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Mount Saint Helens

September 23, 2011

Coordinator: Paul Winther

Summit Altitude: 8365 feet

Photo Gallery

Arrived at Climber's Bivy (3700ft) at 2:00PM, Thursday 9-22-11. Talked to returning climbers who reported winds, rain, & coulds on the upper part of the mountain.

Around 4:00PM I hiked to timberline (4800') to confirm a thick cloud layer down to 6000'. Returned to camp to await the rest of the group and made a fire for drinks and soup. Tyler arrived at 8:15PM with news that the Armstrongs were not coming & the climb was just the two of us.

6:00 wake up to clear sky & mild temp (60F). 7:00AM start - arrive @ timberline 7:50. Followed footpath slightly west of Monitor Ridge (easier) which has new yellow markers on the pine poles marking the route.

Arrived at final scree slopes (7000') @ 9:55. Wind was stronger here, but helped keep us cool.

Summit @ 10:45AM to wonderful views - spectacularly clear. After photos & snacks left summit @ 11:10AM and were back to the camp @ 1:30. We had to fix a flat tire - more fun! Temps now in 75-80F. Saw 40-50 people total - most were behind us. Checked out at Lone Fir in Cougar @ 3:00PM. Home @ 4:30.

- P.R.W.


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