Go Guide March 2010 �

The Mountaineers

www.mountaineers.org A special activities section to The Mountaineer – Also viewable via .pdf on our website March, 2010

Go Guide

Goings on across the club

New exploratioNs Now

The Mountaineers Trailhead program

is designed to be a user-friendly introduction to the

club or a new activity. These are events without major commitments, conducted in

a casual atmosphere, and best of all, easy on your schedule as well as your wallet.

Trailhead events are offered each month for a variety of activities; just look for the in

front of the event listing in the Go Guide. Typi-cal events include hikes, backpacks, entry-level scrambles and climbing activities, snowshoeing, skiing and more. In-town clinics are also offered regularly throughout the season. So if you’re look-ing to become involved with the club, taste-test a new activity, or just refresh old skills, there’s likely a Trailhead event for you!

Trip series:Hikes – So you thought that hiking is only for spring through fall? Well, guess what? There are lots of snow-free hiking options year-round with The Mountaineers. The Trailhead program will make sure you’re prepared for comfort and safety in the chilly season. Best of all, NO BUGS!Snowshoe and XC Ski Tours – Easy trips are offered throughout the season. Detailed gear and

safety information will be distributed before each event to make sure you are prepared for fun in the snow. We even have loaner snowshoes and poles! Please note that easy snow trips may translate to a somewhat more difficult venture than an easy summer hike, so be prepared for at least a little bit of a workout.

Outdoor Learning Series:Snowshoeing for Beginners – The rain has started—so, you’re feeling housebound until spring brings more sunshine? Nonsense! Get out for a fun day in the snow and explore the winter wonderland in a safe setting with experienced leaders. We’ll provide loaner snowshoes and poles; you bring eager smiles. We’ll go out on an easy and safe snowshoe tour while introducing you to winter travel and safety, as well as a cure to cabin fever in the Pacific Northwest! Cross-Country Skiing for Beginners – So, you’re intrigued by the idea of gliding gently through the woods, gawking at snowshoers as you silently drift past? But you feel the need for a good coaching session? This is the clinic for you! We’ll spend half-a-day in a casual atmosphere working on the basics of classic XC skiing on groomed trails. Ski rentals are available at REI, and a clothing/gear list will be provided.Snow Camping for Beginners – You’re already backpacking and want to break into the fourth season? Come “chill” with us at a mountain locale for the weekend and learn how to build a leave-no-trace campfire in the snow, make winter furniture,

and have more fun than a group of poofy grown-ups should be allowed. Snow camping will be covered in depth, as will emergency snow shel-ters. Folks already oriented to backpacking are perfect for this outing. A gear list will be available upon request. Camping gear can obviously be shared or rented, and most three-season back-packing gear will suffice. For more info, come to one of our Snow Camping 101 clinics in town.

Clinic Series:Snow Camping 101 – Love backpacking and miss it in the winter? Enjoy snowshoeing and skiing but want to learn some safety skills and techniques to be safe and comfy overnight in the winter? Come to this clinic and you’ll learn all you need to know to bridge the gap to winter overnights in the snow.Intro To Avalanche Awareness – Everyone who ventures into the backcountry when there is snow above or around them should know the basics of avalanche awareness. Come out for an evening focused on the basics of understanding why avalanches happen, and how to avoid them. Be safe!Trailhead Contacts: For questions about signing up, call Member Services, 206-521-6001.For questions about the Trailhead program, e-mail kenh@mountaineers.org.For questions about specific events, call the leader directly.

The Go GuideThe Mountaineers, Seattle, WA

206-521-6013 The Go Guide is a monthly supplement to The Mountaineer,

7700 Sand Point Way N.E., Seattle, WA 98115. Deadlines: All items must be submitted to the Go Guide by the 10th of the month preceding month of publication (branch/activity news gatherers must therefore obtain members’ listings a number of days prior to the 10th). Opinions expressed in articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of The Mountaineers.

Get out there!Sign up online:

www.mountaineers.orgNOTE—You may also sign up

over the phone:206-521-6001 or 1-800-573-8484

Clubwide ............................................................. 1

Bellingham (www.bellinghammountaineers.org).............. 3

Everett (www.everettmountaineers.org) .......................... 3

Foothills (www.foothillsmountaineers.org) ...................... 4

Kitsap (www.kitsapmountaineers.org) ........................... 5

Olympia (www.olympiamountaineers.org) ....................... 6

Seattle (www.seattlemountaineers.org) ......................... 8

Tacoma (www.tacomamountaineers.org) .....................13

Lodge Going (events at our facilities) ...................17

Going to the Source (who’s who) .....................19

Sending you on your way (trip registration) .....19

Go to the Marketplace .................................20

Go Volunteer ..................................................20

Gone for the Weekend (weekend trip index) .......20

Questions? Give Member Services a call:206-521-6000

Board BriefsAn unofficial summary of the Feb. 4 board meeting.

BranchwideBoard of trustees to meet

The Mountaineers Board of Trustees will meet Thu., March 4 at 7 p.m. Meetings are at club headquarters and open to all. Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month.

Find the Go Guide online!Did you know you can find the Go Guide online and often a

couple days before you find it in your mailbox?Just visit www.mountaineers.org and find the “Monthly

Magazine” link in the top menu bar. There, you will find a year’s worth of archived .pdf files containing both The Mountaineer and the Go Guide.

Snoqualmie Campus parking noticeMountaineers Snoqualmie Campus patrons should note a

change in parking procedures along SR-906 near Exit 53. The old Washington State Department of Transportation lot located across from the campus at Snoqualmie Pass has been privately owned and gated since last fall. Persons parking their vehicles in the lot without permission of the owners and a visible parking permit risk impoundment of their vehicles. Mountaineers should

not use this lot for event parking without permission from the owners. The campus remains open for reservations. Questions in regard to accommodations at the campus, including parking, should be directed to Mary Lynch, The Snoqualmie Campus operations manager, snoqualmiecampus@yahoo.com.

ConservationConservation calendarMarch �7, Wed. - Conservation Executive Committee meeting, 7-9 p.m. at club headquarters. All Mountaineers are welcome.

Wanted: members for issue alert e-listAre you willing to make a phone call, send an e-mail or write a letter to voice your opinion on conservation and environmental issues? Then sign up for our action alert e-mail list. We will send you our “Conservation Currents” twice a month or when there is a need for action. E-mail conservation@mountaineers.org to join.

International OutingsChair: Patti Polinsky, MeanySports@mac.com, 206-525-7464. The amount

payable to The Mountaineers is based upon known and anticipated air and land costs and is subject to change, either UP or DOWN, in the event of unexpected adjustments therein. Any exceptions to the travel or lodging arrangements must be approved by the leaders.

The leader(s) or The Mountaineers reserve the right to cancel a trip or to make changes in the itinerary; additional costs, if any, shall be paid by the trip participants. The right is also reserved to exclude any person as a trip member should such person’s health, mental condition, physical infirmity or general deportment impede the operation of the trip or the rights or welfare and enjoyment of other trip members; a refund of unused trip services will be the limit of liability of The Mountaineers.

Cancellation: A full refund, less a $100 administration fee and less any non-recoverable expenses, will be made. Cancellation notice must be in writing and sent to trip leader via e-mail or postal service. See the individual trip listing for cancellation deadlines.

Hike Iceland: land of fire and iceThree weeks: June 23-July 14, 2010

Iceland offers many incredible opportunities for hiking. During our three-week tour, we will encounter lava fields, deep-sided sea fjords, incredibly rich farmland, volcanoes, hot springs, geothermal areas and the world’s third largest icecap, next to those of Antarctica and Greenland.

Our visit begins with a night in a three-star hotel in the capital, Reykjavik, where we are transported after landing at the Keflavik airport. The next day, we fly (included in trip cost) northeast to Egilsstadir to begin a five-day hiking adventure across the colorful Rhyolite Mountains, then descend to narrow valleys and mountain-ringed fjords. After reaching a main road, we are transported back to Egilsstadir for the night.

Absent: Rob Simonson, Everett trustee.The Consent Agenda was approved:• Kirk Alm was appointed the board liaison of the Rec-

reational Resources Division• Abbey Norris was appointed to the Fundraising Com-

mittee• Eric Linxweiler was appointed to the Books Gover-

nance Board The board approved using the $20,000 Swanson Fund

to partially cover the legal costs of the 501c3 application process.

VP Publishing Don Heck deferred to Books Publisher Helen Cherullo who reported that Books is ahead of goal and is 20 percent over the year-to-date plan

The 20�0-20�2 board of trustees officer elections were conducted by Eric Linxweiler.

There were no floor nominations and the nominees were introduced:

• President – Tab Wilkins• President-Elect – Mona West• Secretary – Lorna Corrigan• Treasurer – Gavin Woody• Vice President Recreational Properties – Dave Claar• Vice President of Publishing – Don HeckAll candidates were unanimously elected to their posts

by the board.

Something new!Bivy Basics: Avoiding the Wet Match Ca-tastrophe. Take your Ten Essentials to where the rubber meets the road. See Seattle Hiking.

2 March 2010 Go Guide Clubwide

Heading south, we take a few short hikes as we pass many small villages on the eastern fjords en route to the vast Vatna-jokull Glacier, the largest in Europe. Here we hike in the area of the Glacial Lagoon, known as one of Iceland’s greatest natural wonders. We spend several days in the area of Vatnojokull Na-tional Park, largest in Europe, primarily in Skaftafell, an ice-free portion of the national park. We hope to ascend a panoramic peak, weather permitting.

After four days in the Vatnajokull/Skaftafell areas, we move on to the Laki area, visiting deep canyons and waterfalls en route. Here we hike the mountains of the Laki crater for the next several days, including the crossing of several rivers and the Kambar Ridge while passing by the lakes of Kambavatn and Lambavatn. The Laki fissure sits in lava fields, with arctic vegetation and strange rock formations. This is the home to Iceland’s highest mountains.

