin Lake minutes before we did. I tossed some sticks into the lake for Lily to retrieve and then hiked on. We would not see another person that day. Shortly after the lake junction the trail picks up an abandoned road. Along the road we encountered two large patches of cut bear grass arranged to make beds. Not aware of any forest critter that cuts bear grass to form a bed, I was allowed to speculate on the cause as either Bigfoot or space aliens.
Lily’s nose showed no interest in the piles of vegetation, so we moved on. When Lily and I arrived at Tanner Springs Campground, we were amazed to find ourselves alone on such a beautiful weekend in the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness, which lies barely an hour east of Portland. We set up camp along the stream and prepared for the evening. Lily sleeps at the tent door with just the bug screen. From there she can monitor the olfactory action of the night forest as I drift off to sleep. The next morning, we encountered a few Boy Scouts and their leader, who reported an arduous adventure up from Big Cedar Springs that included losing the trail many times and being trapped in thicket. They looked beat. Lily wasted no time putting their unoccupied hands to use. This is a wellpracticed routine for her. She slowly moves into position alongside of a hiker and places her head into the hiker’s unoccupied hand. Without being much aware of what they are doing, they begin petting her. And if they stop, her head presses gently against their leg and the petting resumes. In the early days of hiking with Lily, I would try to stop her or at least alert the person that they were petting a dog without knowing it. More recently, I’ve just let it happen. When they depart from our trailside conversation, most are unaware they spent the last minute or so petting a dog. I put Lily in the lead whenever a trail goes faint. She has the advantage of being able to follow scent beacons and can tell the difference between lost and not-lost scents. We are a well-integrated team. Thanks to her, we had no difficulty passing the section described by the scouting group as nearly impassable. Once past Big Cedar Springs the trail improved and we found our first muddy tarn. Like a magnet, Lily is drawn to water features, and in she went, despite having been trained not to do so while wearing a
pack. What emerged from the muck was a half white, half black dog and a pack filled with goo. As we approached the west fork of Eagle Creek she began her water happy dance. Leading out and turning her head frequently, “Can I?!! Can I?!!” her eyes asked. The siren call of Eagle Creek again defeated her discipline; in she went, pack and all. On the plus side she and her pack cleaned up nicely. Some time later we meet a young woman coming out from Wahtum Lake. Lily moved into position to receive pets. After the young
woman reported that everyone out hiking that day is at Wahtum Lake, I told Lily to knock it off. The young woman pulled her hand away quickly, surprised to realize that she had been petting a dog. Before she departed, she called Lily adorable. True to the young woman’s report, Wahtum Lake was packed with tents in every available space. Lily retrieved some sticks for me from the lake. On the move again, we headed past Chinidere Mountain toward Benson Plateau. Near Camp Smoky, we encountered a lone hiker. While Lily was working him, he reported a large group ahead of us was headed to the Plateau to camp. Again, the race was on. There are several trails in the Plateau. We took the shortest to Hunters Camp and turned up the wick. Arriving at Hunters Camp, we found ourselves alone again. Lily settles into camp life quickly, taking a position where she can comfortably track my progress setting up camp. Her keen sense of smell allows her to
monitor me with her eyes closed. The next day we began the hike out down Ruckel Creek. Over the years Lily has day-hiked all the trails we covered on this Fourth-of-July excursion. As we started to head down she stopped frequently to bark and stare at me. The message was clear: “This trail leads to the car. No, this can’t end!” Our last encounter was with a young couple. They were headed up Ruckel Creek just past the Indian pits. The young man pulled out a map and began to tell me where on the map we are (not even close), and asked how much further to Cascade Locks. They had taken the alternate route on the Pacific Crest Trail down Eagle Creek, and rather than walk the Old Highway to Cascade Locks, they were headed back up Ruckel Creek. I advised him that Ruckel Creek via Benson and the PCT to Cascade Locks was a very long way. He assured me I was wrong and they pressed on. Lily had scored pets with the young woman. Near the road they passed us up, retreating without a word. We returned to a quiet Portland neighborhood. A tired dog is a good dog.
Author Bio: Matt Carter has been a Mazama member for 22 years, as well as a Climb Leader, BCEP Leader, Advanced Rock leader and has served on many committees and Executive Council. Lily, (aka The Lovely Miss Lily to her climber friends), is a nine-year-old Golden Retriever who can be found with Matt most weekends on local trail and off trail adventures. She is an accomplished mountain dog comfortable in pack and harness.
JUNE 2016 21
What’s Up in the Skies this June?
A little diversion for long night climbs. by Darrin Gunkel
C
limbing Mt Hood in the middle of the night, on the long slog up the Palmer snowfield, maybe the last thing you want to do is look up. It can be disheartening and perhaps it's easier to keep your head down and just power on. But if you stop for a few minutes, turn off your headlamp and look up, you’ll be rewarded. On a moonless night it may seem like you’re seeing a million stars. In reality, under the best conditions, you can count about 3,000. This gives you an idea of how big a number 3,000 actually is: in a sense, you’re looking at a graphic representation of the number of feet from Timberline to Triangle Moraine, a little more than half your climb. The stars are always good from high up on a mountain in the middle of the night, but Hood climbers this season get a bonus: a bright grouping of a star and two planets embedded in the brightest part of the Milky Way. The Milky Way splits the eastern sky from north to south this time of year; it also climbs higher in the sky through the night. Follow its arc down to the southern horizon. You’re looking towards the center of our galaxy. Twenty-six thousand light years in that direction lurks a black hole 4 million times heavier than our sun. Our sun is a thousand times heavier than everything else in our solar system combined; all the planets, asteroids, comets, dwarf planets, everything on earth—Mt Hood, you, your pack—all add up to 0.1 percent of the stuff in our very immediate celestial neighborhood. Imagine
... stop for a few minutes, turn off your headlamp and look up, you’ll be rewarded.
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fighting the gravity of our planet as you ascend. Now multiply that gravity by a thousand and then another 4 million. That’s the gravity of the super-sized black hole at the center of our galaxy. Enough cosmology. On the right side of the widest, brightest part of the Milky Way, you’ll notice a triangle of three nearly equally bright points, brighter than anything else in that part of the sky. The top two (marking the triangle’s long side) are planets: Saturn to the left, Mars to the right. The point at the bottom is Antares, the star at the heart of the constellation Scorpius. Around 1 a.m. this grouping will be two fist widths above the horizon due south. Mars is the second smallest planet, but it shines bright because it’s close, in the astronomical sense, to Earth this season—about 47 million miles. It’s also home to the largest volcano—largest mountain, period—in the solar system: Olympus Mons. A much larger cousin of earthly shield volcanoes like those in Hawaii, Olympus Mons is as wide as Arizona and 88,500 feet tall. Talk about a slog!
Saturn, being a giant ball of hydrogen and helium, is the wrong place to look for mountains. The Saturn system is a different story. The ringed planet has 62 moons, 52 of which are not much more than big hunks of ice. Of the remaining ten, the smallest has proportionally one of the largest peaks in the solar system. The central mountain of Mimas’ Herschel crater is 19,500 feet high. Tall, but not that impressive? Consider that the little world is only 250 miles across; scale it up to the size of earth and Herschel’s peak would stand 629,000 feet (119 miles) high. Done with extremes? Not quite. Antares, ( from the Greek Ant-Ares or “equal to Mars”) is a red supergiant star. It’s over 600 million miles across. Replace our sun with Antares and it would fill the solar system two thirds of the way to Jupiter. Antares weighs in at 15 times the mass of our sun. A star this size lives only a few million years (“only” compared to our sun, which will be around 10 billion years) before exploding as a supernova. It’s size and red color indicate it’s near the end of its life, and could go any time. Keep an eye on Antares!
Clockwise, from left: The forest silhouettes our home galaxy, the Milky Way. (stock photo). Inset: Saturn’s Moon Mimas and Herschel Crater. The central peak is nearly twice the size as Mt. Hood. Photo courtesy NASA. Saturn, Antares, Mars finder—The night sky, looking south at 1:30 a.m. June 1.
Author Bio: Darrin Gunkel has been hiking and climbing in the Pacific Northwest for 25 years. He’s been a Mazama since 2012. After a long day beating the bushes for writing and editing gigs, he enjoys unwinding with weighty tomes that explain the universe.
