Paradise Area (winter)

Mar 7-8 2015: Low snow depth, but incomparable weather for this winter camping trip to Mazama ridge. We snowshoed out along the road to Fourth Crossing, then up to the ridgeline. The snow was softening during the afternoon. Achieving the ridgeline, we traveled north a bit to find a good campsite at the edge of treeline, with views in all directions. After setting up camp and digging out a kitchen, we variously relaxed (enjoying the views and chatting with other snowshoers and skiers) or struck out to explore nearby knolls. Atop the nearest knoll, we were shocked to find that some previous visitors had cut down eight green trees to fuel a bonfire. Evening was spent enjoying dinner and each others' company, as well as the golden light of sunset. Stargazing at night, along with watching headlamps on the Mountain. In the morning another exploratory snowshoe was made northward along the ridgeline as far as Peak 6252, before heading back to break camp. Lots of opportunity for that favorite Mountaineers pastime of "Name that Peak". Late lunch at the Elbe Tavern on the way home.