Following our four days in this area, we are transported to Thorsmork, a natural paradise of geological wonders and unique Icelandic vistas. To arrive at our hiking destination, we must use a 4x4 track over numerous glacial rivers without bridges. Our final hiking days are spent along the south coast and in the hills above, where we visit a geothermal area with bubbling clay hot pots and hot-spring pools. We can perhaps take a bath in a hot river at Reykjadalur before continuing on to the Nesjavellir geothermal plant.

Our final hiking day features the classic Golden Circle, in-cluding a visit to Thingvellir National Park, where the first open-air parliament met in the year 930, and where, geologically, the North Atlantic and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. We’ll also see Gullfoss Waterfall and Geysir Hot Spring, for which all geysers are named. Our tour ends in Reykjavik for our final two nights. On our full day in Reykjavik, before our flight home, we can tour the city or take a local bus to many nearby attractions.

Cost: Trip price is $4,250 per person and includes all ac-commodations (three nights in three-star hotels, three additional nights in twin-rooms with private facilities, six nights in twin rooms with shared facilities and eight nights in mountain huts), all meals, except during our time in Reykjavik, one Icelandic mountain guide accompanying our group during all travel pe-riods, domestic flight from Reykjavik to Egilsstadir, all ground transportation (except for our free day in Reykjavik), all gear transfers by a 4x4 Jeep (you carry only your daypack), entrance to the Blue Lagoon, leader fare, administrative costs, guide tip and outing fee. Not included are air-travel costs from Seattle to Reykjavik (estimated at $900 per person), meals and entertain-ment during the two days in Reykjavik, beverages and snacks ($150), required travel/medical insurance ($60), and entrance to the Blue Lagoon ($25). Price is based on an exchange rate of 120 ISK to $1 U.S.

Requirements: Trip is sponsored by the Seattle Branch Hiking Committee, is moderate-strenuous in character, and is limited to 16 participants. Participants must be physically able to handle the trip requirements. Sleeping bags (sleep sacks are often used in all types of Iceland accommodations due to di-minished washing needs at hotels, guesthouses, mountain huts and farm accommodations), wading shoes and a valid passport are required. Walking sticks are strongly advised. A deposit of $2,750 is required following leader approval. The remainder is due by April 1.

For more information and reservations: Contact leaders Shari Hogshead and Paul Gauthier, skimntr@aol.com, 425-957-4548, 425-260-9316 (cell). We hope you can join us on this unique and exciting adventure in Iceland this summer.

Færoe IslandsJuly 16-26, 2010

This trip offers the experience of hotel-based hiking and wildlife viewing in the Færoe Islands. We will spend 10 days hiking through some beautiful scenery as well as viewing some fabulous birding cliffs from land and sea. The leaders, Bev Dahlin and Steve Johnson, have been leading European mountain trips since 1990.

After an overnight flight to Keflavik, Iceland, we will transfer to our hotel in Reykjavik for a night before continuing on to the Færoe Islands. We will be able to explore the beautiful capital city of Iceland. From the Færoese island of Vagar, we’ll start our week in these remote islands exploring the rich bird life on Mykines on foot and by boat. This island is well known for its puffins and other seabirds.

Next will be a visit to the village of Vestmanna and a boat tour to the Vestmanna birdcliffs—sailing close along the coast and into grottoes. Hiking over the mountains to the village of Tjørnuvík, traces from the Vikings will be seen. We will bus to the northern islands through an undersea tunnel connecting Eysturoy with the Northern Islands. From the village of Hvan-nasund we take a boat to the highest promontory in the Færoes. From Tórshavn, the capital, we will boat to the island of Suduroy, where we should encounter some storm petrels.

The trip will end with us flying back to Iceland for a final night in Reykjavik. It may be possible to stop at the Blue La-goon the next day for a dip in the thermal pool on the way to the airport. Those wishing to continue discovering Europe after the Færoe Islands will be able to make arrangements before leaving Seattle.

Trip price: $3,250 per person (double occupancy). Includes: airfare from Reykjavik, Iceland, to the Færoe Islands and return, ground transportation (boats, buses and airport transfers), hotels, breakfasts, most dinners and box lunches, leader fare/transporta-tion expenses, local guides and administrative costs, outing fee and maps. Not included: round-trip airfare between Seattle and Reykjavik, Iceland ($900-$1,100), meals in Iceland and most beverages and snacks ($75 - $150), recommended trip cancel-lation insurance ($75-$150).

Requirements: Trip limit will be a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 14 Mountaineers. Sponsored by the Seattle Branch Naturalist Committee, this trip is open to all current Mountaineers. Participants must be physically able to handle the requirements of the trip. The overall trip is classified as moder-ate. There will be several small-boat excursions. No cooking gear, sleeping bags or tents will be necessary. A valid passport will be required.

Reservations and deposit: With leaders’ approval, $3,250 is necessary to reserve a space. Cancellation policy is a full refund less a $100 International Outing administration fee plus any non-recoverable expenses. Non-recoverable group expenses incurred due to cancellations will be borne by all participants. To reserve

your space, you must contact the leaders, Bev Dahlin or Steve Johnson, 206-522-0113, bevandsteve@hotmail.com.

Nepal: Dhaulagiri TrekSept. 30-Oct. 24, 2010

The Himalaya is “a revelation of all might, majesty, dominion and power, henceforth, and forever, in color, form, and substance indescribable.”

– Rudyard KiplingHimalayan trekking program: Please join us for a free

program about Himalayan trekking. In the first part, Crystal Mountain Treks owner Jwalant Gurung will show slides about trekking in Asia’s Himalayan Mountains. In the second part, Craig Miller will discuss this year’s Nepal Dhaulagiri trek listed below (space is still available). The program will be Thu., Feb. 4 at 7 p.m. at Mountaineers headquarters.

About the trip: This outing combines spectacular mountain scenery, history, culture and diversity.

Until 1808 Ecuador’s Chimborazo was believed to be the highest mountain in the world. From 1808 to 1848, Dhaulagiri was thought to be the highest mountain in the world. Between 1848 and 1852, it was Kanchenjunga. Since 1852, it has been Mt. Everest. Dhaulagiri is now the seventh highest mountain in the world at 8,167 meters (26,795 ft.).

“Dhaulagiri” means “white mountain” because of the con-tinuous snow. Dhaulagiri is almost unequaled on earth in its rise above local terrain—7,000 meters over the Kali Gandaki Gorge in about 30 kilometers of horizontal distance. The Kali Gandaki is especially dramatic since Dhaulagiri and Annapurna both stand near the river, giving a unique example of two 8,000-meter peaks facing each other over a deep valley.

In 1950, the French, led by Maurice Herzog, trekked up the Kali Gandaki intent on climbing Dhaulagiri from the west, but they found it too difficult and instead climbed Annapurna on the east (the first 8,000-meter peak to be summited). Dhaulagiri was finally summited in 1960 by a Swiss-Austrian expedition.

Our Dhaulagiri trek is one of the finest and most scenic in Nepal. Some people say this is their favorite route in Nepal. It is like the Annapurna Circuit but without the crowds. We will hike through many climatic, biologic and cultural zones; see some of the highest mountains in the world; trek from about 4,000 ft. altitude to Dhaulagiri Base Camp and over French Pass at 17,585 feet; meet friendly Nepali people; and visit Buddhist monasteries. This is a very strenuous hike because of the altitude, but porters will haul your overnight gear, so you carry only a daypack.

This is a good time of year because there is usually excellent weather for views and photography.

Itinerary: Fly from the U.S. to Singapore to Kathmandu. Tour world heritage sites. Bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Darbang. The Dhaulagiri trek (14 days) is rated very strenuous, with two layover days and a high altitude of 17,585 ft. An op-tional climb to Dhampus/Thapa Peak (19,719 ft.) will be offered. The leader will environmentally clean the trail from the high pass down to Jomsom. Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara. Sightsee in Pokhara and shop in markets. Optional extension to raft the Kali Gandaki River (not sponsored by The Mountaineers). Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Fly from Kathmandu to Singapore to USA.

For a daily itinerary, please go to www.mountaineers.org/ac-tivities/nepal_itin.html.

Lodging: Hotels in Singapore, Kathmandu and Pokhara. Camping tent on trek. Double occupancy, with optional single supplement.

Food: Most meals are provided. They are a nutritious variety of Nepali and Western cuisine. In Singapore and Kathmandu, some meals are on your own to give you the freedom to explore the delicious cuisines of Asia.

Limit: Minimum of two Mountaineers, maximum of 12 Mountaineers.

Leader: Craig Miller has led 11 different Himalayan treks in the last 11 years for The Mountaineers (craigfmiller@comcast.net or 206-285-2399).

Price: The price includes almost everything: roundtrip airfare from Seattle, Singapore hotels, Nepal visa, airport transfers, Kathmandu hotels, buses, trek permit, ACAP fee, guide, porter, food, tent, peak climbing fee, Pokhara hotels, domestic flight, Nepal departure tax, two Singapore departure taxes, rescue insurance, The Mountaineers outing fee, and a portion of leader cost. Price excludes your valid passport, medical immunizations, some meals, personal items, and gratuities. Six or more people: $5,500; 3-5 people, $6,300; two people, $6,500.

Registration: Please download and complete the application form on the web, then e-mail it to the leader. After the leader’s approval, please telephone The Mountaineers; give them your credit card number and a $2,000 deposit. After your deposit is received, the leader will send you a series of three letters with information to help you prepare for this outing. Your balance is due July 1.

Cancellation: If you cancel because of an emergency, you may receive a refund less expenses incurred, and $100 admin-istrative fee.

North American Outings

New England Fall Colors HikeOct. 3-10, 2010

Have you ever seen the spectacular colors of maples paint the landscape of New England? If you have not, join us for a moderate or strenuous hike under a canopy of fall colors in the ancient Appalachian Mountains. The brilliantly jeweled, gold and ruby ridges of the White Mountains will remain in your memory forever.

The Mountaineers Recreational Properties Division offers an eight-day adventure through the White Mountains of New Hampshire beginning Oct. 3 and concluding Oct. 10. Because we will be hiking between the full-service huts and lodges of the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC), you will not have to carry a sleeping bag or food, except for lunch. Hosted by an energetic, post-college-age staff, you will be awakened in the morning by a most gentle means—serenaded by the hut “coos.” What a lovely beginning to each morning.

