Name: Ptarmigan Ridge multiday traverse - Mt. Baker |
Starts: Sat Feb 01, 2025 06:30 |
Return: Sun Feb 02, 2025 22:00 |
Registration opens: Wed Jan 15, 2025 |
Event category: Backcountry Skiing |
Difficulty grade: B2 [?] |
For members only: Yes |
Screening used: Yes |
Max participants: 6 |
Organizer: Shannon Healy |
Profile info: |
Do you have a vehicle with winter tires/chains? How many participants can you take?
What is your skiing/snowboarding background and ability? What have you skied so far this year?
What is your winter camping background? Do you have the necessary equipment?
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Full disclosure: I have yet to ski Ptarmigan Ridge, though I've skied in the immediate Mt Baker area many times. Baker snow is consistent and deep, and the backdrop is always a treat. While most would do Ptarmigan in a day, there is great potential to set up a backcountry camp and extend the radius of exploration.
Expectations for participants are a background and familiarity with winter camping, as well as a moderate level of backcountry ski experience. I am not a rockstar skier, and my expectations for my organized trips will always be an inclusive and relaxed environment for all participants, and a shared experience for intermediate and advanced skiers alike. That said, this is not an environment to learn how to backcountry ski. It will be my best effort to screen for participants that will be comfortable in executing this trip. Splitboarders are welcome, though I have no idea if this is a great route for riding. Apply at your own risk.
The current objective is to camp somewhere along the ridge: I have beta on two locations that are common in the summer, and we can discuss/investigate both. This trip hinges on good and safe weather: low viz days are out, as I have painfully learned in this area. High avalanche risk days are out as well. The trip will evolve to a day trip or a different location as needed.
I am open to setting up a WhatsApp group: this is much better for logistic planning. But, it is an all or nothing option, and we can use the forum if someone would rather not use WhatsApp. Logistics such as tent sharing or car pooling will therefore be discussed as the trip gets a little closer.
I am a moderate/intermediate skier (I cut my teeth trying to telemark in the Canadian Rockies), meaning I can get down 30 degree plus stuff if the snow is good, but slow down a fair amount in bad conditions. I like to think I can survival ski most things. I have been skiing the Coast Mountains for about 11 years on an AT set up (failing horribly at telemarking). I have taken my AST2, and have participated in several beacon practices. My pace is moderate, meaning we'll get to the top, and I'll get back down, but I won't be breaking any records. I've been out a few times this season, and I'm down for busting out and giving the day a try irrespective of the gloomy snow conditions.
You are a moderate or better skier or splitboarder. You should be able to connect a few turns and move at a good pace on the up and down track. Familiarity with backcountry terrain would be an asset, though some competency at the ski resort is acceptable. You have AST1 or some avalanche education equivalent (thems the rules!), and are ready to participate in the organization of the trip. Wanna go hard and fast? This might not be the trip for you unless you are cool with dialling it back a bit. But, I will try to screen and select people that seem to mesh in fitness and skill.
Necessary gear: Camping material, including tent and stove. Warm clothing. Headlight and avalanche rescue equipment. The area absolutely requires winter tires with a capable vehicle. Carpooling will be negotiated in the forum.