05-06-2016-Casaval Ridge

Casaval Ridge is currently in great shape and a popular early season route.  NOW is the time to climb Casaval and/or any of the ridge routes as they melt out quickly, especially as that sping sun starts blazing. Small loose wet slides off the southeast side of the ridge are common during the spring, so beware of this hazard. An avalanche beacon, shovel and probe are recommended, along with the knowledge of how to use them. Rime ice on the upper elevation rock features along the ridge will flake off on warm days. Wear a helmet, always, and beware. Casaval Ridge can get VERY windy. Your camp and climb of this route could easily be thwarted during a wind event. Even though the weather may show sun in the box, check the wind forecast if you want to increase the odds of a successful climb of Casaval Ridge. Consider camping at Horse Camp or be sure to anchor your tent very well if windy. On your climb, wind can easily knock climbers off balance and cause a fall. Immediate self-arrest is mandatory to prevent a long slide for life on the smooth and firm snow currently in place on Mt Shasta. If however, you catch this route on a windless, sunny day... you're in for a treat. Once one reaches the top of the ridge, near the base of Misery Hill, it is common for climbers to get disoriented in a "white out" and wander off of the wrong side of the mountain.  For those who want a challenging, but fun winter ascent of Mount Shasta, this route fits the bill.  This is not a route for the faint of heart, however.  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!