Howson Peak (winter)

On 2/20/2016 we parked just south on highway just south of French Cabin Road & snow park. We hiked up the west ridge of 5159 then traversed over to Howson 5440'. We talking about trying to run the ridge up to Sasse, but agreed it would not be safe. In many places, neither the west side nor east side of the knife edge cornices looked like they would go. I think in May it might flatten out on the top of the ridge and be safe.
Alternatively, this could be done as a ridge run from Hex Mountain. If you try that, I would suggest doing this first and then go south if there is time.
This is a great trip when the clouds are thick on the west side of the cascades.