JUNE 2016 23
MAZAMA FAMILIES Parent ground anchor (Derek Chinn) looks on to son Caleb belaying a fellow classmate at Student Wall. Photo: Rich Hunter
FM101 Rocks!
Smith Rock Graduation Trip Recap by Rich Hunter
C
hecking my email leading up the trip, I was more anxious than usual. Despite the summer weather that’s been way ahead of schedule this year, the weekend forecast called for a turn—rain and thunderstorms were on the way. Not fair! Having circled this date months ago for the FM101 graduation trip to Smith Rock, I dreaded seeing a cancellation email. But it never came! Instead, my inbox pinged with optimistic emails about how the Families group would make the most of the weekend with our fellow classmates, instructors and leaders, no matter what the weather brought. As I loaded the last of my daughters’ stuffed bobcats, bears and other animal friends into the car next to our climbing helmets, harnesses and rock shoes, I was literally vibrating with excitement to meet up at Smith and celebrate with the students while assisting in a crag leader capacity. More than 40 students successfully completed the Families Mountaineering
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101 class this year, thanks to the colossal efforts of class leaders, Justin Rotherham and Craig Martin, and a bevy of enthusiastic assistants. Over the past 9 months, the class provided a positive, supportive learning experience that emboldened many of the students to exceed their wildest expectations for climbing and outdoor adventure. This class is a pathway to build the future leaders of the Mazamas. Assembling in the North Point parking lot Saturday morning, it was clear how excited they were, and how much this trip meant to them as a capstone for all their hard work in the class. We also saw a major progression of the students’ awareness and preparation. Everyone showed up ready to go, signed in, grabbed a rope and joined their group. I, too, have traversed over some challenging and fun territory since my daughter’s FM101 graduation a year ago. I joined the Families Committee, assisted with FM101 again and enrolled in the new Crag Leader training and Mountaineering First Aid. This Smith trip is a perfect example of why Crag Leader training was created—to build the Families leadership corps from the inside, we need a stepping stone from FM101 into intermediate climbing, a way to provide aspiring assistants with the skills and
training needed to safely lead activities that are now in high demand from almost 100 recent graduates of FM101. This Crag Leader training has empowered a half dozen new leaders for sport climbing and top roping activities. Arriving at the Dihedrals on Sunday morning, I was thrilled to lead climb, and set sport anchors and top ropes for our stalwart group of families who wanted to climb even through the drizzle. So, why didn’t we cancel, even though the weather was iffy? AR had already called off their weekend at Smith—we would have been in good company if we canceled. Exploring a new place, climbing different types of rock routes, and putting our new skills to work in a real life climb were major reasons. Looking deeper, the real reason we powered through the bad weather is the bond we have with each other. The amazing relationships we have formed, and the fun times we would have missed if we let the clouds rain on our parade. Not to mention the chance to make a campfire under a rain tarp that was bigger than my house. Clearly, the families program inspires our inner light to shine, and together, we blaze on to climb new heights. Congratulations FM 101 and Crag Leader graduates!
RESEARCH GRANTS 2016
KIDS' CORNER
This year, there were 16 graduate student proposals and 5 standard proposals received. Four student proposals and 3 standard proposals were selected for funding.
by Tygan Doll
M
y name is
Tygan. I am nine Tygan Doll at Smith Rock years old and in the third grade. This year I took the Family Mountaineering 101 class with my dad. Our last weekend with the class was a trip to Smith Rock, which is in the desert. It was supposed to be sunny, but it wasn’t. The first morning WAS sunny, and we hiked to Student Wall along the Crooked River. I tried a couple of different routes, but I was best at Kindergarten Crack. I saw an interesting lizard and took a bunch of pictures of it with my dad’s phone. At noon it got colder, and then the thunderstorms came and we had to rush back to the parking lot. We camped by Haystack Reservoir for the night. The kids ran around and played lots of games like capture the flag, cops and robbers, hide and seek, and one unique game that involved cow pies and a dead fish. The next day it was raining when we woke up, but we got geared to go climbing anyway. We went to a beautiful place called the Dihedrals. I tried to climb a route that I thought was really hard, especially because it was wet. It did not stop raining the whole time, and around noon Craig and Justin said it was time to head back to the cars. I had a lot of fun playing with all the other kids and talking to them while we were hiking. I hope I get to see them again at other Mazama Family outings. Next year my dad is going to volunteer to be an assistant for the class. I might want to be one too when my little sisters are old enough to take the class.
STUDENT PROPOSALS FUNDED: ▶▶ S01: $2,000. The effect of slope—scale spatial variability of slab characteristics on crack propagation, Chris Bilbrey, Snow and Avalanche Laboratory, Department of Earth Sciences, Montana State University. ▶▶ S05: $1,950. Homecoming hunger: Quantifying the resource requirements of wolves recolonizing the Pacific Northwest, Caleb M. Bryce, UCSC Long Marine Lab/Center for Ocean Health, University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC). ▶▶ S13: $1,560. Heavy metal pollution legacy from smelters in Northeast Washington and British Columbia lake sediments, Beth Rutila, Oregon State University, College of Earth Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences. ▶▶ S16: $2,000. Analysis of Proglacial Headwater Streams on Mount Rainer, Kristin Wilmes, The Evergreen State College: Graduate Studies on the Environment STANDARD PROPOSALS FUNDED: ▶▶ SG01: $3,500. Associations between Specific Human Gene Polymorphisms and Susceptibility to Acute Mountain Sickness, Paige J. Baugher, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Pacific University. ▶▶ SG02: $3,500. The Mount Rainier Fumarole Cave Project, Expedition Dates: July 28–Aug. 9, 2016, Eddy Cartaya, National Speleological Society/Oregon High Desert Grotto. ▶▶ SG05: $3,500. Beaver dams as tools for protecting amphibians from climate change and introduced trout at high elevations, Dr. John M. Romansic, Department of Integrative Biology, Oregon State University.
Sunny Freeman sunnyfreeman@windermere.com SunnyFreemanHomes.com twitter.com/sfreemanhomes
Your Mazama Realtor JUNE 2016 25
MAZAMA LODGE
YOUR HOME ON THE MOUNTAIN SUMMER HOURS Mazama Lodge will begin operating on summer hours starting Thursday, June 16 through Monday, August 29. During this time the lodge is open seven days a week and we’ll be serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. During the month of June we are booked for exclusive use events on June 3, 4, 11, 17, and 18. The rest of the month you are welcome to stop by for a meal, lodging, or just to say “hello”. LOST LAKE CHUCK WAGON WEEKEND The weekend of July 23 and 24 Mazama Lodge will be hosting Welcome new Mazama member, Jim Kinope. our annual Lost Lake Chuck Wagon with hike Leader Rick Amodeo. We still have spots available for this event. As in years past, we feature camp fire cuisine throughout your hike. We’ll provide the transportation and all your meals, and your camping equipment is shuttled for you—you just need to hike with your daypack. The 2-day trip is 22 miles from Timberline Lodge to Lost Lake. Last year when we arrived at Lost Lake members of the hike party enjoyed a refreshing swim followed by a cold beverage at the Lost Lake General Store. A great way to end the weekend. IT'S NEVER TOO LATE During BCEP we introduce about two hundred members to the Mazama Lodge. For many new members this is their first time to the lodge. But for new member Jim Kinope this was is fourth visit to the lodge over the past 43 years but his first time as a member. He first visited the lodge in 1973 with a friend and thought “I should join the Mazamas.” Ten years later he returned in then came back again in 1999, each time thinking “I should join the Mazmas.” Finally, recently retired with the kids grown he enrolled in BCEP and became a Mazama member. Welcome Jim! CLASSICAL MUSIC CONCERT SERIES Tuesday August 16 and 23. Dinner at 5:30 p.m.; concert at 6:30 p.m. Concerts are 45 minutes. Ticket prices are $25 and include dinner. Tickets available online or by calling the lodge. Tuesday, Aug. 16: New Mazama Member Richard Trostel will perform some original works along with accompanist. Richard is a member of the Juneau Symphony and when time allows a weekend ski instructor at Timberline. Tuesday, Aug. 23: The Four Squirrel, a string quartet comprised of members from the Portland Youth Symphony are Cammie Lee (violin), Randy Zhang (viola), Alexander Wilde (cello), and Hanna Weinstein (violin). Hanna’s father and grandparents all joined the Mazamas in 1975.
