06-16-2016-Casaval Ridge

Casaval Ridge is still in decent shape and is a popular early season route.  NOW is the time to climb Casaval and/or any of the ridge routes as they are melting out quickly. This route is nearing mid-season conditions and will be on the way out soon. There are some sections of exposed rock that will only grow larger with more sun and warm temperatures. Small loose wet slides off the southeast side of the ridge are common during the spring/early summer, so beware of this hazard. Wear a helmet and crampons, and have your mountain axe in hand. 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!  

For your descent, many choose to descend down Avalanche Gulch and then traverse back to their camp along the ridge. This is one option however on warm days, deep, soft and unconsolidated snow can greet climbers attempting the traverse back to camp on the ridge. There is also the chance for loose-wet slides on that southeast aspect of Casaval Ridge. Eliminate this problem by camping at Horse Camp and descending Avalanche Gulch entirely. The other option is to descend the ridge the way you climbed which can be tedious and slow. Give us a call if you have questions!