Nate Shedd, an AMC naturalist who hiked with us this year,

will hike with us again. His expertise will be the crowning jewel to this hiking adventure.

If you choose to do the Presidential Traverse, most trails will be dotted with large rocks and may include short stretches of scrambling. Or you may choose moderate hiking on trails comparable to Northwest trails.

We will begin the trip from Portland, Maine, taking an AMC van through the White Mountains of New Hampshire. We will pass wooden covered bridges and whitewashed houses on our drive to Highland Center at Crawford Notch. We will hike from Crawford Notch to Franconia Notch on the Appalachian Trail.

While at Highland Center, a multitude of conditioning hikes will be available, or you can choose to play tourist and ride the train up Mt. Washington. Once on top of Mt. Washington, where the country’s highest recorded winds have been recorded, one can hike or ride the cog railroad down the other side of the mountain.

On Friday, after a short hike from Greenleaf Hut, we will take the van to Cardigan Lodge, a stately old whitewashed home in the New Hampshire Lakes Region. We guarantee you will long remember Tom Fisher, Cardigan Lodge crew chief, and those engaging ambassadors of New England’s oldest and largest ver-sion of The Mountaineers.

A trip preview will be online in February.Cost: Approx. $810 for land accommodations, including all

meals except one lunch, private bus transfer, transfers by AMC and lodging in AMC lodges and mountain huts.

Lodging: Lodges include linens and showers; huts offer bunkhouse accommodations where a sleeping sheet is needed.

Requirements: Trip limits will be a minimum of 12 and a maximum of 16—open to all Mountaineers. Participants must be able to hike trails of at least moderate difficulty. Leader’s approval necessary.

The leader, Patti Polinsky, has led numerous hiking, climb-ing and European trips for The Mountaineers. She has led five fall-colors adventures. She is also the director of the Meany Lodge Sports Center.

Reservations: A deposit of $400 per person is required to reserve a space on the trip; balance due in full by June 1. In the event of cancellation, non-recoverable group expenses incurred will be borne by the canceling participant. If cancellation is made prior to June 1, full refund will be made, less $100 plus any non-recoverable expenses. After June 1 there will be a cancellation fee of $250 plus any non-recoverable expenses.

More details: Contact the leader, Patti Polinsky, MeanySports@mac.com, 206-525-7464.

PlayersTheater inspired by a magical place

Escape to the Kitsap Forest Theater! Join us for a grand adventure as you stroll down the forested trail to our unique and breathtaking theater. Create a treasured family tradition! The Mountaineers Players are delighted to announce that the Kitsap Forest Theater will be alive with “The Sound of Music” as our 87th spring musical production. To round out our 2010 season, our summer-theater goers will enjoy the popular musi-cal, “Godspell.”

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Sound of Music” will be pre-sented May 30-31 and June 5-6, 12-13 and 19-20. When Maria proves too high-spirited for the religious life, she is dispatched to serve as governess for the seven children of a widowed naval captain. Her growing rapport with the youngsters, coupled with her generosity of spirit, gradually captures the heart of the stern captain. The family’s narrow escape from the Nazis over the mountains to Switzerland on the eve of World War II provides one of the most thrilling and inspirational finales ever presented in the theater. Famous songs include: “Climb Every Mountain,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Edelweiss,” and “My Favorite Things.” Experience the powerful retelling of this story of love and hope in the midst of war and political upheaval in Austria during the 1930s.

“Godspell” will be presented July 31, Aug. 1, 7-8, 14-15 and 21-22. Written as a jubilant celebration, “Godspell” tells the story of the birth of a new community. The play’s characters bring the parables of Matthew to life using song, dance and improvisational comedy, featuring an exhilarating score by Stephen Schwartz (“Wicked”) which includes such songs as “Day by Day,” “Save the People,” and “All Good Gifts.” Overflowing with irrepress-ible energy, this classic favorite will appeal to all with a message of hope that resonates as deeply as the music. Take a break and spend a summer day with us enjoying this inspiring story.

Auditions for both shows“The Sound of Music” - We seek actors of all ages. All

roles require singing and dancing. Auditions will be Thu., Feb. 25, in Bremerton at 7:30 p.m.; Seattle auditions are Sat., Feb. 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sun., Feb. 28, from 2 to 5 p.m. Callbacks will be Tue., March 2, in Seattle from 6 to 10 p.m. Rehearsals start March 15.

“Godspell” - We are looking for enthusiastic men, women and teens to bring this inspiring show to life on the Kitsap For-est Theater stage this summer—a perfect venue for this show! Auditions will be Thu., Feb. 25 in Bremerton at 7:30 p.m. and in Seattle on March 20, 4-5 p.m. Rehearsals will start on June 22 and continue throughout July.

Complete audition information and rehearsal schedules for both shows can be found on our website (ForestTheater.com), including a character list. To sign up for an audition, contact 206-542-7815, auditions@ForestTheater.com, with your pre-ferred time. Weeknight rehearsals are held in Seattle at The Mountaineers Program Center and weekend rehearsals are at the theater outside of Bremerton.

Help wantedWe need help with sewing costumes, building and painting

sets, collecting props, cooking, ushering, parking and working in concessions, as well as other tasks. If you are interested in being involved in any way with either or both shows, please contact co-producers Nancy Estill, 206-542-5993, nestill@u.washington.edu; and/or Gala Lindvall, 206-542-4195, gala-baskets@comcast.net. We would love to have your help! www.ForestTheater.com.

Go Guide March 2010 �Bellingham - Everett

Chair: Lorna CorriganWebsite: www.everettmountaineers.org

TO SIGN UP FOR AN EVERETT TRIP, CONTACT THE LEADER UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

(cancellation fees may apply for fee-based events and classes; contact leader)

BranchwideBranch seeks safety officer

The Everett Mountaineers is looking for a branch safety officer. The officer attends occasional club safety meetings and generally shares information that advances safety within the branch. If you’d like to volunteer, or know of a good candidate, please e-mail our branch chair, Lorna, at chair@everettmoun-taineers.org.

Next membership meeting: March 3Join us for a great potluck dinner and gear grab/exchange at

our membership meeting on Wed., March 3. If you have used or new Mountaineers stuff to sell or exchange with others, bring it. If you’re looking for a good bargain, it’s a great place to find stuff. Potluck is open-house style, so bring your favourite dish. We should have enough food amongst all of us. Informal start time is 6:30 p.m. We will hear a brief membership update and club news at 7 p.m., followed by more food, dessert and gear stuff.

Committee leaders neededWe are in need of talented volunteers to head our First Aid

Committee and our general branch programs.These positions are very rewarding, allowing the volunteer

to help organize and steer these programs into the future. Note that committee chairs generally oversee their committee and do not have to volunteer as class leaders.

The First Aid Committee encompasses MOFA, CPR, and other first-aid classes. The Programs Committee chair helps recruit speakers for the monthly meetings and procures speakers for other branch-wide events.

If you’re interested in volunteering as a leader or co-leader of the First Aid Committee, or acting as an interim volunteer, contact the branch chair, Lorna Corrigan, chair@everett-mountaineers.org. If you’re interested in heading our speaker programs, contact Evan Moses and Matt Vadnal at programs@everettmountaineers.org.

Got web savvy? The Everett Mountaineers is redesigning its website. If you have graphic or website authoring skills you can share, we would welcome the help. Please e-mail webmaster@everettmountaineers.org to find out more information.

Alpine Scrambles

Alpine Scrambling CourseThe Everett Alpine Scrambling Course is a comprehensive

course that teaches important aspects of mountain travel includ-ing navigation, compass skills, clothing and gear selection, off-trail travel, snow travel, conditioning, ice ax skills, and use of altimeter.

Alpine Scrambling involves off-trail travel to reach non-technical rock and snow summits. It does not involve technical, roped climbing. You can use the skills acquired in this course to reach hundreds of peaks in the Cascades and Olympics. This

course will also give you the skills to help you continue on to the technical climbing course if you want more challenge on exposed terrain.

MOFA (Mountain Oriented First Aid) and Navigation are required for graduation from the class. These classes occur at the same time as the scrambling class and early registration is recommended to assure you get in.

Enrollment: Enrollment for the 2010 course is open now and will continue until March 4, or until the course is full. The minimum age is 16 years old. All applicants younger than 18 will need a pre-application screening by the committee chair before they will be accepted into the course. To register, or to ask questions please contact: Craig Dixon (committee chair) at craigdixon@cascadealpinist.com , or 425-698-5045; John Lag-gart (treasurer) at: jlaggart@gmail.com , or 360- 421-3529

Course fee: The cost to enroll in the course is $165. There are additional costs for the MOFA course and for the navigation course. In addition there are expenses for ice ax, boots, pack and clothing if you do not already have these items.

Course schedule (MOFA and Navigation included for completion):

March 4, Thu. - 6:45 p.m., Orientation in classrooomMarch 6, Sat. - Navigation Field Trip (only one navigation

field trip required; choose date)March 11, Thu. - MOFA Lecture in classroomMarch 18, Thu. - 6:45 p.m., Clothing and equipment in

classrooomMarch 20-21, Sat.-Sun. - MOFA Field ExperienceApril 3, Sat. - Navigation Field Trip (only one navigation

field trip required; choose date)April 8, Thu. - 6:45 p.m., Rock scrambling, ropes in class-

roomApril 17, Sat. - Rock Field Trip at LeavenworthApril 22, Thu. - 6:45 p.m. Snow travel, ice ax in class-

roomMay 1-2, Sat.-Sun. - Snow Field Trip, Stevens PassMay 6, Thu. - Weather, Scrambling in classroomMay 15, Sat. - Scrambling Field Trip, Snoqualmie PassMay 20, Thu. - Potluck, more instruction, final exams in

classroomJune 5, Sat. - National Trails Day—volunteer!

Climbing

Intro to Leading on RockThe Everett Branch is accepting applications for the Intro-

duction to Leading on Rock Course (event ID #20303) through March 1. Late enrollment will be through March 15, if space is available. This intermediate-level course is open to Mountain-eers members from all branches. You must be a Basic Climbing Course graduate or have equivalency status and demonstrate basic climbing skills.

