Snowshoes on Washington

[MadRiver]

I might do Washington this weekend with a friend and some new people who I haven't hiked with before. Will snowshoes be warranted, or will Tucks and Lion Head be packed out. I do not mind carrying the extra weight if snowshoes will be needed. Also, what item would you not climb Washington without? (something outside your usually assortment of hiking gear)

 

[sierra]

I will garrantee Lions Head and Tucks will be packed out, snowshoes would be a waste. What I would not forget,crampons and an ixe axe as well as full coverage for your face, plus very warm clothes and a good shell, windchills are a strong factor on the "Rockpile".

 

[giggy]

I agree 100% - don't waste your time bringing them.

I guess make sure you got your clothing system down - if its windy, you don't want the exposed flesh and your above treeline a good ways.

I would bring an ice axe - some differ on that opinion, but lions head has one steep pitch where it comes in handy and the snowfields as well.

I think its fun route - esp if you have views into tucks/boot spur - nice alpine views.

 

[Kevin Rooney]

Did Washington a few weeks ago (1/24) via Jewell, and parked in the 3 level at the Cog (asked an RR employee if we needed to pay anything - said no). Jewell doesn't get quite as much traffic as Lions Head, but since it hadn't snowed in awhile, we just took crampons and poles. After the intersection just above Clay (about a mile from the summit) consider crossing the tracks and keeping them between you and the Great Gulf.

As for what to make sure you bring - full winter gear, including face mask and warm mitts.

I like doing Washington from either side, but am finding I like the Cog side better now that the road is open as 1) more above treeline time (just be sure to pick your day), 2) not quite as steep. I don't mind steep on the ascent, but it gets old on the descent, and 3) can rather easily include Monroe if it's a good day and the spirit moves.

 

[giggy]

ya know its funny - I love climbing washington and for a while there, I was preferring the west as well and this year - I am shifting back to liking the east side again - not sure why - think its the ridges, ravines, etc..

going to spend more time in the gulf this summer.

 

[percious]

I think you are required to climb Hunts Via the butress with me Giggy. I'll need a second (5.6)

-percious