Sunday, June 4, 2017

Gardner Mountain 8898', Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness

Similar to Mt. Maude, Gardner Mountain has been a trip I've wanted to do for a few years but it's never been a high-enough priority to actually schedule it. When Ben randomly suggested it this week and didn't mind the long driving day it seemed like a smart choice. It'll be snow free and an even quicker trip in a few weeks. No cars at the TH in the morning or afternoon, didn't see a single person...
  • Approximately 30 blowdowns from TH to Gardner Meadows.
  • Essentially snow free to Gardner Meadows. On the climb: soft and unconsolidated snow, from 3" to 3' deep and melting fast. Easy to posthole to the ground; probably snow free in a few weeks. Used pole and axe, spikes not needed. 
First trip to the Chelan-Sawtooth for 2017

Along the Wolf Creek trail

Wolf Creek

Baby aspens on the way to Gardner Meadows

Glacier lilies in Gardner Meadows

The route up Gardner: go 3000' straight up

About halfway up Gardner; Ben's photo

Gardner Mountain summit 8898'

Chelan-Sawtooth, Wenatchee, Entiat/Glacier Peak, North Cascade ranges, from the summit of Gardner

Dome Peak, Chikamin Glacier

Bonanza and Dark Peak, Glacier Peak beyond

Gardner Mountain breccia

More breccia

Nice full halo

Cruising back down Wolf Creek; Ben's photo


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