The course will cover rock climbing using traditional methods of removable protection as well as sport climbing, though most of the field work will be spent on traditional rock leading.

Chair: Molly Kaufmann Ph: 360-651-5006 E-mail: mollykaufmann@bellinghammountaineers.org

Website: www.bellinghammountaineers.orgTO SIGN UP FOR A BELLINGHAM TRIP, VISIT WWW.MOUNTAINEERS.ORG

UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED (Cancellation fees may apply for fee-based events and classes; contact leader)

BranchwideMarch membership meeting

Join us Tue., March 16, at 7 p.m. at the Bellingham Library, Fairhaven Branch (1117 12th St.) in the Fireside Room. (Please, not the new venue.) Our guest speaker is high-stakes, alpine, free-climbing great Will Stanhope. His long list of impressive climbs includes the first free ascent of Aguja Desmochada via

“The Sound and the Fury” (5.12, V) in Patagonia, the first clean ascent of “Blood on the Tracks” (5.12, V) Aguja Innominata in Patagonia, as well as trad routes like Ruby’s Café (5.13-) in Indian Creek, Utah, Hangdog Flyer (5.12) in Yosemite, California, and Men Holding Hands (5.12) in Squamish, British Columbia. All are welcome, members and non-members alike.

Save the date for AprilSet some time aside on Tue., April 20 at 7 p.m. at the

Bellingham Library, Fairhaven Branch (1117 12th St. ) in the Fireside Room. (Please note the new venue.) Topic will be an-nounced in the April Go Guide. All are welcome, members and non-members alike.

ClimbingAttention students: Please reference the course schedule

and keep your eye on updates to help you be successful in the course. Please remember to mark your 2010 calendar for all lectures and field trips.

Upcoming Lectures:March 6-7 (Sat. & Sun.) – Avalanche field tripMarch 17 (Wed.) – Navigation I, Option 1March 18 (Thu.) – Navigation II, Option 1March 19 (Fri.) – Navigation I, Option 2March 20 (Sat.) – Navigation II, Option 2March 23 (Tue.) – Rope Handling LectureMarch 27-28 (Sat. & Sun.) – Fundamentals Field Trip at

Pine & Cedar LakesMarch 30 (Tue.) – Rock I LectureApril 11 ( Sun.) – Rock I Field TripFor more about times and location, and for a complete sched-

ule, please see our branch website, “Courses” page.

Instructors neededAre you a basic grad from any Mountaineers climbing group,

or an intermediate student who needs credit for graduation? Don’t miss opportunities to volunteer with the Bellingham Branch. Visit our website to view our basic course schedule and fluff up your climbing resume! Contact Steve Glenn (see our “Courses” page on the website) for details and to volunteer.

Graduates will be eligible as rope leaders on basic rock climbs. Experienced basic rope leaders will have the option to proceed as basic climb leaders. The course also fulfills the rock component for graduation from the Everett Branch Mountaineers Intermediate Climbing Course.

Textbooks: “Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills,” 7th Ed.,” Mountaineers Books, “Rock Climb!” 4th Ed., John Long, Chockstone Press, and “Climbing Anchors,” 2nd Ed., John Long, Chockstone Press. You will be required to purchase copies of these textbooks for use in preparing for field trips.

Fee: $200 (must be a Mountaineers member).Enrollment will be limited to ten students. Applications may

be obtained from the class coordinator, Larry Rafferty, at larryraf-ferty@hotmail.com. More information can also be found on the Everett Mountaineers website www.everettmountaineers.org.

Course Schedule:April 3, Sat. - Lecture/FT at club headquarters—Skills As-

sessment and Sport LeadingApr. 17-18, Sat.-Sun. - Field Trip at Leavenworth (Icicle

Canyon)—Placing Pro, Anchors, Simulated LeadsMay 1-2, Sat.-Sun. - Field Trip at Vantage—Traditional/

Sport Leading Practice May 22-23, Sat.-Sun. - Field Trip at Tieton (Royal Col-

umns)—Complex Anchors/ Hanging BelaysJune 5-6 - Field Trip at Squamish, BC, or Leavenworth—

Multi-Pitch TraditionalFor more info on this module of the Intermediate Climbing

Course, contact the course coordinator, Larry Rafferty.

Basic climbsMarch �9-22, Fri.-Mon. - Tatoosh Traverse (BG) (Mt. Rainier E. USGS) Limit 4. Ski traverse of the main peaks of the Tatoosh. Three-day trip in a four-day weather window. Sign up with leader: Marcin Porwit, 206-849-8373, mkporwit@porwit.net. (s1/25-2/8)

Basic course field tripsOpen to Everett Basic Climbing Course students only; leader’s permission

required.April �7-�8, Sat.-Sun. - Leavenworth, Alphabet Rock (RG) Leader: Nicholas Mayo, 360-568-7308, nicholas.e.mayo@gmail.com. (s4/17-4/17)April �7-�8, Sat.-Sun. - Leavenworth, Bruces Boulder/Bar-neys Rubble (RG) Leader: Nicholas Mayo, 360-568-7308, nicholas.e.mayo@gmail.com. (s4/17-4/17)April �7-�8, Sat.-Sun. - Leavenworth, Clamshell Cave (RG) Leader: Nicholas Mayo, 360-568-7308, nicholas.e.mayo@gmail.com. (s4/17-4/17)April �7-�8, Sat.-Sun. - Leavenworth, Playground Point (RG) Leader: Larry Rafferty, 425-778-9685, LarryRafferty@hotmail.com. (s4/17-4/17)April �7-�8, Sat.-Sun. - Leavenworth, Roto Wall (RG) Leader: Nicholas Mayo, 360-568-7308, nicholas.e.mayo@gmail.com. (s4/17-4/17)

First Aid (MOFA)Register early

Mountaineering Oriented First Aid, first aid, and CPR courses are fast approaching, and some are already being filled. Be sure to register online for those that are available. Check out our Everett Mountaineers website under the first aid section for more details on these courses as this spring’s course dates are finalized.

HikingMarch ��, Sat. - Deception Pass State Park (E) (Deception Pass USGS) 6 mi., 300’ gain. Meet 8 a.m. at Smokey Point Food Pavillion. Sign up with leader: Penny Barker, 360-386-9261, pbarker81@hotmail.com. (s1/16-3/7)April �, Sat. - John Wayne Trail, Army West (E) 8+ mi., 500’ gain. Limit 8. Meet 6 a.m. at Ash Way P&R. 2+ hrs. Hike the relatively flat and well-graded trail to the Boylston Tunnel just E. of the old railway stop site of Boylston. The trail boasts of a variety of desert wildlife and wildflowers. We will check out the system of burrows that is home to badgers that thrive in this area. Each hiker must carry a headlamp for the hike into the tun-nel. Plan for dinning out post-hike in Ellensburg. Sign up with

4 March 2010 Go Guide Everett-Foothills

Chair: Fran Troje Ph: 425-746-6726 E-mail: foothills.branch@gmail.comWebsite: www.foothillsmountaineers.org

TO SIGN UP FOR A FOOTHILLS TRIP, COURSE OR EVENT, PLEASE VISIT WWW.MOUNTAINEERS.ORG UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED (cancellation fees may

apply for fee-based events and classes; contact leader)

leader: Bernadette Lamarca, 425-232-5751, mountain_babe@comcast.net. (s3/17-3/24)

Lookout/Trail MaintenanceCommittee meetings: The Lookout and Trail Maintenance Committee meets

on the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. (except in Nov., Dec., and Jan.) at the Snohomish County East Administration Building, 3000 Rockefeller Ave., Everett, in Public Meeting Room #1. Anyone interested in lookout or trail maintenance may attend. For more details contact Forrest Clark, 425-487-3461, lotm@everettmountaineers.org.

NavigationBasic navigation to begin March 6

The first Basic Navigation Course starts March 6, followed by the second course on April 3. Details can be found at www.mountaineers.org.

Sea KayakingSea Kayaking Committee The committee normally meets at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month.

Contact Ginger Stackpole for place and directions.Chair: Ginger Stackpole ginger.stackpole@gmail.comSecretary: position openBasic Class: Connie Campbell kayakerconnie@gmail.comEquivalency: Rob King kingster619@hotmail.comLeadership: Donna Garland mtngirl3@comcast.netSafety: Steve Stackpole steve_stackpole@yahoo.comSocial: Wendi Hale wendi@danielhale.net

Training: Connie Campbell kayakerconnie@gmail.comTreasurer: Mike Connor wikiup@hughes.netTrips: Doug Garland doug.home@comcast.netLate Breaking Trip Announcements: Some trips may not make it into the

Go Guide. We suggest searching the Online Activities page (http://imis.mountaineers.org/source/aTrips/Tripselection.cfm?section=events) for late-breaking trips.

Equivalency: If you are interested in obtaining equivalency from Mountaineers’ Sea Kayaking (Everett branch), please contact Rob King (contact information above) for an application. Equivalency usually takes 3-4 weeks to process after your application is received. In order to receive equivalency, you must have taken a fundamental sea kayaking course that teaches basics in such skills as paddling, bracing, rescues, safety and clothing or have significant experience and knowledge to demonstrate such skills. A demonstration paddle is required for applicants whose skills or experience is not clear to the equivalency team.

TripsTrips are open to all Mountaineers who have graduated from any branch

Basic Sea Kayaking Course or have been granted equivalency. Registra-tion is with the designated trip leader unless otherwise indicated. The Sea Kayaking Group follows the procedures listed in the “Sending you on your way” section of this Go Guide when signing up through club headquarters. Please contact the leader as soon as possible to cancel if you are unable to attend after signing up.

