Enjoy the alpine solitude, as we climb the South Face of Mt. Lassen. This route is off limits in the summer, but with a nice coating of late season snow, we should be good to go.

This will probably be mostly a snowshoe climb, though crampons might work too if the snow is firm enough (I'm bringing both). Ice axe required for the steep bits, and a helmet would be smart to wear in case of rock or ice fall. Poles recommended too.

We'll start from the southern entrance (as far up the road as we can drive - probably Sulfur Works).

For safety, an alpine start is required (translation: really early).

It's about 7 or 8 miles round trip, with a bit over 3000 feet of climbing. That doesn't sound too bad, eh? But, about half the climb will be on steep "angle of repose" snow, and possibly rock too.

We should summit by 9 am, and be back to the cars by noon-ish.

Note: this is considered a non-technical climb (no ropes required). However, there will be some exposure, on 30-35 degree snow covered slopes. Snow shoes should be aggressive all terrain models (e.g., MSR Lightning Ascent). On the lower slopes we'll practice ice axe self-arrest, before committing to the steep stuff (starting past Lake Helen).