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UPCOMING SUNDAY EVENING PROGRAMS AT THE LODGE! The first Sunday of every month, May– September, the lodge will host great guest speakers. Dinner will be served at 5 p.m. and the 1 hour program begins at 6 p.m. Event is free; dinner available for $13.25.
June 5: The Salmonberry Trail— Linking the Valley to the Coast The Salmonberry Trail is the name for the railsto-trails project between Banks and Tillamook along the old Salmonberry Railroad. Mike Cafferata, District Forester for the Forest Grove District of the Oregon Department of Forestry though which a portion of the railroad passes, will provide photos of the project, a current status report, and plans for the future of this exciting project.
July 3: Behind the Emerald Curtain “Behind the Emerald Curtain” is the latest documentary produced by Pacific Rivers, and created by Shane Anderson. We will screen the video and then have a conversation with Kalei Augustine and other staff and guests from Pacific Rivers.
August 7: Hiking Norway’s Western Fjordland Join outing leader Eric Hoem and experience the hiking trails, climb route, and trekking path that members of his Mazama outing followed in the fjordlands of western Norway.
September 4: History of the Mount Hood National Forest and its Lookouts Local author Cheryl Hill will highlight several interesting stories from the forest’s past and talk about the history of its lookouts. She will also talk about her favorite lookout hikes and give you a few tips for staying in a lookout cabin.
AYM ADVENTUROUS YOUNG MAZAMAS OFFERS ACTIVITIES TARGETED TO THOSE IN THEIR 20S & 30S AND ANYONE YOUNG AT HEART. Our Adventurous Young hike leaders have been pretty busy lately with life, BCEP, and publishing, but we have exciting trips coming up just in time for spring. If you’re new to the group, or want to hang out without a long car ride, don’t forget our monthly roving pub nights, the third Monday of the month, 6:30 p.m. until it ends. Check out our webbage for details on all of our activities: tinyurl.com/ MazamasAYM. LOOK OUT FOR Photos from Matt Reeder’s trip to Criterion Ranch. This hike was a photographer’s special (tripods were encouraged). Hopefully he’ll snag a good shot for his annual calendar. JUNE 11-12: SUMMER WEEKEND AT NESIKA LODGE WITH INTRO TO BACKPACKING WORKSHOP Come kick off the summer with AYM and the Trails Club of Oregon (TCO) at the beautiful Nesika Lodge, located between Multnomah Falls and Larch Mountain in the Gorge. At this summer weekend retreat at the lodge, Reena and several TCO members will be hosting an “Introduction to Backpacking” workshop and be available to answer any questions you may have about planning your own trip. You will have the option to stay in dorm-style bunks or tent camp. Showers available on this “glamping” retreat. A detail prospectus will be sent to participants closer to the trip date. Cost: $20 members/$30 nonmembers. Leader: Reena Clements SAVE THE DATES FOR: ▶▶ Crater Lake/Rogue River car camping. A little bird has informed us that Anna has campsites in southern Oregon, just in time for the snow to melt and the adventuring to be at its peak. Weekend of July 8. ▶▶ And still further ahead, the annual AYM Labor Day Trip this year will be in the North Cascades. Keep an eye on the calendar, as this will likely fill up quicker than Karl can bike across Portland. These, of course, are just a sample of the incredible adventures AYM will be leading this summer. We post hikes/ rambles/camping trips on both the AYM webpage and the AYM Meetup page. LOOKING FOR LEADERS Are you a current Mazama member? Are you young of heart or soul? Do you have ideas for hikes or camping trips that you don’t see on our calendar? WE WANT YOU! Come to one of our committee meetings, held the last Monday of the month, at 6:30 p.m. at the MMC to find out more, or to ask any questions you may have. We discuss upcoming plans and usually ajorn for a cold adult beverage afterwards.
CISM OFFERS COURSE ON PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID by Marina Wynton On May 5, the Mazama Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Committee offered a short course on Psychological First Aid. The course was taught by Tim Dietz, a retired behavioral health specialist and fire services captain for a metropolitan Oregon fire district. Tim is currently in private practice as a licensed professional counselor and an internationally recognized speaker on crisis, grief, and staying happy and healthy for emergency services workers. Tim’s presentation discussed the causes of stress, personality type that is involved in high stress activities, physiological aspects of stress (how stress plays out in the body and mind), signs of stress, preventative care in order to build resiliency, and how to take care of self and others after an incident. SIGNS OF EXCESSIVE STRESS ARE NORMAL SIGNS OF STRESS AND ARE PREDICTABLE IN VIRTUALLY EVERYONE WHO IS PUSHED BEYOND THEIR LEVEL TO TOLERATE. ▶▶ Fatigue, rapid heartbeat, headaches, stomach aches, muscle tension, feeling exhausted ▶▶ Memory loss, forgetfulness, reduced ability to make decisions, mistakes in calculation ▶▶ Anxiety/fear, irritability, feeling helpless, grief, crying, withdrawal ▶▶ Anger, fear, isolating, changes in eating habits, trouble sleeping Generally, any change in what was normal for you prior to the event can be considered as a normal sign of excessive stress. WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT STRESS: ▶▶ Talk about it as soon as possible. Stress is normal reaction to an abnormal event. Normalize your experience by talking with your team mates, peers, friends and family. ▶▶ Take responsibility for doing something about it yourself. Don’t blame others. ▶▶ Stay physically active. ▶▶ Maintain good nutrition. ▶▶ Avoid alcohol or other drugs as a way to cope with stress.
Don’t be afraid to seek professional or peer support. Symptoms should be decreasing after about three weeks. If they are not, or are getting worse, seek additional help. Often the longer you wait to do something about the stress, the worse it can get and the longer it takes to get recover. The CISM team is here to help with managing trauma and stress for groups and individuals. Contact the Mazama office for a referral to the committee. Psychological First Aid will be offered twice a year as part of educational opportunities available at the Mazamas. The next course will be this fall, date to be determined.