March ��, Sat. - Tow Clinic, Cornet Bay. Towing happens. No drama, no stigma, it just happens. If you paddle long enough, you’ll be at one end of the line or the other. We’ll start by look-ing at equipment and thinking it through. Then we’ll begin by practicing at a leisurely pace. We’ll work our way though several different situations, up to and including “anchor tows” in mov-ing water. Dress for the conditions, bring a hearty lunch, warm beverage and extra clothes. Each person is welcome to participate at their own level of comfort. Mike Kennedy and Carol Asplund will be our instructors. For more information, contact Donna

Garland, mtngirl3@comcast.net.

Basic Sea Kayaking Course fullThe Basic Sea Kayaking Course has reached its limit of en-

rollees. Please watch the website next winter for announcements about the 2011 course.

SinglesMarch �0, Wed. - Monthly Planning and Socializing Meeting Join us at 6:30 p.m. to dine and socialize. At 7 p.m. we will plan next month’s activities. Meet at Silver Lake Alfy’s on Hwy. 527 in S. Everett. Get half-price pizza when you mention you are attending The Mountaineers meeting. Leader: Barb Mark, bam.mark1@verizon.net. Co-leader: Doris Hatton, 360-657-4586, hikerchick@verizon.net.March ��, Sat. - Deception Pass State Park (E) 6-8 miles, minimal gain, but ups and downs. We’ll visit the beaches and viewpoints. Meet at 8 a.m. at Old Smokey Point Food Pavil-lion. To sign up contact leader: Penny Barker, 360-386-9261, pbarker81@hotmail.com.April �6-�8, Fri.-Sun. - Olympic Beach Cleanup. Join hun-dreds of volunteers removing marine debris from the beaches while enjoying this wild and remote section of Washington’s coast. We will be cleaning up the section of beach from Rialto to Hole-in-the-Wall. Camping is free for the weekend at Mora CG and if you are not interested in camping, the leader can provide information on local motels and cabins for rent for the weekend. Sign up with the leader: Penny Barker, 360-386-9261, pbarker81@hotmail.com.

BranchwideMessage from the chair

Unless our mantra of “think snow” will sway those blizzards that recently dumped on the “other Washington” to move West, it appears our winter activity is winding down.But many thanks are due Gerry Haugen and Jerry White for co-chairing the Foothills backcountry ski program. Thanks also are due for a great group of committees and leaders. A column dedicated to their efforts is coming in next issue of the Go Guide.

The Foothills Winter Program Committee recently issued a grant to the Snoqualmie Campus for the purchase of demo snowshoes that are to be used for a Campus Snowshoe Experi-ence program. By renting snowshoes to members and the public for walks on designated snow trails at the campus, folks have an opportunity to see if snowshoeing is a sport they might like to pursue.

One happy participant reported, “This sure beats demo-ing them in stores.” While neither a class nor a course, it is a great outdoor experience, walking on those big, flat feet.

Our hiking activity is beginning to gear up, thanks to Chris Caviezel, Hiking Committee chair. Go to the website to view upcoming trips and visit it more often as spring inches nearer and nearer.

Volunteer opportunity: Foothills Branch is currently recruiting a volunteer to be the branch safety officer. Go to our website, www.foothillsmountaineers.org, and toggle down to “branch safety officer” for a link to the full description and responsibilities of the position.

Please apply and/or direct inquiries to foothills.branch@gmail.com. Write “safety officer” in the subject line.

– Fran Troje, Foothills Branch chair

Branch members’ meeting: March 31 The next Foothills Branch membership meeting will be

Olympia

The Foothills Branch of the Mountaineer's & Bellevue Parks present:

Eastside Swing, Latin & Boogie--A Rockin’ Swing, Latin, Waltz and Ballroom Mixed Dance—

The Third Friday of each MonthSep.18, Oct. 23, Nov. 20, Dec. 18, Jan. 15, Feb. 19, Mar. 19, Apr. 16

South Bellevue Community 7:30-8:30 pm: Dance Lesson

Center (SBCC), 14509 SE with Ari Levitt (Level: Beg/Int)

Newport Way, Bellevue, WA 8:30-11:00 pm: Dance to a

wonderful mix of Swing, Waltz, Latin,

Ballroom, Blues, and more, spun by the

fabulous Dr. Dance himself.

Cost: $10.00 (cash payable at door)

For more information on this and other Eastside dances or classes, go to: www.rolluptherug.comGreat Eastside location just off 1-90!! Beautiful wooden dance floor!! Fantastic dance music!!

March 19 March 19

held on Wed., Mar. 31, at 7 p.m. The featured program was not confirmed at press time.

Watch the website for details, opening time, location, and program.

Whitewater rafting on the SkyMay 22, Sat. - Whitewater Rafting High excitement is assured on a whitewater rafting trip set for Sat., May 22, on the Sky-komish River. Join Bob Seana and rafting enthusiasts for a run on some big whitewater. An all-day event with lunch provided on the river, the fee will be $95, which covers helmets and life vests. Wetsuits or dry-suits are required. Wetsuit rentals are $10. Register by calling the leader, Bob Seana, 425-222-6311. He will answer all questions in regard to meeting time and other details about this fun, exciting, social outing. This is your chance to ride the very big waves of Boulder Drop with professional river guides.

Backcountry Skiing

Glacier travel seminarFor the competent backcountry skier or snowboarder who

wants to learn safe travel on glaciers and to perform crevasse rescues, the Glacier Travel Course includes four workshops and an overnight field trip at Mt. Rainier.

Students get hands-on practice with roped travel and crevasse rescues. Course includes instruction on route-finding, travel-ing and camping on glaciers, belaying, prusiking and crevasse rescue systems.

Course schedule: March 30 - Intro, Glacier Travel and Equipment April 6 - Knots and Belaying Workshop April 13 - Knots, Belaying and Prusiking Workshop April 20 - Crevasse Rescue Systems Workshop

April 24 and 25 - Field Trip at Mt. Rainier Course fee: $135 (Mountaineers members only) Enrollment is limited to 25 studentsFor details about the Glacier Travel Course, contact Darryl

Olson, 425-226-3041, darryl.olson@gmail.com, or visit www.foothillsmountaineers.org/winter.

TripsMarch ��, Sat. - Mazama Ridge, M2 Route (Mt Rainier E. 270-GT) 6 mi., 1800’ gain. Limit 10. Meet at MRNP Paradise RS. This is a good introductory tour into the backcountry and if the sun is shining, we will have beautiful views of the mountain and the Tatoosh. Contact leader for required equipment and other details. Leader: Virginia Thomas, 206-612-6099, virginia@hel-loknitty.com. (s2/7-3/11)March �4, Sun. - Crystal Mtn. Backcountry M2 Route (Bump-ing Lake-27-GT) 10 mi., 5000’ gain. Limit 8. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at plaza just south of ticket windows. Leader’s Choice of destina-tions depending on conditions, so exact mileage and elevation gain may vary. Intermediate or better skiing or boarding level expected. Leader: Richard Lambe, 206-232-4965, dicklambe@hotmail.com. (s3/1-3/12)March �9, Fri. - Beyond Lost Lake (Snoqualmie Pass 207-GT) 13 mi., 1000’ gain. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at Preston P&R, Exit 22 off I-90. 3/4 hr. Tour up to Lost Lake on a low snow-machine day. See if the lake is frozen over. Driver needs Sno-Park permit. Leader: Fletcher Richardson, 425-432-0450, backcountryfletcher@comcast.net. (s3/1-3/17)March �9, Fri. - Crystal Mtn Backcountry M2 Route (Bumping Lake 271-GT) 10 mi., 5000’ gain. Limit 6. Meet 8 a.m. at the chapel. Leader’s choice of destinations depending on conditions, so exact mileage and elevation gain may vary. Leader: James Greenleaf, 425-292-9110, greenleaf.ja@gmail.com. (s3/8-3/17)March 20, Sat. - Tatoosh Slopes (Mt Rainier E.-270-GT) 5 mi., up to 5000’ gain. Limit 6. Meet 8:30 a.m. at Longmire parking lot. 2 hrs. A classic trip. If conditions warrant, we may make multiple runs with up to 5,000’ elevation gain and a destination of Lane/Danman saddle for some good skiing. The destination is dependent on weather and avalanche conditions. Leader: Charles MacLaren, 206-501-0929, cmaclaren@msn.com. (s2/9-3/18)March 2�, Sun. - Crystal Mtn. Backcountry M2 Route (Bumping Lake-271-GT) 10 mi., 5000’ gain. Limit 8. Meet 6 a.m. at S. Renton P&R. 2 hrs. Leader’s Choice of destinations depending on conditions, so exact mileage and elevation gain may vary. Leader: Randy Oakley, 425-736-6493, randyoa@microsoft.com. (s2/28-3/19)March 27, Sat. - Snow Lake, Alpental (Snoqualmie Pass USGS) 5 mi., 1450’ gain. Limit 5. Meet 8 a.m. at Alpental upper lot. 1 hr. Destination is Snow Lake, depending on snow and avalanche conditions. This is a scenic introductory tour in the Alpental backcountry. Routes are described in “Backcountry Skiing Sno-qualmie Pass,” by Martin Volken. If conditions dictate we will go to Pineapple Pass instead and proceed to ski everything in sight. Backup date for this trip in 3/28. Leader: Charles Cerveny, 206-525-6060, ccerveny@earthlink.net. (s3/1-3/25)

OutingsMarch 6-�4, Sat.-Sun. - British Columbia’s Purcell Moun-tains: Jumbo Pass Cabin The Purcell Range receives cold, dry, powder snow. Jumbo Pass Cabin sits at 7710’ and has great views. The small hut has a wood-heated stove, gasoline lantern, propane cook stove, equipped kitchen, bunk beds with foam mattress pads for six people, and an outhouse. Terrain includes alpine bowls, peak ascents and great tree skiing. March 6: drive to Radium and sleep at the hostel. March 7: snowmobile in and ski up 2210’ to Jumbo Pass Cabin. March 8-12: ski alpine powder bowls and subalpine tree glades. March 13: ski out and soak in Radium Hot Springs. March 14: drive home. Price includes Radium hostel, snowmobile in, Jumbo Pass Cabin, and Radium Hot Springs. To register, please mail a U.S. $400 check to The Mountaineers with “Jumbo Pass Cabin” written on the bottom by Dec. 1. Limit 6. Leader: Craig Miller, craigfmiller@comcast.net, or 206-285-2399. Sign up with leader. Leader: Craig Miller, 206-285-2399, craigfmiller@comcast.net. (s10/1-2/27)April 2�-27, Fri.-Tue. - Wedge/Currie Traverse (M3G) Limit 6. This is a 44km ski traverse, with a gain of 2290m, through northern Garibaldi Park in British Columbia. See John Baldwin's excellent book, "Exploring the Coast Mountains on Skis," for details about the traverse. Participants should possess prior experience on multi-day trips and competent backcountry ski abilities, as well as current crevasse-rescue skills, either through

Go Guide March 2010 5

Chair: Katha Miller-Winder E-mail: branch@kitsapcabin.org

Website: www.kitsapmountaineers.org3000 Seabeck Highway, Bremerton

TO SIGN UP FOR A KITSAP TRIP, CONTACT THE LEADER (cancellation fees may apply for fee-based events and classes;

contact leader)

Foothills-Kitsap

the climbing or glacier ski programs. Leader’s permission re-quired. Our goal is to try and get near Hibachi Ridge by the end of Day 2, and spend most of Day 3 getting in some descents, potentially including Mt Currie. For more information, contact the leader: Steve Brain, steven.f.brain@gmail.com, 206-407-9928. (s2/15-4/9)

Hiking/BackpackingThe Hiking/Backpacking Committee provides hiking opportunities for all

Foothills Committees, including but not limited to hiking, singles, family activities and naturalists.

