brooklyngoilnnp

Despite all of the rain this has been a great spring so far. Its been great because I have steady work and I am getting in some great climbing with some awesome partners. This season marks my second spring in NP and it couldn't be more different than last year.

Last year I was coming off the big move to NP and still trying to suss out things with work and build a community of friends and climbing partners. This year I have a job. A job I like a lot. I have lots of climbing partners including many many women. And I have a wonderful community of friends.

Another goal I had last year was to become a guide. This year I am one albeit one who is not working as a guide but that's another blog entry.

One of my dreams for the past two years has been to climb in the Northern Cascades in Washington state. One of the premier alpine playgrounds in the lower 48, the Cascades has stunning snow and ice covered peaks with plenty of exposure, glacier travel, and beautiful alpine rock routes.

This august it looks like my friend B and I will be heading out to the Grunge capital and making dreams come true.

The goals is to climb 2-3 peaks over 6-7 days. We'll be making our base camp in an area called the Boston Basin. From there we have access to all 3 peaks with additional peaks and routes available to choose from. Sahale, Sharkfin and Forbidden are all classic 5 star climbs within our skill set and level of physical conditioning. I am hoping to practice some glacier travel and crevasse rescue skills this summer as well as map reading and compass navigation.

Here's hoping it works out.

a) Sahale Peak (8,680 ft) via the Quien Sabe Glacier



b) Sharkfin Tower (approx. 8,200 ft) via the Southeast Ridge



c) Forbidden Peak (8,815 ft)