Backcountry Ski/Snowboard - Mount Baker Ski Area

8:30AM inside Baker Lodge (https://maps.app.goo.gl/HGyx9GMV4FbEHycr5)

We will review the plan for the day inside the lodge, then take a short walk across the parking lot to the trailhead. 

parking here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/V1Tq1GgjumBVUUWG6

Specific route will be determined based on weather, avalanche forecast and snow conditions.

Plan for about 3000ft - 3500ft of gain, and touring for at least 6 hours. Pace is about 800ft-1000ft gain per hour - a bit on the slower side but moving at a steady pace. We will transition multiples times.

Strong uphill and downhill skills required - ability to ski ungroomed black diamonds in the resort, and experience with route selection, setting skin tracks, and uphill skinning / kick turns. All participants will take turns navigating and setting the skin track. 

Leader permission required, including for the co-leader. Please provide the following information: year you last took AIARE 1 and describe (or provide tracks for) the last 2 tours you went on - date, distance, elevation, duration, location, snow conditions. 

Baker Lodge is open if you're looking for a place to stay - food, festivities, and great company. Signup here: Baker Lodge Calendar — The Mountaineers

Possible route options: 

1. Table Mt Circumnavigation, with downhill run into Wells Creek: 9miles, 3300ft gain  - Gaia Route
2. Swift Creek laps
3. Mazama Bowl and Herman Saddle

Note:   Extreme Avalanche Forecast from NWAC, rain or Hwy 542 closures will cancel the trip. If NWAC forecast is for a High avalanche hazard -- inbounds lift skiing will be a fallback option considered.

Avalanche Forecast Zone: West Slopes North Avalanche Forecast - Northwest Avalanche Center