Volunteers needed! Want to help? We need volunteers to assist with trip scheduling, lead hikes and participate in new-hiker-orientation meetings.

Hiking Committee - Next committee meeting is Mon., March 15, at 7 p.m. at the Lake Hills Library. For more info, contact Chris, caviezel@gmail.com.

PCT Series CourseThe Foothills Branch of The Mountaineers has launched a

new course, the Pacific Crest Trail Series. The objective of the program is to introduce Mountaineers members to sections of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) they may not otherwise get to hike. The section from Green Pass to Stampede Pass, particularly, is significantly under-used and in need of conservation efforts.

Program participants will have access to a series of day hikes throughout the hiking season, starting in mid-July. In many cases these will be point-to-point hikes. In some cases a backpack may be involved, or an overnight stay at a lodge such as The Mountaineers Meany Lodge.

Program participants will have first choice on hikes offered. However, all Mountaineers members and guests will have access to any available slots up to 10 days in advance.

Program participants will receive awards based on unique miles hiked on the PCT in Washington State. The awards are expected to be in 75-mile increments. It is likely that people will be able to garner only the first award in the first year. Additional awards are likely to require a multi-year commitment. Only hikes taken on a PCT Series hike are eligible for an award.

Program participants should be able to comfortably hike 15 miles with about 3000’ elevation gain by mid-July. Actual hike distances and elevation gains will vary. It is expected that some hikes may be as long as 22 miles.

More information on the PCT Series is being developed and registrations are expected to occur in the spring. Point of

contact for the PCT Series is Monty Pratt, westseattle207@yahoo.com.

Backpacks, eventsSee the activity search section of The Mountaineers website to view a list of

backpacks as they are offered. Indicates Trailhead event. See pg. 1 for details about Trailhead.March �8, Thu. - Backpacking Basics Bridge the gap be-

tween day trips and truly experiencing the wilderness overnight. Tips on gear and technique to spend a comfy night in mountains. Learn what works best in particular situations and what is spe-cifically applicable to Pacific Northwest backpacking. Guests or members who need assistance with signing up should contact the coordinator: Ken Hahn, kenh@mountaineers.org, 206-595-7237. Event fees: $10 members, $15 non-members.

PhotographyChair: Dane Williams, willida2@hotmail.com. Please e-mail if you have

questions.Meeting: The next meeting of the Photo Group will be

Mon., March 8, at 7 p.m. at the Highland Community Center, 14224 N.E. Bell-Red Rd., Bellevue. The theme for March is “sunrise/sunset.” So, bring a sunrise or sunset picture or any other that you want to show. Later this year our themes will be flowers, mountain scenes, highland lakes and close-ups. So you can plan ahead. At this meeting we will discuss some facets of composition.

We will also critique pictures for those who wish. This is an opportunity for you to find out how you can make improvements to your pictures.

Sea Kayaking

Level 1 Sea Kayak CourseFoothills Branch is partnering with the Cascade Canoe and

Kayak Center in Renton to offer a Level 1 (basic) Sea Kayaking Course for Mountaineers members and the general public. With a limited class size of eight students, it is a concentrated, intensive course covering all topics and completing all requirements of the other branch courses for graduation status.

The course is designed to complete all classroom topics with special emphasis on extra on-water instruction. The course con-sists of three 3-hour sessions and one 9-hour, instructor-guided saltwater kayaking trip. The first hour of each 3-hour session will be classroom theory and the remaining two hours will be on-water instruction.

All the topics in the Seattle Branch course syllabus will be covered. Students must successfully complete a 50-yard swim, all classroom sessions, on-water sessions and demonstrate competence in paddling skills, including self rescue and as-sisted rescue.

This course prepares students for participating in two in-structor-guided saltwater day-trips, required to graduate, for Mountaineers members who want to qualify for Mountaineers-sponsored trips upon graduation.

Schedule: April 5, Mon., Classroom: 6-7 p.m.; on-water 7-9 p.m.April 6, Tue., Classroom: 6-7 p.m.; on-water 7-9 p.m.April 7, Wed., Classroom: 6-7 p.m.; on-water 7-9 p.m.April 10, Sat., Saltwater paddle; 8 a.m.-5 p.m.Mon., May 3, Classroom: 6 -7 p.m.; on-water 7-9 p.m.May 4, Tue., Classroom: 6 -7 p.m.; on-water 7-9 p.m.May 5, Wed., Classroom: 6-7 p.m.; on-water 7-9 p.m.May 8, Sat., Saltwater paddle; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. The classroom and on-water sessions will be held at the Cas-

cade Canoe and Kayak Center located in Renton with shoreline access to Lake Washington for the on-water instruction.

Course fee: $195. The additional cost for the two-instructor guided, saltwater day-trips is determined by trip destination and is not available at time of enrollment. Dry-suits are required for all sessions. Students bringing their own boat and equipment must have it inspected and approved by the instructor to assure seaworthiness. A rental package is available that includes the course, boat, gear and dry-suit—all for $265. Transportation for the saltwater paddle is provided and included in the course fee.

Instruction starts as soon as the van is loaded with gear. It ends only when the gear is entirely unloaded at the end of the day. We will enjoy an intensive but fun day of instruction.

Registration: All registration is by phone interview and all students are required to sign a waiver. More information is posted on our website: www.foothillsmountaineers.org. Ques-tions, refunds and cancellation policy, etc., can be answered during the phone interview process. Registration is now open. Call 425-430-0111.

BranchwideBranch officersChair: Katha Miller-WinderVice Chair: Mike Raymond Treasurer: Dianne MooreSecretary: Sue DiesenBoard of Trustees Rep: Jimmy James Branch Trustee at Large: Greg Thies Branch Trustee at Large: Tom Thrasher

Meetings, featured programsOn a quarterly basis the Kitsap Mountaineers and their friends

get together at 7 p.m. for a social time and a feature program. Our next meeting will be in April. Watch for details as the date approaches.

Executive Committee meetings are held at Kitsap Cabin on the last Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Members are welcome to attend and observe.

Mountaineers logo clothing available We offer vests, $22, and t-shirts, $15, as well as baseball-

style caps in olive green with a black under-bill for $12. We have recently added logo-adorned whistles of metal. They come in blue and cost $1. To purchase any of these items, send an e-mail to branch@kitsapcabin.org.

Volunteer alert!Kitsap Branch has a number of opportunities available for

our members to help keep the branch functioning. There are volunteer opportunities that directly benefit the Kitsap Branch and opportunities that benefit the wider outdoor community.

Some volunteer opportunities require a substantial invest-ment of time, some require only a few hours. Opportunities can be as simple as providing cookies for a general meeting to as detailed as bringing to life one of the programs waiting to be started. Whatever your skills and abilities, however much time you have to spend, there is a job you can do to help.

A list of opportunities is available on the website and one is posted on the bulletin board on the front door of Kitsap Cabin. To volunteer, send an e-mail to branch@kitsapcabin.org.

Social event added to calendarThe Kitsap Branch has added something new to its calendar

of activities. Last month we inaugurated a monthly social event. These events will include such things as game nights, potlucks, movie nights and similar endeavors. We plan to host them in

different parts of the county. Join us in the north end on Thu., March 11 for our next social. Details were not final at press time, so please see the website for details.

Climbing/Alpine ScrambleChair: Mike Raymond, 360-437-9379, mike-elaine@msn.com.

Basic Climbing CourseCourse schedule

March �0, Wed., 6:30 p.m. - Snow class session. Avalanche awareness and snow climbing techniques.

March �5, Mon., 6 p.m. - Climber’s meeting. Guests and friends welcome. Information about our climbing courses and discussion of future climbs. Input for climbs welcome. Azteca, Silverdale. Other branch members welcome, too.

March 20-2�, Sat.-Sun. - Snow 1 Field Trip, Mt. Rainier National Park, Paradise Park. Carpool from Kitsap Cabin, 6 a.m. Sat. Please group up to conserve fuel and vehicles at the Paradise area. Priority given to Kitsap basic course students and Kitsap intermediates and leaders. Registration will open to Kitsap climbers two weeks ahead of those from other branches. Climb leaders will expect personal communication for registration on all climbs. Please call them if you are interested. For major climbs such as this, plan on attending a pre-climb meeting with the leader. Place and time will be made available through the climb leader.

June �2-��, Sat.-Sun. - Ingalls Peak, Basic Rock. One climb each day. Three leaders, three students for each climb.

June �8-2�, Fri.-Mon. - Mt. Rainier, Emmons Glacier, Basic Glacier. Four leaders, eight students.

June 26-27, Sat.-Sun. - Mt. Baker, Easton Glacier. Basic Glacier. Four leaders, eight students.

