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Little T

Last post 06-22-2009, 11:38 PM by DaleS. 0 replies.
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  •  06-22-2009, 11:38 PM 99020

    Little T

    Took the opportunity to climb Little Tahoma (LT) on 6/18 - 6/19.  After getting the obligatory permit from the RS just before closing, headed up to Summerland.  Hit snow just after the bridge over Fryingpan Creek.  From there, it was kickin steps and occasional boulder hopping up to Meany Crest.  Quickly went to work building a +3 foot high x +15 linear feet of wind break out of surrounding rocks - OK - earlier adventuresome souls already put it up - made for a cozy area to crash in.  The forecast wasn't great and I expected some moisture and sure enough, it rained during the night.  Got a nice climbers start in the morning and headed towards Whitman Crest on firm snow. During the approach, the weather turned from cloudy to p*** poor visibility (PPV).  Reached a lower point in the Whitman Crest and took advantage of the nice pile of loose scree and ski screed down to the Whitman Glacier - and the low visibility was enhanced by a light snow which continued on and off for the next four hours, until it turned into rain - very nice!  The winds would shift occasionally and I could get glimpses of LT as I ascended up the Whitman Glacier.  Near the summit, I was on the lookout for the snow gully which led to a gap - and the PPV wasn't helping.  After a dead end, the proper gap was located and it was on up to the summit.  The summit rocks were nice and wet however the scramble to the top was overall very basic.  I ditched the pack and crossed the notch/remaining gully with no issues.  The reward for this mountain adventure was great views of 30 meters in all directions.  On the descent, I found a boot path that led to a gap in the Whitman Crest mentioned in the guide books and it was back to Meany Crest and the 4 star wind break to collect up the remaining gear.  The descent to the trailhead was in a nice steady rain.  Also - saw a Costco sized mosquito looking for an easy lunch at Fryingpan Creek.  Like Obama and the fly, the mosquito is now legs up - take that PETA.
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