JUNE 2016 27
SUCCESSFUL CLIMBERS April 30, Mt. Hood, Pearly Gates. Leader: Scott Osbron, Asst: Rico Micallef. Chad Atwood, Kyle Branderhorst, Arielle Cooke, Eric Riser, Malia Tam Sing, Alexander Wiley May 1, Mt. St. Helens, Swift Creek. Leader: Steve Warner, Asst: Rae Lantsberger. Sasha Burchuk, Prajwal Mohan, Paul Munn, Bryan Oates, Alexandra Ross, Ashley Driscoll, Jennifer Mattson, Matt Waddell May 3, Mount St. Helens, Swift Creek. Leader: Shirley Welch, Asst: Marty Scott. Charles Hanlon, Duncan Hart, Andrew Knight, Orly Stampfer, Amanda Virbitsky, Taylor Hatmaker May 6, Mount St. Helens, Worm Flows. Leader: Doug Wilson, Asst: Stan Meeuwsen. Elly Branch, David J. Church, R. Conner Dowling, Tarika Hanawalt May 6, Mt. Hood, South Side. Leader: Gary Bishop, Asst: Darin Richardson. Jonathan Casanova, Madison Ford, Tom Miller, Trey Schutrumpf, John Kirkley, Rikki Seguin May 7, Mount St. Helens, Swift Creek, Worm Flows. Leader: George Shay, Asst: Rae Lantsberger. Aaron Bailey, Jennifer Cox, Eric Dattoli, Paula Miranda, Robert Straub, Rebecca Morris, Blair Puidokas, Steve Puidokas
May 7, Copper Mountain, Wagonwheel Lake. Leader: Andrew Bodien, Asst: Sanman Rokade. Ardel Frick, Kris Simbajon, Maggie Woodward May 7, Mt. Ellinor, SE Chute. Leader: Scott Osbron, Asst: Patrice Cook. Chad Atwood, Kyle Branderhorst, Kylie Coleman, Timothy Niedermeyer, Amanda Menneking, Stacey Reding, Erica Rothman, Malia Tam Sing, Joan Wallace May 7, Mt. Hood, Pearly Gates. Leader: Rico Micallef, Asst: Marc Milobonski. Patrick Aitchison, Chris Brox, Bryan Dawson, Denara Goble, Jessica Minifie, Kirk Rohrig, Max Rudolph, Chaitanya Sathe, Stacia Torborg May 8, Rooster Rock, South Face. Leader: Shirley Welch, Asst: Marty Scott. Scott Britell, Ann Brodie-Knope, Larry Buzan, Andrew Knight, Steven Loos, Michael Osmera, Adam Russell, Amanda Virbitsky May 10, Mt. St. Helens, Swift Creek. Leader: Steve Warner, Asst: Justin Colquhoun. Aaron Molstad, Jerome Poncet, Martin Rio, Kris Simbajon, Katrin Silvius May 10, Mt. Hood, Pearly Gates. Leader: Tim Scott, Asst: Nick Maslen. Danielle Allen, Dana Beck, Abby Coles, Kristen Frank, Bonnie Gardner, Melinda Hugo, Hannah Payton, Rachel Sunstrom, Jessica Witt
WELCOME NEW MAZAMAS! Rick Atherton—South Sister Sasha Burchuk—Middle Sister Seth Dietz—Middle Sister Michael Duda—Mt. Shasta Christopher Evola—Mt. Hood Andreana Gentil—Mt. St. Helens Kimiko Gibson—Mt. St. Helens Cole Johnson—Mt. St. Helens Joe Kaufman—Mt. St. Helens April Larivee—Mt. Adams Shannon Leahy—Mt. St. Helens Jody Longo—Mt. St. Helens Crockett Marr—Mt. Hood Siena Marr—Glacier Peak Stephan Nelson—Mt. Hood Phil Newman—South Sister
28 New
Andrew Phillips—Mt. Hood Andrew Pierson—Mt. Rainier Laura Pierson—Mt. Rainier Jennifer Plitzko—Mt. Hood Randi Reed—Mt. St. Helens Andrew Rose-Innes—Mt. Hood Erica Rothman—South Sister Rowan Shatzer—South Sister Rachel Sunstrom—Mt. Adams Timothy Svedin—Mt. Hood Joshua Van Otterloo—Mt. Stuart Elisa Wirkala—Mt. Hood
12 Reinstated Reinstatements: Kathleen Adams (1996), Craig Anderson (1965), Verna Burden (2003), Kevin Currie (1975), Steve Doucette (2012), Gretchen Mollers (2014), Joseph Morse (2015), Ashley Nelson (2015), Patrick Philpott (1980), Elizabeth Puskar (2013), John Schmitt (1988), Mary Frances Taunton (2009) 1 Deceased
Deceased: John McGilvra (2000)
April Total Membership
3,462 2016 3,356 2015
OBITUARIES
JUNE W. HACKET | 1924–2015
When June W. Hackett married mountaineer, Bill Hackett in 1989, she began a life of adventure and intellectual stimulation, the likes she had never experienced while growing up in rural Montana. She was sixty-five when she accompanied Bill on the his final ascent of Mt. Hood. Then, as they continued to live through their Golden Years, Bill exposed June to the world of exploration and the men and women who were pioneers in their given field. At the Explorers Club in New York City one night, June was thrilled to have dinner with American astronauts from both the Apollo and Gemini programs. She laughed beside Buzz Aldrin as a cub bear ran feverishly through the dinner hall. She played cards with Jim Lovell of Apollo 13. As her husband helped pioneer the Seven Summits dream—the attainment of the highest summit on each of the world's seven continents—June entertained his successors in their West Hills home. The late Dick Bass of Dallas, Texas, who was first to complete the goal, shared drinks and laughter with Bill and June on occasion. Pat Morrow of Alberta, who helped popularize the mountaineering goal, was likewise a guest of honor in the Hackett home.
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JOHN MCGILVRA | SEPT. 14, 1952–APRIL 21, 2016 John McGilvra joined the Mazamas in 2000 and took the Basic Climbing Education Program in 2001. You could frequently find John leading new hikers up Silver Star Mountain in Washington as it was one of his favorite hikes (he had at least 55 Silver Star summits!). In one year, he even summitted Mt. St. Helens 50+ to celebrate his age. In addition to Silver Star and Mt. St. Helens, he had 60+ trips up Mt. Defiance, 50+ summits of Mount St. Helens, 13 summits of Mt. Hood, and many others. John was a high pointer—working to summit the highest peaks in all 50 states—and had come within 4 or 5 summits of completion (he was missing Alaska, Washington, Montana, Wyoming, and Hawaii). When Mazama member Barbara Bond was researching her “75 Scrambles in Oregon” guide, John accompanied her on at least 20 peaks.
Mazama Mountain Photography Workshop Mt. Hood, Smith Rock & the Painted Hills
Photos are from Lily Frey, Brian Powell, David Hamilton, Bianca Pyko and Matthew Gillette.
The workshop was targeted for beginners. It started with a three hour classroom session covering the basic photography skills, composition guidelines and tips for outdoor photography. For the weekend sessions the group spent time on Mt.Hood, Smith Rock and Painted Hills unit of John Day Fossil Beds which gave the students chance to photographing variety of landscapes under different conditions. The group camped overnight at Climber Bivouac at Smith Rock State Park. An overcast with occasional rain brought some challenges but overall the group stayed pretty motivated and took lots of photos. The weekend session was followed by another three hour long class session for photo critique of pictures taken during the workshop and discussion on post processing techniques.
JUNE 2016 29
Hiking the
Oregon Coast by Joe Whittington
W
e owned a beach house in Pacific City for 25 years (1989 to 2014), but I did not become aware of the Oregon Coast Trail until 2008 when four couples from Dallas, Texas, contacted me about hiking the OCT. I offered hiking adventures with various levels of support, through my company Oregon Peak Adventures. The Texans settled on my scouting the route, preparing an itinerary, and making all the lodging and transportation reservations. Starting at the South Jetty of the Columbia River, I scouted shuttle entry and exit points down to Newport over two full days, and wrote-up a detailed hike plan. For an obsessive pursuer of lists of peaks and trails, this was dangerous stuff. I had traveled the Pacific City area section many times, but that was about it; so yeah, I was going to do the Oregon Coast Trail. 30 MAZAMAS
Trail
That trip initiated the quest that as of summer of 2015, has taken me from the South Jetty of the Columbia River to Florence. Since the coast is linear, the primary challenge is connecting the beginning and end points. I have accomplished this by various means: leaving a vehicle at the end and riding my bicycle to the beginning, getting family or friends to drop me off at the beginning and hiking to my car, hiking with friends and taking multiple vehicles, leading Trail Trips with multiple drivers, and, organizing week-long outings. There have even been a few boat crossings. The origins of the Oregon Coast Trail began in 1913 when Governor Oswald West designated Oregon’s beaches as public highways. In 1967, Governor Tom McCall signed the Oregon Beach Bill, which further expanded public access, and in 1975 the Oregon Transportation Commission officially opened the first segment of the OCT from the Columbia to Tillamook Bay. The Oregon Coast Trail is almost 400 miles long and consists of about 75 miles of actual trails (mostly over and through headlands), with 50 miles of highway walking and the remaining miles walking on the beach. My approach has been to avoid walking on the paved roadways as much as possible by utilizing shuttles to stay on the trails and beaches. You can
do the entire trip in one continuous push, staying in motels or camping, or you can break it up. I’ve just done day trips. As the southern sections are too far to drive for just a day, I’m now leading Mazama Outings using an Oregon State Park as a car shuttle base camp and hiking 50 to 70-mile segments as a series of day trips over a week. This summer’s OCT Outing is the section between Florence and Bandon, August 8-14, based out of William Tugman State Park. The plan is to finish the final section to the California border next summer. OK, enough of that; you want to know how to hike the Oregon Coast Trail. The first challenge is determining where the trail segments actually are, as it is not always well marked. The trail will often, but not always, be marked with the OCT sign. Hiking the OCT has been made somewhat more straightforward this past year with the publication of Connie Soper’s book, Exploring the Oregon Coast Trail (Dragon Fly Press, 2015). She focuses exclusively on hiking the OCT and describes 40 segments, each of which can be done in one day. Another helpful book is Day Hiking the Oregon Coast, 2nd Ed., by Bonnie Henderson (The Mountaineers Books, 2015). She recently backpacked the entire OCT and this new edition has sidebars that specifically describe the OCT segments in proximity to each of the day
hikes. She also has an online blog— hikingtheoct.blogspot.com. Additionally, William Sullivan’s new 100 Hikes/Travel Guide Oregon Coast & Coast Range, 4th Ed. (Navillus Press, 2016) also has good information. The descriptions of the OCT are brief, but Sullivan offers detailed information and good map illustrations of the hiking areas. Check the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department at—oregon. gov/oprd/PARKS/Pages/OCT_ main.aspx—for downloadable maps and descriptions of the route. And finally, The National Coast Trail Association, coasttrails.org/, has more information and newsletters. The second challenge concerns logistics: getting there and determining how to connect the beginning and end points. Becoming a Trail Trips leader is one way to gather a group of hikers and their vehicles. Planning a car shuttle requires that you pinpoint your beginning and end points, and know precisely where to leave the beach or trail to head for the vehicle—it’s not always obvious. For more than one carload of hikers, leave the non-drivers at the beginning and drive the vehicles to the end point. Leave all the vehicles except one which you drive back to the beginning with all the drivers. Drive back to retrieve that vehicle after the hike is finished.