July 24-25. Sat.-Sun. - S. Early Winters Spire, Washington Pass. Basic Rock. One climb each day. Three leaders, three students for each climb.

July �0-Aug. 2, Fri.-Mon. - Mt. Rainier, Disappointment Cleaver Route. Basic Glacier. Four leaders, eight students.

Sept. 4-5, Sat.-Sun. - The Tooth, Snoqualmie Pass area. Basic Rock. One climb each day. Three leaders, three students for each climb.

Club climbsSign up for these climbs on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration will

open to Kitsap climbers two weeks ahead of those from other branches.

Those signing up have to directly contact the climb leader. Prior experience and/or climbing course status is required.

Mid-July - Mt. Olympus, Olympic National Park Glacier. 4-5 days.Mid-July - Mt. Anderson, Olympic National Park Glacier. 4 days.Late July - Mt. Clark, Royal Basin, Olympic National Park Rock. 2-3 days.Mid-August - Other climbs scheduled through climber’s meet-ing input and requests.

Alpine ScramblingKitsap alpine scrambling emphasizes non-technical climbs in the Olympic

Range. Many scrambles are described in the “Climber’s Guide to the Olympic Mountains,” by Olympic Mountain Rescue. Ten Essentials, ice ax, mountaineering boots and helmet are always required.

ScramblesSee the website for a current list of scrambles.

Family ActivitiesMarch 26-28, Fri.-Sun. - Spring Break Backpack: Olympic Hot Springs (Optional Boulder Lake snowshoe) (E) (GT Mt. Olympus, Lake Crescent-Happy Lake Ridge) 4.8 mi. 400’ gain. The trail wanders up and down along an abandoned road while crossing three creeks to get to the campground in an old-growth forest setting. Natural hot springs close to the CG. Earn that hot springs bath with next day optional snow travel to Boulder Lake (6.8 mi, 2200’ gain), an alpine lake under the brow of Boulder Peak. Ice ax encouraged for Boulder Lake approach. Sign up online or at meetup.com, Kitsap Outdoors. Meet 9 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene. Leader: Doug Terry, 360-550-7911, doug@dougterry.net (s3/1-3/25) DHOP, 92April �-�, Thu.-Sat. - Spring Break: Fort Flagler/Marrow-stone Island This state park, an old military defense base, has everything to offer: easy hiking, mountain and road biking, kayaking, beachcombing, campfire camaraderie, and fast access to hiking trails in the Olympics. Spend spring break in the Rain Shadow of Washington. Park spots are filled on a first-come, first served basis. Sign up online or at meetup.com, Kitsap Outdoors. Depart 10 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene. Leader: Doug Terry, 360-550-7911. (s3/15-3/31)

First AidMOFA Course: April �6-�8—The Kitsap Branch offers

Mountaineering Oriented First Aid twice a year. Course fee for members is $70, for non-members, $95. Everyone registering for the course must have a valid CPR card. CPR cards can be obtained through any of the local fire departments, often for free. The schedule is Fri., 6-10 p.m., Sat., 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Register online. For more information, contact MOFA Chair Jimmy James, f.e.jimmy.james@gmail.com, 360-731- 4282, 360-297-2256.

HARK (Hiking and Active Recreation for Kids)

Chair: Laura Rightmyer lrightmyer@q.com March ��-�4, Sat.-Sun. - Copper Creek Hut Leave early Sat-urday morning and get home Sunday afternoon or early evening. Snowshoe in about 3 mi., using sleds to pull our overnight gear. Stay overnight in a pleasant, heated cabin where we will cook dinner and play board games. Hopefully there will be enough snow to snowshoe up; otherwise we will be walking, carrying our packs part of the way. At the hut there is an outhouse with one of the world’s most beautiful views—you’ll have to see

6 March 2010 Go Guide Kitsap-Olympia

for yourself what it is! Space limited. Bring winter clothes and boots—snowshoes provided and some clothing items available for loan. No fees and meals provided, but bring snacks that you may like. Contact the chair, Laura (information above) for more details and to register.March �9, Fri. - Vertical World Wall Climbing Our popular monthly Vertical World indoor climbing event, 6:30-9 p.m. No experience needed, no fees and gear is provided. Families are welcome to watch. Contact the chair, Laura (see above), for more information.

Hike/Backpack/SnowshoeChair: John Howard

Open house: March 25 The Kitsap Branch Hike Committee will present an open

house at the Kitsap Cabin from 6 to 9:30 p.m. on Thu., March 25. An informal presentation on hiking in the Northwest will be offered for those who are curious about hiking, backpacking or The Mountaineers in general. We will offer gear demonstra-tions and answer any questions that may arise, including those about becoming a hike leader. If you have gear to sell, bring it. We will hold a small gear swap. Snacks and refreshments will be available.

Conditioner SeriesKitsap Branch will be offering two conditioner series of hikes

for the calendar year 2010. The first conditioner series, Basic Conditioner Hikes, is slated for those who are just starting to get back into shape and really want to start hiking.

The goal of this conditioner series will be to start on some easy hikes with the intent of progressing toward some moderate hikes by mid-summer. Kitsap will offer 1-2 hikes each month in support of this hike series.

In addition, Kitsap Branch will offer a second conditioner series, Alpinist Conditioner Hikes, which is geared towards al-pinists—those interested in trying to get in shape for scrambles and climbs in the later part of the year. Most of these hikes will be strenuous with the idea of obtaining some distance and elevation. Kitsap will offer 1-2 hikes each month in support of this hike series as well.

The goal of both these conditioner series is to motivate people to get out more, improve their stamina and establish some camaraderie with persons of similar goals. Kitsap will generate a listing of the hikes for both of these conditioner series which will be provided on the kitsapmountaineers.org website, and will be listed and updated each month. There is no fee for signing up for these hike series.

Basic Conditioner HikesMarch 27, Sat. - Lena Lake #8�0 (M) (USGS The Brothers) 6.4 mi, 1150’ gain. This is a moderate climb through old- and second-growth forest via long, flat switchbacks, passing huge boulders along the way. We will reach the Chapel Rock picnic point with its splendid views along the lake. Snowshoes or micro-spikes are encouraged, for snow may be encountered. This is the fourth in a series of conditioning hikes to get in practice for more strenuous hikes later in the year. This hike is open to everyone. New members are welcome. Please sign up via the internet. Dress appropriately—no cotton. Meet at Bremerton National Airport at 8 a.m. Leader: Dianne Moore, 253-857-3030, diamor2005@msn.com. (s3/1-3/26) DHOP 11 or OM 96

Alpinist Conditioner HikesMarch 6, Sat. - Mt. Muller Trail #882 (S) (USGS Mt. Muller, Snider Peak) 12.8 mi. loop, 3150’ gain. This is the third hike in the alpinist conditioning series. From a lush, temperate, forest valley, the trail climbs 2200’ feet in 3 mi. to Snider Ridge. The trail on the ridge offers spectacular views of Mt. Olympus, Lake Crescent, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and the Sol Duc Valley be-low. Please sign up online. Meet at 7:30 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene. Mark Thibault, 360-860-1037, mark.a.thibault@gmail.com. (s2/15-3/5) HONP, 31March ��, Sat. - Trail Run on Kloshe Nanitch Trail #882 (S) (USGS Snider Peak) 10-14 mi., 2100’ gain. This is the third trail run in a series of monthly, strenuous, trail-run conditioners offered by the Kitsap Branch. A great run to the Kloshe Nanitch Lookout and along Snider Ridge to Jim’s Junction. Kloshe Na-nitch Lookout provides spectacular views of the Sol Duc Valley, Mt. Olympus and Lake Crescent. Total mileage can be adjusted

to the group’s desires. Meet at 7:30 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene. Contact leader to sign up: Mark Thibault, 360-860-1037, mark.a.thibault@gmail.com. (s2/15-3/12)

Hikes Be sure to check the www.kitsapmountaineers.org website for an up-to-date

list of current hikes.March �, Wed. - Mt Zion (E) (GT Tyler Peak, CC Buckhorn Wilderness) 3.6 mi., 1350’ gain. Hiking to the summit of Mt. Zion, the trail ascends through remnants of long-ago fires, sec-ond-growth fir and cedar, blooming rhododendrons in spring, Oregon grape, salal and leafy ferns. The top offer views of Puget Sound, Mt. Baker, Mt. Rainier and the Cascades. Sign up online or at meetup.com, Kitsap Outdoors. Meet 9 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene. Leader: Doug Terry, 360-550-7911, doug@dougterry.net. (s2/15-3/2) DHOP 61March �0, Wed. - Mt. Walker S. Lookout (M) (USGS Mt. Walker) 7 mi. 2000’ gain. A winding uphill hike with occasional peek-a-boo views of Hood Canal, topped off with view of the entire canal from the N. and S. lookouts. Great views of the in-terior peaks from the N. lookout. Returning hike via closed road. Parking is at the locked gate at Hwy 101 in the winter. Sign up online or at meetup.com, Kitsap Outdoors. Meet 9 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene. Leader: Doug Terry, 360-550-7911, doug@dougterry.net. (s2/15-3/9) OPDH 18 or OM 79March ��, Sat. - Marys Falls Camp (VS) (USGS Mt. Angeles) 17.8 mi. 1625’ + gain. Limit 8. A long invigorating hike along the pristine Elwha Trail from Whiskey Bend to Marys Falls Camp, with plenty of elevation gain both ways over Difficulty Hill between Lillian Camp and Marys Falls Camp. Pace will be brisk, at over 2.5 mph due to the distance to be covered. USGS Mt. Angeles. Meet at 9:15 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Naza-rene. Sign up online. Leader: Greg Thies, mtngreg@msn.com, 360-710-5308. (s2/15-3/12) OM 10March �7, Wed. - Lena Lake #8�0 (M) (USGS The Brothers) 6.4 mi. 1150’ gain. A wandering hike through second-growth and old-growth forest while crossing bubbling or invisible creeks. We will have lunch above a beautiful 55-acre lake. Sign up online or at meetup.com, Kitsap Outdoors. Meet 9 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene. Leader: Doug Terry, 360-550-7911, doug@dougterry.net. DHOP, 11 or OM, 96

Snowshoe March �4, Sun .- Heather Park (VS) (USGS Mt. Angeles; CC Hurricane Ridge; GT Mt. Olympus, Mt. Angeles) 8.2 mi. 3500’ gain. The trail starts through thick understory, climbing steeply at times, easing up momentarily at Halfway Rock before launching into more switchbacks. Trail levels out at a small basin at about 5300’ and tucked between First and Second Tops. This trip of-fers views of the craggy country in and around Mt Angeles and Klahhane Ridge. Hard to say at what elevation snowshoes or traction will be required. Be sure to bring them. Sign up online or at meetup.com, Kitsap Outdoors. Meet 9 a.m. at Poulsbo Church of the Nazarene. Leader: Doug Terry, 360-550-7911, doug@dougterry.net. DHOP, 80

PhotographyChair: John Davis jmdbwd@wavecable.com

Do you have great pictures of your last hike? Was the view from that summit unbelievable? Have you shown people how much fun you have on your outings? The Photography Committee wants to help. Send a few of your best photos to John Davis and he’ll have them posted on the website for everyone to enjoy.

