Join us for beginner-friendly spring mountaineering in Lassen National Park.

We'll hike in from the south visitors center (6700'), up to Emerald Lake / Lake Helen (8200') where we'll camp for the night.

The next morning we'll get an "alpine start", for the climb of Eagle Peak, which tops out at 9193 feet,

Snowshoes or skis with skins are recommended for the approach on Saturday afternoon. For the climb on Sunday morning, snowshoes, crampons, or skis may all be feasible, depending on snow conditions.

This will be a strenuous but not "extreme" activity, involving full packs with snow camping gear for the approach, and high elevations with possible wind and cold. Distance should be around 10 miles (r/t), with less than 3000 feet of climbing.

For those bringing crampons and ice axe, there should be good opportunities to practice self-belay and self-arrest. For those bringing a camera, the early morning light at 9000 feet, with Mt. Lassen as backdrop, should provide ample opportunity to capture some beautiful images.

Helmets are recommended in case of afternoon rock fall, and two sleeping pads are recommended for sleeping on snow.

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  GaryG

  Note: for those not interested in overnight camping, this event will be a good opportunity for a one-day snowshoe. The hike up to Lake Helen should be about 4 miles (one way), with about 1500 feet of climbing.

  Posted May 8, 2010 at 11:06 AM