Winter Backpacking Mt Baker: 17 Nov 2018



Our group of 3, started at the Heliotrope Trailhead, it was at least 32F, so a little nippy :)
The plan was to enjoy a leisurely hike up, then evaluate the climbers route to get to the Hogback campsite. The weather was perfect, we reached the waterfalls, which was partly frozen over, but looked gorgeous.



Going the climbers routes, poles, spikes were the minimum.
Eventually, reaching the Hogsback campsite, we proceeded to pitch 3 tents.

Enjoying the view
Gotta stay warm!
My home for the night


 After setting up the tents, sunset approached quickly! So we got our cooking area setup and started to melt snow for dinner.




After some good food, and fireball whiskey to warm us up, we saw an amazing moonrise, with the sunset.



I stayed up to take a few night photos.


Skiers coming down at night

With less than 5mph winds, it was perfect conditions, dropping to 27F.


 



After a bit of exploring on the mountain, at a very relaxed we packed up and started on the way down.
During the night the climbers route had changed quite a bit, what was easily manageable snow and some hard ice, had turned to very icy conditions, this would require an ice axe, crampons and helmet, along with proper self arrest training.
We made our way down slowly and carefully, constantly talking about the amazing views and experience of camping at the base of a glacier and one of the base camps to climb Mt Baker.

A lovely trip in perfect conditions :)










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