Winter Scramble - Cowlitz Gap & Rocks (winter)

Longmire at 8:30.  National Park Pass and tire chains required for all vehicles entering the Park in winter

Come join what will hopefully be an amazing winter scramble to Cowlitz Rocks, complete with bluebird skies and amazing views.  Or, a great team activity working through navigation and snow assessment as we go.  Regardless, a good time!

General route:  From Paradise, take the Valley Road to Fourth Crossing, then rise up to Mazama Ridge.  Continue north, working around the head of Stevens Creek and any snow sloughing off McClure Rock.   At some point, we will likely transition from snowshoes to crampons, and pull out our axes as we get to the top of Cowlitz Rocks at 7425'.   

Expectations:  I move at a somewhat slower than moderate pace, so please be comfortable with that.  No jackrabbits needed.  Instead, I like to emphasize a "all for one, one for all" group dynamic where we will work together on navigation and snow assessment, as well as photography.  

As with all winter activities, weather or snow conditions may force a change in destination.  If the Longmire gate will be opening late, we may shift our goal to Mildred Point.   Or if the weather is plain gawd awful, we may just cancel.