The third challenge is tracking the tides. Frantically scrambling up rip-rap, running or swimming for your life, or wading waist-deep in higher streams are all best avoided. (Don’t ask.) Tide tables are available at coastal businesses and online. Plan your travel to coincide with the lowest tide for going around a point or crossing a stream. You may also consider changing your direction of travel to have the wind at your back (not an option for a thru-hiker). Sometimes, it can be cold, windy, rainy, and hot on the same day, so carrying layers of clothing is a good idea. Also, be prepared with footwear to wade across the many streams you will encounter. The Oregon Coast offers all-season hiking alternatives, with a wide variety of terrain and scenery. Not everyone has a spectacular coast available nearby, and hiking is the only way to completely experience it. Now get out there and do it!
Clockwise, from left: Ann Ames, unidentified hiker, and Allie Duncan at Neahkahnie Mountain trailhead. Cape Kiwanda with sea stack. Photo: Joe Whittington. Looking north from Cape Meares. Photo: Joe Whittington. Sunset at Pacific City. Photo: Joe Whittington. Ecola Point area, north of Cannon Beach. Photo: Joe Whittington. JUNE 2016 31
Mazamas Backpack in
Wallowa Lakes Basin by Brett Nair
L
ast September twelve hikers, including several non-Mazamas, enjoyed three nights in one of the most beautiful places in the world—the Wallowa Lakes Basin region of the WallowaWhitman National Forest. Sadly, if you enjoy drama, the group enjoyed excellent accommodations, was well-prepared and enjoyed fantastic weather and beautiful views. Everyone survived and there were no injuries. Boring! (Not in this scenery!) In addition to being in the wilderness for three nights the trip included a Mazama first: a sanctioned summit of a mountain during a hike without a climb leader. This was made possible through an agreement between the Mazama Trail Trips Committee and the Mazama Climb Committee. This agreement stipulates that certain mountains can be led by a Mazama hike leader in good conditions. Our backpack included a summit of Eagle Cap from the established trail. By Mazamas standards the trip (September 8 - 13, 2015) was
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done in glamping style (camping with amenities). We spent the nights before and after the trip at Wallowa Lake State Park to meet and prepare and share gear before a modestly early and stress-free departure. From the park we began our adventure - hiking south along the west fork of the Wallowa River to Six-Mile Meadow, a beautiful open prairie-like setting. We rested there before taking on the nearly 3,000 feet of gain to Horseshoe Lake. We spent the night at the lake and camped in
large open campsites, largely having the lake to ourselves. Some of us enjoyed a star party before retreating back to our tents on the only near-freezing night. The next day we headed to Mirror Lake past many smaller lakes; we passed Lee, Craig, Unit, Lilly, Douglas, and tiny Sunshine before we found two beautiful camping areas at Mirror Lake. The mostly flat four-mile hike left us with plenty of time to eat lunch before hiking up Eagle Cap. We made sure to thank every Mazama
hike leader who ever farted on a summit for our chance to do the same on Eagle Cap. It was a hot steep 4.7-mile hike with 1700 feet of gain along a clearly established trail without packs, so most of us ran back down to our camps by the lake. Day three found us up and ready for our trip past beautiful Moccasin Lake to equally stunning but very different Glacier Lake. Moccasin is a narrow greenwater lake surrounded by tree-covered slopes with a cool and intimate feel to it. The trail actually bisects the lake before heading up and over a shoulder. Glacier is a large, open, blue-water lake in a vast granite desert. Some of us took time to explore Glacier before moving on to Frazier Lake for our final night of the backpack; others went to find Prospect Lake before rejoining the group at Frazier for a last dinner together on the trail. Our last day on the trail was an 11-mile descent back to Wallowa Lake and another night in the campground for congratulatory beers and dinner. Most of us had breakfast together before heading back to town during the day. No danger of falling asleep on the drive home for us! A few things to know about hiking in this area: A Northwest Forest Pass is required for nearly all trailheads in the area.
However, no pass is required for the parking area near the power station at the Wallowa Lake State Park Trailhead to the west fork of the Wallowa River. A special permit is required for hiking and camping in the area; it is, however, free. The permit is designed to inform and to enforce lake-area campground and hiking restrictions. Groups are limited to 12 on the trail and further limited to 6 in the campsites. Several times we saw rangers enforcing the regulations in a friendly and affable manner. Camping areas near the lakes are clearly identifiable but can be limited during the busy season in July and August. I would do this trip again in a heartbeat, but I would also like to explore other parts of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. I want to thank Joe Whittington, Barbara Schulz and Bob Breivogel for their trips to and information about the area, along with Ted Scheinman and Jodi Wacenske of the Portland Nordic Club for sharing the Wallowas with me in the winter. I’ve learned so much from all of the above, and others. I try to get to the Wallowas twice a year; I’ve skied, backpacked, day hiked, and bicycle-toured through it, each more than once. Haven’t been there? Your first visit to the Wallowa Mountains can be a life changer, like arriving at the Swiss Alps after an eight-hour drive.
Clockwise, from top: Group on the summit of Eagle Cap: From left: Michelle Bright, Dyanne Foster, Gary Riggs, Amad Doratoraj, Barbara Schulz, Rex Breunsbach, Lynne Ludeman, Ralph Glenn, Laura Schaeffer; top back, Lisa Hughes. Not pictured: Brett Nair, Dan Smith. Photo: Brett Nair. Glacier Lake, Eagle Cap Wilderness. Photo: Brett Nair. Brett Nair cooling off in Frazier Lake. Photo: Gary Riggs.
JUNE 2016 33
CLASSIC MAZAMAS FOR MEMBERS WITH 25 YEARS OR MORE OF MEMBERSHIP OR FOR THOSE WHO PREFER TO TRAVEL AT A MORE LEISURELY PACE
W
e lead a wide variety of year round activities including hikes, picnics, and cultural excursions. Share years of happy Mazama memories with our group. All ages are welcome to join the fun. (Formerly known as Old Timers.) CONTACTING THE CLASSICS If you wish to contact the Classics, you can call or email Chair Rose Marie Gilbert at 503-762-2357 or gilbertrosemarie@centurylink. net, or Executive Council liaison Kate Evans at 503-6356540, kateevans97@gmail.com, or classics@mazamas.org. LEADING EVENTS IN JULY If you are interested in leading an event next month, please contact Rose Marie Gilbert by June 12 so it can be included in the upcoming Bulletin. TRANSPORTATION PLAN Our east side transportation pick up point will be Gateway and on the west side it will be 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 new transportation coordinator Flora Huber at flobell17@ comcast.net or 503-658-5710.
