Winter Scramble - Whiteface Peak (winter)

Our large group of 11 left the Yodelin parking area about 8:30am.  It was really cold.  We crossed Hwy 2 and walked through Yodelin village on the Stevens Road/S Nason Road to its end in about .8 miles.  

From there we continued through trees in very compacted snow keeping Nason Creek on our left.  We crossed some side creeks a couple times with no problems.  (photo courtesy of  Fionnuala Morrish) 

There was a weather inversion and it was very cold while we hiked in the clouds. At about 4500' when you're able to see the summit, we saw nothing today.  We put on our snowshoes here (although not necessary) and soon started the  climb up to the ridge.

Once further along the ridge and above the clouds, it was blue skies and the views spectacular.

What a ridgeline!  Photo courtesy of  Fionnuala Morrish.Almost to the summit with Mt McCausland and Glacier Peak in view.

The highest point is a little further per Peakbaggers so we continue on.  We all tag the summit (looking back, the group at the right side of the photo is on the highest point) and then return to a better place on the ridge to have lunch.

We spend close to a hour here eating lunch and enjoying the views before descending.  We continue to enjoy the views on the descent until we're in the trees again.We remove our snowshoes even before we reach the place where we put them on. 

Soon we're back in the clouds again and crossing the creeks. (photo courtesy of  Fionnuala Morrish) 

Back on the road for the .8mi walk to the Yodelin parking area.  
Dinner at Maggy's Mexican Family Restaurant for 9 of us afterwards made for a wonderful day with another  great group of Mountaineers.