03-15-2016-Casaval Ridge

Casaval Ridge is currently in great shape.  That being said,with all the new snow recently received soft snow conditions will make uphill travel challenging.  Despite being a ridge route void of most exposure to avalanches there is some portions of the ridge where one may trigger and get sucked down by an avalanche.  Postholing in deep snow may also be encountered.  March has been generous with plenty of snow, but soft snow can make this route difficult.  Good weather is currently on tap for today (March 15th) through Friday (March 18th). Stormy weather is forcast for this coming weekend (19th-21st) making an ascent of this route not advisable then.  For those who want a challenging, but fun winter ascent of Mount Shasta, this is it.  That being said, expect pockets of soft snow and "post holing" conditions, as well as stretches of wind scoured, firm to icy snow.  This is not a route for the faint of heart.  While this route is not technically difficult, Casaval Ridge presents its difficulty by providing exposure to long slips and falls along much of the upper ridge line. It is recommended that one has strong self-arrest skills, route finding, and solid winter mountaineering experience and judgment!  For everyone else, we recommend waiting until next year to climb. If you still choose to climb, check the avalanche advisory and wait for a solid multi-day window of good weather.  If you have questions, give us a call at 530-926-4511.