34 MAZAMAS
JUNE 10: ANGEL’S REST WALK Enjoy a leisurely, stop-andsmell-the flowers walk to Angels Rest. 4.2 miles, 1,500 feet elevation gain. Meet at the MMC at 9 a.m. Leader: Kate Evans, kateevans97@gmail. com, 503-635-6540. JUNE 29: CLASSICS MEETING Come help plan our summer events. Interested Classics are always welcome to attend our meetings every other month on the last Monday of the month at 11 a.m. at the MMC. JULY 2: DICK AND JANE MILLER’S POTLUCK PICNIC You are invited to Dick and Jane Miller’s home for their annual potluck picnic. Plan to come this year and invite another Classic Mazama or significant other to share in potluck fashion: main dish, salad or dessert. Lemonade and water will be provided, but if you have a favorite beverage please bring it along. Plates and utensils will be provided. Plan to arrive at 12:30 p.m. Dick and Jane are at 17745 SW Cooper Mtn. Lane, Beaverton. Coming from the east, take Hwy. 26 to 217. Go south on 217 to the Scholls Ferry Rd. exit across from Washington Square. Take a right onto Scholls Ferry Road and go west to SW 175th Avenue. Turn right and go up the hill ¾ mile to Cooper Mtn. Lane on the left. This is on a curve with limited sight distance, so use caution making the left turn onto Cooper Mtn. Lane. Then follow
the Miller signs and orange traffic cones to the Miller driveway. If you have any questions about the picnic, call Dick or Jane at 503-590-3598. Mark your calendar! We’ll see you there. DONATE YOUR USED EQUIPMENT TO THE CLASSICS As a group effort, we will be gathering used equipment to be sold at next year’s Used Equipment Sale. The Classics will receive a share of the proceeds to benefit our budgeted activities. Dick Miller has offered to collect and store your donations until the sale. It is possible there are items in
your basement or closet that not only have monetary value, but have historic significance and should end up in the Mazama Museum archives. We’ll make sure your donated items are assessed by the archivists. A good time to start clearing out your gear is NOW, and you can bring all or part of what you’d like to donate to the July 2 picnic at the Millers. AUG. 27–SEPT. 2: CLASSIC HIKERS’ GETAWAY LONG BEACH PENINSULA For details see p. 23 in the January Bulletin or contact leader Ray Sheldon at rbshldn@ pacifier.com.
Adventure Awaits!
Oct. 2016
Everest Base Camp & Island Peak Climb Contact us for more details: donovan@embarkadventures.com
Mar. 2017
Southern Patagonia Trek
OUTINGS
ADVENTURE TRAVEL—FOREIGN & DOMESTIC
OREGON COAST HIKING AUGUST 8–14, 2016 Based out of William M. Tugman State Park, we will hike approximately 60 miles of the Oregon Coast Trail south from Florence to Bandon, using car shuttles to connect segments of the trail. Most of the hiking will be on the beach with traverses through the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. This is an interesting area with spectacular scenery. Participants are responsible for their own transportation, lodging/camping arrangements, and meals (you may attend for less than 7 days if desired). Outing cost will range from $95–$190 depending on the number of participants. A $150 deposit is required, with sign-up by July 15. Participants should make reservations ASAP if they are planning to stay at William M. Tugman SP. Outing leader is Joe Whittington, joewhittington@ gmail.com, 503-297-6344.
CRATER LAKE OUTING DATES: AUGUST 13–20, 2016 Full—Alternates Only Outing Leader: Richard Getgen
CLIMBING 14ER’S IN THE COLORADO SAN JUANS AUGUST 20–28, 2016 Full—Alternates Only Travel to the San Juan range
of southern Colorado to attempt five 14,000+ foot peaks (Handies, Redcloud/Sunshine, Uncompahgre, Wetterhorn), climbing level class 1 to class 3. Participants responsible for making their own transportation and car rental arrangements. Camping fees included in the price (campgrounds/RV parks). Outing cost $350 with 10 participants. A $100 deposit is required, with sign-up by June 15, 2016. Contact outing leader Bob Breivogel (breivog@teleport.com) or assistant leader Tom Davidson (tedclimbs@gmail.com) for more information or to apply.
LOST COAST TRAIL TREK SEP. 15–22, 2016 Hike 60 miles along a wild and scenic portion of the northern California coast between Eureka and Ft. Bragg, utilizing a shuttle service to make this a one-way journey. Travel light and fast, around 10 miles per day with elevation gain varying from near level to 2,000 ft. Cost is $347–$432 ( for six–eight participants), covering all fees, shuttle, and lodging costs. Signup deadline June 30. $100 deposit is required upon acceptance. Contact leader Gary Bishop, gbish90@ hotmail.com, or assistant Darin Richardson, darin@delineate. net, for more information.
GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS—HIKES & CULTURE SEP. 25–OCT. 1, 2016 Explore spectacular Appalachian scenery and experience culture in western North Carolina. There will be B-level hikes, 7–8 miles with elevation gain up to 2,000 ft., with options for harder ones. Typical pace will be leisurely. Cost is $495–$565, depending on number of participants, includes lodging, one meal, and all fees. Participants are responsible for their meals, airline cost (estimated $550), and car rental. Maximum 26 participants. $200 deposit due June 30. For information and approval to participate, contact leader Bill Dewsnap, billdewsnap@ gmail.com, 503-260-6712. For information only, contact assistant leader: Tony Spiering aespiering@gmail.com, 503-6808112. Jim Selby, who has led this outing in the past, will also be participating in the outing and
advising the trip leaders. Jim lived in this area for a number of years and has insider information on all the great places to go!
CHAMONIX—MT. BLANC ALPINE CLIMBING JULY 9–24, 2017 Intermediate Climbing School graduates, Advanced School graduates, or equivalent experience required. Most climbs involve following pitches of 5th class terrain and/or WI2+. Outing cost will be $2,250 per person, airfare to Geneva not included. Costs include round trip transportation from Geneva to/from Chamonix and all lodging and transportation within the Chamonix-Mt. Blanc area for 15 days (nearly all lifts, gondolas, trains, and cable cars are included). Food cost, hut fees and the Midi-Hellbronner gondola not included. For full details go to the website. Contact leader Lee Davis, lee@mazamas. org for more information.
Want to go on an outing? Contact the leader for more information. Forms you will need: application, liability release, and a medical information form. Send those forms to the leader and then, upon acceptance for the trip, send payments directly to the Mazama office with the name of the outing written on the check. As a service to our members, we are providing links to the following organizations that may also offer trips of interest: Seattle Mountaineers—seattlemountaineers.org, Colorado Mountain Club—cmc. org, Appalachian Mountain Club—outdoors.org, and the American Alpine Club—americanalpineclub.org. “As an incentive for leaders to put in the time and effort to arrange and lead outings, the leader and assistant leader costs may be paid by the participants.” JUNE 2016 35
TRAIL TRIPS SCHEDULE
JOIN US! MAZAMA TRAIL TRIPS ARE OPEN TO EVERYONE. Contact Trail Trips Committee chair Regis Krug at 503-704-6642 with any questions. To lead a hike next month, go to: mazamas2.org.
WEBSITE UPDATES
Leaders may schedule a hike after the Bulletin is published, or occasionally a hike location will change. Visit mazamas. org/activities-events/hikeschedule/ for updates!
HK B2 Jun 01 (Wed) Table RockRooster Rock. Rex Breunsbach 971832-2556 or rbreunsbach@gmail.com. Wilderness—Limit 12. Molalla forest Gem with two great viewpoints. You’ll witness some of the finest columnar basalt formations and huge anthills. 10 mi., 2600 Ft., Drive 130, MMC 8 a.m. HK B2 Jun 04 (Sat) Eagle Creek (Cross-Over Falls). Dan Smith 971331-4823. Wilderness—Limit 12. Great hike on Eagle Creek up past Punch Bowl falls and behind a great waterfall. Must have hiked several 8-mile or more hikes in the previous weeks. Lots of photo opportunities. 12.6 mi., 1,080 Ft., Drive 74, TH, Gateway 7 a.m. (WF) HK C2.5 Jun 04 (Sat) Multnomah Falls to Larch Mt. Kate Evans 503635-6540. Wilderness—Limit 12. We start at Multnomah Falls and steadily slog up to the summit of Larch Mountain with its spectacular views. Call or email the leader to sign up for this wilderness area hike.
