Okay, so I was thinking. Resorts are going to be absolutely shitty this upcoming MLK weekend. I'm over trying to ski the same slope as 300 other people. I'm sure some of you may be as well.
In any case, I suggest a solution: A hike. Something short and easy, with a summit, and some cool terrain. Mt Pilchuck, from what I remember, has all of these features. I climbed it as a kid, and on that one, we didnt need skins so much due to the trail being heavily used. Not to sure it will be the same, so suggestions from someone who's hiked it recently? Also, this is all subject to change if avy danger gets bad, I'd just not prefer to fuck with slabby snow even though the trail is mostly woven around trees and all.
Oh yeah, and if this solidifies, open invitation, bring yourself, your snowboarder friends, ect. Post where you are if you'll be needing a ride, we'll probably have an open seat or two.
Directions:
From the Everett area,
take State Route 92 through Granite Falls. Continue straight ahead,
down Stanley St, and turn left at the stop sign (by the car wash). Go
straight through the next stop (now on the Mountain Loop Highway).
Continue down Mountain Loop several miles until you go over the
silver/blue bridge. Immediately after the bridge, turn right. It is
clearly labeled Mt Pilchuck. Follow the well used road until it ends in
a parking lot (former ski lodge). There is a pit toilet and sign
clearly marking the start. Sign in just up the trail from the parking
lot. For more info and trail conditions, stop at the Verlot Ranger
Station.
In any case, I suggest a solution: A hike. Something short and easy, with a summit, and some cool terrain. Mt Pilchuck, from what I remember, has all of these features. I climbed it as a kid, and on that one, we didnt need skins so much due to the trail being heavily used. Not to sure it will be the same, so suggestions from someone who's hiked it recently? Also, this is all subject to change if avy danger gets bad, I'd just not prefer to fuck with slabby snow even though the trail is mostly woven around trees and all.
Oh yeah, and if this solidifies, open invitation, bring yourself, your snowboarder friends, ect. Post where you are if you'll be needing a ride, we'll probably have an open seat or two.
Directions:
From the Everett area,
take State Route 92 through Granite Falls. Continue straight ahead,
down Stanley St, and turn left at the stop sign (by the car wash). Go
straight through the next stop (now on the Mountain Loop Highway).
Continue down Mountain Loop several miles until you go over the
silver/blue bridge. Immediately after the bridge, turn right. It is
clearly labeled Mt Pilchuck. Follow the well used road until it ends in
a parking lot (former ski lodge). There is a pit toilet and sign
clearly marking the start. Sign in just up the trail from the parking
lot. For more info and trail conditions, stop at the Verlot Ranger
Station.
