Mount Shasta
Peligro de aludes
Lo esencial
Avalanche danger is low. Normal caution is advised. Other hazards remain on the upper ramparts of Mount Shasta, most notably icefall. Warm, sunny days can cause ice to shed from rocky cliffs and fall onto climbers below. A helmet is strongly advised, and an ice axe with 12‑point crampons is mandatory. Smooth, firm morning snow can create slide‑for‑life conditions. Solid self‑arrest skills are critical.
Avalanche Discussion
Good morning from Mount Shasta, where it’s a downright tropical 50°F at treeline at 5 a.m., accompanied by a moderate northeasterly breeze at 15 mph, gusting to 30. Snow depth is hanging on at about 70 inches, though we’ve melted off 15 inches in the past two weeks. Strong inversions are keeping the mountains warm and the valleys chilly; expect more of that trend. Even so, winter recreation is still alive on the big mountain and in the surrounding area. The Mount Shasta Ski Park and Nordic Center remain open, while Pilgrim Creek and Deer Mountain Sno-Parks are looking a little… diet‑version. Recent Deer Mountain observation here.
You’d think with these absurdly warm temps we’d be seeing more wet loose avalanche activity. But alas—just a few rollerballs and pinwheels. Still, stay vigilant for wet, mushy snow. If you notice the snow surface losing cohesion, you know the drill: find a shadier aspect or dial it back to lower‑angle terrain.
Snow surfaces are a mixed bag, but far from tragic. There are moments of brilliance to be found out there, with some January corn getting a nice slow roast. Coverage is solid enough all the way to Bunny Flat. That said, patches of funk persist, so stay alert— don’t be afraid to throw in some pizza if your french fries start getting enthusiastic.
Climbing conditions and weather look good this weekend. Bring an ice axe, crampons, and a helmet—non‑negotiable. Solid self‑arrest skills are a must. And yes, the falling rime ice hazard is very real. User beware!