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 Cw indicates winter conditions Class D and Dw: Very difficult, strenuous trips in challenging conditions. No specific distance or elevation gain. Special equipment, conditioning, and experience may be required. Contact leader for details before the day of the trip is mandatory. Dw indicates winter conditions. 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 36 MAZAMAS
WILDERNESS DESIGNATION
Wilderness—Limit 12. indicates that the hike enters a Forest Servicedesignated Wilderness Area and the group size is limited to 12.
kateevans97@gmail.com 13.8 mi., 4,100 Ft., Drive 48, Gateway 8 a.m. (WF) HK B2 Jun 05 (Sun) Saddle Mountain. Sheri Alice Smith 503807-9373. Let's head up to the summit of Saddle Mountain where we may enjoy views overlooking the rugged coast mountain range to the east and spectacular Pacific Ocean views to the west. Plenty of wonderful views along the way. Wildflowers a bonus. Nicely graded uphill. 7.2 mi., 1,900 Ft., Drive 96, TH, Gateway 8 a.m. (AR) HK C2 Jun 05 (Sun) Salmon Butte Trail. David Nelson dkbmnelson@ gmail.com. Wilderness—Limit 12. Hike through old-growth forest and ascend into an abundance of rhododendrons and bear grass. The many switchbacks on this nice trail leads to a butte top with views of Mts. Hood, Adams, Jefferson, St. Helens, the Three Sisters and Mt. Rainier. Weather dependent. Will have lunch before heading back down. First come,
= 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. “Wilderness—Limit 12” indicates the hike enters a Forest Service-designated Wilderness Area; group size limited to 12. MU: Hike is posted on Meetup. Hike fees: $2 for members, each family participant, and those belonging to clubs in FWOC; $4 for non-members. No person will be turned away if they are unable to pay. Street Ramble fees: $2 per person; $1 per person if over 55 or 14 and under. Both members and nonmembers are welcome at all trail trips. Trail Tending events are free. 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
ADVENTUROUS YOUNG MAZAMAS HIKING
STREET RAMBLES
first on the list at Gateway, or contact leader at dkbmnelson@gmail.com. 12 mi., 3,200 Ft., Drive 90, TH, Gateway 8 a.m.
HK A1.5 Jun 12 (Sun) Gillette Lake. Richard Getgen teambears@frontier. com. Hike from Bonneville TH along the PCT to a lake below Table Mountain. 5 mi., 300 Ft., Drive 80, TH, Gateway 8 a.m.
Everyone is welcome. See the separate list at mazamas.org/activitiesevents/aym/
HK B2 Jun 08 (Wed) Horseshoe Ridge Loop. Rex Breunsbach 971832-2556 or rbreunsbach@gmail. com. Wilderness—Limit 12. This loop takes you up remote Horseshoe Ridge, which is just that—a horseshoe shaped ridge that cradles the drainage of Horseshoe Creek. The trail is far less traveled than the Nesmith Point Trail and is not frequently maintained. 10.4 mi., 3400 Ft., Drive 98, TH, MMC 8 a.m. HK B1.5 Jun 11 (Sat) Angel’s Rest. Jim Selby 828-508-5094. Angel’s Rest for slowpokes who like wildflowers and an evening view. Great views to the east when we reach the top around 6:30 p.m., back to the cars by 8:30 p.m. A good workout at a leisurely pace. 4.6 mi., 1,584 Ft., Drive 42, Gateway 4 p.m. MU (WF, AR)
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 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; SnoPass–Snow park pass. 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
Multiple teams hike at different paces every Tuesday and Thursday 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.
HK B2 Jun 12 (Sun) Mitchell Point— Wygant Trail. Rex Breunsbach 971832-2556 or rbreunsbach@gmail.com. Two great viewpoints overlooking Dog Mountain and the eastern gorge. We will make the short steep hike up to Mitchell Point, then return to the parking lot and follow the Wygant Peak trail west up to a great viewpoint. 160 mi., 1,270 Ft., Drive 110, TH, Gateway 8 a.m. HK C2 Jun 12 (Sun) Devil’s Peak Lookout (Cool Creek). Sherry Bourdin 503-246-8095. Wilderness— Limit 12. If you're looking for a short hike that promises you a great workout and a nice viewpoint from the summit, this is it. In addition, you’ll get to explore an old fire lookout. You'll be home in time to
and firearms are not allowed. Participants should wear appropriate hiking shoes; 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.
enjoy the rest of your Sunday. 8.2 mi., 3,200 Ft., Drive 84, Gateway 7:30 a.m. (AR)
leader at dkbmnelson@gmail. com. 16 mi., 4525 Ft., Drive 48, TH, Gateway 7:30 a.m. (WF, AR, GH)
SR B3 Jun 14 (Tue) Triple Crown. Bob Breivogel 503-292-2940. Ramble up Council Crest, over to Hoyt Arboretum, and on to Pittock Mansion, the three high points of West Portland. Bring headlamp. 9 mi., 1,700 Ft., Drive 0, REI—Pearl, NW 14th & Johnson 6 p.m.
HK B2 Jun 19 (Sun) Indian Point via Gorton Creek Trail. Brett Nair 503-847-9550. Wilderness—Limit 12. The Indian Point loop travels through forested trails in the eastern Gorge to a fantastic viewpoint. 8.9 mi., 2,800 Ft., Drive 78, TH, Gateway 8 a.m. MU
HK C2 Jun 15 (Wed) Hardy Mt. Hamilton. Larry Solomon muensterhump@hotmail.com. Up the panoramic West Hardy Ridge to Phlox Point for lunch. Then down the East Ridge, cross a wooden bridge, and up Don's Cutoff to summit Mt. Hamilton. Then down and back out. Discover Pass needed for drivers. 14 mi., 3,400 Ft., Drive 100, TH, MMC 8 a.m. (WF, AR)
HK C2 Jun 19 (Sun) Wauna Point. Rex Breunsbach 971-8322556 or rbreunsbach@gmail.com. Wilderness—Limit 12. Up the switchbacks on the Tanner Butte trail, then down to the viewpoint above Bonneville Dam 10.4 mi., 3200 Ft., Drive 70, Gateway 8 a.m.
HK B2 Jun 17 (Fri) Bull of the Woods. Rex Breunsbach 971-8322556 or rbreunsbach@gmail.com. Wilderness—Limit 12. Mt. Jefferson is up close and personal. The lookout is aging but still there. This a long slow drive, therefore expect a long day. 7.1 mi., 2,000 Ft., Drive 142, MMC 8 a.m. HK A2 Jun 18 (Sat) Heritage Tree Hike #3, Laurelhurst. Tom Guyot 503-761-9519. This urban hike stops at Heritage Trees in the Laurelhurst area. The pace will be moderate and includes stops in the Lone Fir Cemetery and Laurelhurst Park. Along the way, we'll see 16 very impressive trees representing 12 different species. Meet at the MMC parking lot at the corner of SE 43rd and SE Start. This is a dog-friendly activity. 4.3 mi., 100 ft. Ft., Drive none, none 8:30 a.m. MU HK B2 Jun 18 (Sat) Devil’s Rest (via Wahkeena). Dan Smith 971331-4823. Great hike up past several waterfalls and along the top of the ridge. You may see Mt. Adams and Mount St. Helens on a clear day! Short drive and back early. 7.4 mi., 2400 Ft., Drive 45, Gateway 8 a.m. (WF, AR) HK C2 Jun 18 (Sat) Larch Mountain via Wahkeena to Multnomah Falls. David Nelson dkbmnelson@gmail.com. Wilderness—Limit 12. We will start at Wahkeena Falls following the creek past several waterfalls as we wind our way up. If weather cooperates, we will have fantastic views of several mountains. We’ll enjoy lunch lunch and then begin our decent to Multnomah Falls along Multnomah Creek and back to our cars at Wahkeena Falls. First come, first on the list, or contact
HK C2 Jun 22 (Wed) Boulder Ridge to Huckleberry Mountain. Larry Solomon muensterhump@ hotmail.com. Wilderness—Limit 12. Cross the Salmon River on a 300-foot arcing bridge. Many switchbacks with views of Mt. Hood, Hunchback Mt., Wildcat Mountain and McIntyre Ridge along the way. Panoramic summit views of Mts. Adams, Rainier, St. Helens, and Jefferson. 10.5 mi., 3,100 Ft., Drive 87, MMC 8 a.m. (AR, MH) HK B2 Jun 24 (Fri) Indian Mountain via PCT. Rex Breunsbach 971-832-2556 or rbreunsbach@ gmail.com. Wilderness—Limit 12. Great hike from Wahtum Lake with gorge vistas and a mountain viewpoint. Long drive so plan on a long day. 9 mi., 1,200 Ft., Drive 170, TH, MMC 8 a.m. HK A2 Jun 25 (Sat) Moulton Falls. Jim Selby 828-508-5094. Northeast of Battleground, this is a fairly level hike with waterfalls and unusual wildflowers. Brief stop at Lucia Falls before going to the Moulton trailhead. Bring lunch to eat at Moulton Falls Chelatchee Railroad station next to the falls. Resident eagle may even greet us. Back to Gateway by 3:30 p.m. 6 mi., 200 Ft., Drive 60, Gateway 8 a.m. MU (WF) HK B1.5 Jun 25 (Sat) Tillamook Head (Seaside-Cannon Beach). Richard Getgen teambears@ frontier.com. Hike from Seaside over forested headlands past Indian Beach and Ecola Point to Cannon Beach. Car shuttle. 11 mi., 1,600 Ft., Drive 125, Target/185th 8 a.m. HK C1.5 Jun 25 (Sat) Ruckel Ridge-Ruckel Creek Loop. Nancy Goering ngoering@att.net. Contact leader by email to reserve a spot. Wilderness—Limit 12. If you can do long, steep, and rugged but not fast, here's your chance to do a
New Awards!
