Alpine Scramble - Cowboy Mountain

8:45 start, snow surface supportable, 40F, calm/no wind, as we gained elevation and burned time towards the upper station of the Skyline lift, snow had started to soften. Once past the lift and around the corner into the shade and heading up western ridge of Cowboy conditions immediately changed to a frozen surface. The more elevation we gained, the kick stepping rose to a new and exciting challenge, under most trees was a collection of hard frozen snow from upper branches snow having melted, dropped and refroze, plus on closer examination ice cube like pieces that had the appearance of rime ice that had form, and now from warming also dropped at the base of the trees. We used the adz of our axes at times for better and safer steps, though only occasionally, stepping where the spike of the ax had penetrated the surface sufficed quite nice for a location to kick a decent step.  Upon gaining the ridge the snow changed to boot deep, and we enjoyed views while making our way to the summit. On our return route discussion was opened on the option of dropping down one of the steep openings off the north side. Group agreement was approved, and we downclimbed one of the slots to a fun spot to glissade hundreds of feet down. Smiles all around! Our debrief was a review of great communication which led to everyone's input on the days route selection.