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South Side Conditions Update
General Conditions
Climbing conditions continue to be excellent on Mount Shasta. The snow has melted from Bunny Flat trailhead and a short hike on the trail is required to reach consistent snow. Lower elevation snow is melting fast and many tracks, sun cups, and even a few rocks are showing. Smooth firm snow exists on the upper mountain. Above Lake Helen, a good boot pack ascends Avalanche Gulch towards Thumb Rock. Many climbers have been climbing around the right end of the Red Banks near the Thumb, however, it is advised to climb through one of the Red Bank's right side chutes from now on as this avoids the dangerous crevasse features of the Konwakiton.
The Casaval ridge route has melted out significantly and reports indicate that the Catwalk currently requires crossing a large section of exposed rock. This route is best done early to mid-season with ample snow coverage, this is no longer the case.
Sunrise from Lake Helen
Busy morning in Avalanche Gulch. Photo was taken from Lake Helen ~ 10,400 feet at 5:30 am on 06.23.2019
Looking up Avalanche Gulch near the Red Banks ~12,000 feet.
The ever-widening Konwakiton bergschrund around the right end of the Red Banks near the Thumb. Note: The Red Banks chutes are more favorable as this avoids the dangerous crevasse features of the Konwakiton.
Looking down Casaval Ridge from ~ 12,400 feet.
Looking up Misery Hill ~ 13,000 feet