You'll notice some new codes on the schedule. There are five new awards you can now hike your way towards. Waterfall (WF), Awesome Ridges (AR), Gorge High Points (GH), Wild Ones (WO), and Mt. Hood (MH). Check the Trail Trips web page for more details. Happy hiking!
STREET RAMBLES Tuesdays & Thursday Multiple teams hike at different paces every Tuesday and Thursday 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. Triple Crown Ramble: June 14 & 28 Three Rambles in one—up Council Crest, over to Hoyt Arboretum, and on to Pittock Mansion, the three high points of West Portland. Bring headlamp. 9 mi., 1,700 ft., Meet at REIPearl, NW 14th and Johnson. Group leaves promptly at 6 p.m. Wednesday Mt. Tabor Street Rambles Walk at a brisk pace (2.5-3.0 mi/hr.) through the streets, admiring the gardens of SE Portland to Mt. Tabor Park—we may even catch a glimpse of a heritage tree. In the park, we’ll take alternating trails to the top of the 280 stairs at the NE corner of the park. From there we will have 30 minutes to walk up and down the stairs, then finish with a moderate stroll back to the MMC. 2 hours, 5 mi., 500 ft. (not including stairs climbed up/ down). $2 fee. Leave from Mazama Mountaineering Ctr, SE 43rd & Stark at 6 p.m. (please arrive early to sign in). classic Gorge hike. Ruckel Ridge is a rocky scramble up an exposed ridge. We've got long days on our side so we can take our time getting up. Read the description in the link and contact the leader if you have any concerns about your ability to do this hike. In wet weather we will do an out and back of Ruckel Creek trail instead. 9.6 mi., 3,800 Ft., Drive 74, TH, Gateway 7:30 a.m. (GH,WF, AR)
and whimsical artifacts. Tape your heels and ... come see. 6 mi., 1,930 Ft., Drive 30, Lewis & Clark—near toilets 8 a.m. (AR)
HK A1.5 Jun 26 (Sun) Three-Corner Rock (via PCT). Bob Breivogel 503292-2940. Leisurely hike to seldomvisited portion of PCT to a landmark lookout with 5 mountain view and wildflowers. Washington side of gorge near Bridge of the Gods. 4.8 mi., 1,200 Ft., Drive 100, TH, Gateway 9 a.m. MU
HK C2 Jun 29 (Wed) Salmon Butte Trail. Larry Solomon muensterhump@ hotmail.com. Wilderness—Limit 12. Hike through old growth forest then ascend into an abundance of rhododendrons. Climb the many switchbacks to a track just below the summit of Salmon Butte from where we view Mts. Hood, Adams, and Jefferson. 12 mi., 3,200 Ft., Drive 98, MMC 8 a.m. (MH, AR)
HK B1.5 Jun 26 (Sun) Coopey Ridge Hike. Kelly Marlin mazamamama@ frontier.com or 503-665-6778 . An adventure hike, for sure. Recently discovered/developed, this rugged and primitive path marches up a steep, but unexposed, ridge to Bridal Veil Plateau
SR B3 Jun 28 (Tue) Triple Crown. Bob Breivogel 503-292-2940. 3 hour Ramble up Council Crest, over to Hoyt Arboretum, and on to Pittock Mansion, the three high points of West Portland. Bring headlamp. 9 mi., 1700 Ft., Drive 0, REI—Pearl, NW 14th & Johnson 6 p.m.
JUNE 2016 37
THIS MONTH IN EXECUTIVE COUNCIL The Executive Council meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are open to members. by Jamie Anderson, Mazama Member Services Manager The May meeting of Executive Council (EC) focused on strategic initiatives, with specific attention on the IT project, the potential property at Smith Rock, and the Development project ( fundraising). Additionally, two administrative initiatives were reviewed: reviewing options for a membership vote on a dues change and an initial review of goals for next fiscal year. The Executive Director’s report showed that April was a big month both in internal programs and external relations. In addition to the completion of BCEP and the launch of the climbing season, Lee Davis traveled to Washington, D.C. where he met with other members of the Alpine 5 (the Mazamas, the Mountaineers, the Colorado Mountain Club, the Appalachian Mountain Club, and the American Alpine Club) and attended the Outdoor Industry Capitol Summit. The Alpine 5 discussed forming a memorandum of understanding on how to better coordinate education program delivery. At the Capitol Summit, Lee met with several members of Congress and other outdoor industry companies to discuss access and resource issues. He also met with the US Forest Service Legislative Affairs office to discuss permitting and stewardship credit programs. Meanwhile, the IT project was officially launched, and the project kickoff meeting was held to review workflows and revised data models and features. During the month of May, five additional meetings will be held with stakeholder groups to validate features and requirements. A town hall-style meeting is being planned for June to introduce the project to the membership. The second project that was discussed was the potential acquisition and development of a property adjacent to Smith Rock State Park. Both the Mazamas Foundation and EC voted unanimously in 2012 to secure a purchase option agreement on a piece of land and develop it for the use of climbers and hikers visiting the park. The final option was paid and the final purchase amount will be due next year. A series of milestones was presented between now and a “go/no go” decision point in March, 2017.
Find a shuttle. Become a shuttle. Post a rider request. Lat Long, Zip Code, Google Map locators. Advice welcome.
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For Outdoor For Enthusiasts Everywhere
38 MAZAMAS
There was substantial discussion but no consensus regarding the nature of the final project at this time. Open considerations include: deciding on the nature of potential industry partnerships in completing the project, completing due-diligence and securing a conditional use permit, gathering the input of the membership, and insuring fiscal viability. Initial feasibility and business plans have been completed, and due-diligence and concept design will proceed under the leadership of the Mazamas Foundation. The final discussion of the evening focused on three options for a potential dues increase at this fall’s election. Opinions on the degree of the dues increase and extent of changes to the bylaws were varied. However, discussion ultimately settled on refining an option that calls for a dues increase in-line with inflation, streamlines some language, and would allow for EC to ask for more regular inflation-adjusted increases and create additional rate categories to meet contemporary needs. The proposal will go to Governing Documents. Finally, updates were delivered on development and department goals for the upcoming fiscal year. Due to length of the other conversations, these topics were not pursued beyond basic reports. The Development report focused on the increasing role of philanthropic support in growing the Mazama program service model. Draft goals were delivered for initial consideration prior to the beginning of the budgeting cycle and will be revisited at the May Board Retreat and June EC Meeting. If you’d like more information or to see the complete reports from the meeting, please visit the members section of the Mazama Website, and go to “Other Member Resources.”
Mazama members all have access to full Executive Council minutes. Go to: mazamas.org, login, go to the Members section and click on Executive Council Reports. Please note: Full minutes are available on a one month delay due to the approval process.
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