SeaKayakingSea Kayak CommitteeChair: Diane Hamerman, dhamerman@comcast.netVice-chair: Volunteer neededTreasurer: Rich Weixler, Weixler@wavecable.comBasic Course Training: Violette Fitzgearald, violettefitzgerald@msn.com Or 360-377-9670 Equivalency: Dan Montgomery, djmontg@gmail.comSecretary: Volunteer neededPool Sessions: Derek Zimmer, derek.w.zimmer@gmail.com Meetings are for socializing, having fun with fellow paddlers and planning. If

interested in attending, contact Diane Hamerman, 360-782-1412, dhamer-man@comcast.net, for details. Everyone is welcome to attend.

TripsOur trips are listed on the activities page of The Mountaineers website and also

announced by e-mail to Kitsap members. If you would like to be included on

our e-mail list, let Diane Hamerman know at dhamerman@comcast.net. To sign up for a trip you must contact the leader listed in the trip description. To participate in Mountaineers-sponsored kayak trips, you must be a graduate of The Mountaineers Basic Sea Kayak Course (from any branch) or have passed equivalency (see below).

Equivalency: Mountaineers members who have kayak training and paddling experience, yet have not completed a Mountaineers Basic Sea Kayaking Course, may apply for equivalency. Contact Dan Montgomery, djmontg@gmail.com, for details. You should have taken a fundamental sea kayak course that teaches the basic skills, strokes, bracing, rescues, safety and clothing, and be able to demonstrate your skills and abilities. There is a $20 processing fee.

Basic Sea Kayaking CourseWould you like to learn to sea kayak? How often have you

watched others paddling on Puget Sound and said to yourself, “That looks like fun. I should try it.” Well, here is your chance. The Kitsap Mountaineers is offering a Basic Sea Kayaking Course right here in Kitsap County. After completion of the course you will be qualified to join in any Mountaineer SKII (skill level II) sea kayak trip, offered by any branch.

The goal of the course is to give students a firm foundation on which to build their skills. Whether you are interested in calm-water touring or rough-water play, this course will give you a great start toward meeting your goals. Among the topics the course will address are: boats, gear, navigation, tides and currents, and weather. Self and assisted rescues will be taught and practiced both at a pool session and on the open water. Boat handling and various strokes will also be taught.

Enrollment process: No prior sea kayaking experience is required to participate in this course, but you must be a member of The Mountaineers to participate. Contact Violette Fitzgerald, violettefitzgerald@msn.com, 360-377-9670, for more informa-tion and to request registration materials.

Course structure: The course consists of three classroom sessions, one pool session, and two open saltwater training ses-sions. Attendance is required at all sessions (we are not able to offer make-up sessions) and you must also complete one club-sponsored paddle on open saltwater of at least 7 mi. by Sept. 30. Any other branch student paddle will qualify, but you must have the leader contact the basic course coordinator for verification of completion. Please be sure that your schedule will allow you to complete all the sessions before signing up for the course.

Course schedule:Thu., April 29, 7-10 p.m. Classroom InstructionSat., May 1, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Pool SessionMon., May 3, 7-10 p.m. Classroom InstructionThu., May 6, 7-10 p.m. Classroom InstructionSat., May 8, 8:30 - 4 p.m. Open-water TrainingSun., May 9, 8:30 - 4 p.m. Open-water TrainingAll classroom instruction will be held at the Manchester

Library. The pool session will be held at South Kitsap Pool in Port Or-

chard. Kayaks and gear for the pool session will be provided. Both days of open saltwater training will be at Manchester

State Park in Manchester. Kayaks and gear are not provided for the open-water training and dry-suits are required. It will be the student’s responsibility to provide an approved kayak and gear for open-water activities (no doubles allowed, only singles with approved flotation). However, kayak and dry-suit rentals can be arranged, at additional cost, for those students who do not have their own. Students will also be required to provide their own approved kayak and gear for the one required student paddle.

Course fees: The price for the course is $175, which includes a kayak and equipment only for the pool session. Additional costs will include renting a boat, gear, and a dry-suit for the open-water training, and a kayak and gear for the student paddle if the student does not have them. Rental prices for boats, gear and dry-suits delivered to the open-water sessions are estimated to be:

—Kayak and gear, $65 plus tax for both days—Dry-suit, neoprene boots and cap, $55 plus tax for both

daysGraduation Requirements:• Attend all three lectures• Successfully complete pool session• Successfully swim 50 yards without flotation device (com-

pleted at the pool session)• Successfully complete the two open-water sessions• Successfully demonstrate the ability to perform cold-water

exits and recoveries• Successfully complete one Mountaineers student paddle

of at least 7 mi.

Chair: Mike Kretzler; mkretzler@comcast.netWebsite: www.olympiamountaineers.org

Webmaster: webmaster@olympiamountaineers.orgTO SIGN UP FOR AN OLYMPIA TRIP, CONTACT THE LEADER

BranchwideMembership information

If you have any questions about joining The Mountaineers, if you want a membership brochure sent to a friend, or if you have moved and don’t want to miss an issue of the monthly Go Guide, please send an e-mail to olymountaineers@gmail.com. Please include your mailing address in any messages so that

we can send you a membership packet. New and prospective members are invited to attend the monthly branch potluck/slide-show to meet local members and learn more about the club. You may also contact one of the activity coordinators listed in the Olympia section of the Go Guide if you have questions about hiking, scrambling, climbing, kayaking, conservation or any other branch activity.

Magazine deadlineSubmissions for the monthly Go Guide, listing branch out-

ings and activities, are due by the fifth day of the prior month. Please send input for the April issue no later than March 5 to Don Taylor, 6316 Tamoshan Dr. N.W., Olympia, WA 98502. Call 360-866-2262 (evenings) for e-mail address or if you need help transmitting materials.

Olympia Branch LibraryThe library is located at Maxine Dunkelman’s house, 5418

Lemon Rd. N.E. Contact Maxine, 360-352-5027, maxdunk@comcast.net, if you’d like to come by to browse or check out books. Feel free to drop off books at any time, either at Maxine’s or at Alpine Experience store (box behind the front counter). Books, DVDs and maps owned by the branch are listed on the branch’s website. Directions to Maxine’s: N. on Sleater-Kinney; left (S.W.) on South Bay; right (N.) on Schinke; left (W.) on 46th; right on Lemon.

Radical Reels comingThe Banff Mountain Film Festival brings its latest tour,

Radical Reels, to Olympia on Fri., March 12. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. at the Capitol Theater, 206 E. 5th Ave., in downtown Olympia. The show will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets will be sold at Alpine Experience and Olympic Outfitters or at the door. Cost is $12 with a $2 discount for Mountaineers members.

Branch officers’ meetingThe next monthly meeting of the Olympia Branch Board

will be held on Wed., March 10, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Olympia Center.

Go Guide March 2010 7Olympia

Potluck meeting to host Alan BauerProfessional photographer Alan Bauer will present the adven-

ture and beauty of day hiking in Washington on Tue., March 2. He will discuss his experiences while working on “Day Hiking: South Cascades” and “Best Desert Hikes: Washington.” He will also spotlight some of the beautiful areas in our state that may be unfamiliar to many people.

Join us at the Olympia Center on the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. for a shared potluck and social hour, followed by the Outdoor Adventure Presentation at 7 p.m.

The center is located at 222 Columbia St., N.W., and the meet-ing is held in Rooms 101-102. All members and those interested in learning more about The Mountaineers are welcome. This is a great opportunity to meet fellow Mountaineers, share ideas, learn about other escapades and adventures, while connecting with our great community of outdoor enthusiasts.

Please bring a dish to share, your own plate and flatware. A prize for the best dish will be awarded and there will be door prizes. Librarian Maxine Dunkelman will make available a selection of books for members to check out; contact her for special requests.

Future programs: April 6 - Mike Kretzler on backpacking on the Snake River Trail. May 4 - Dominique Bachelet on cycling adventures in France.

Please note that from June through August there are no monthly potluck meetings. For more information about the meet-ings, call the coordinator, Carolyn Burreson, 360-705-2055.

Alpine ScramblingCommittee: Shannon McCary, Robert Arnsdorf, Doug Hutcheson, Steve

Thompson.

Scrambling CourseRemaining lectures:March 2, Tue., 6:30-9:30 p.m. Knox Center, snow lectureMay 4, Tue., 6:30-9:30 p.m. Knox Center, rock lectureRemaining field trips:March 13, Sat. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mt. Rainier, Snow I (alterna-

tive March 20)April 3, Sat. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Mt. Rainier, Snow II (alterna-

tive TBA)May 8, Sat. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Little Si, Rock

Climbing

Basic Climbing CourseRemaining lectures:March 2, Tue. - Intro to Climbing: Belay Skills 2, Knox

CenterMarch 16, Tue. - Intro to Climbing: Snow Travel, Knox

CenterApril 6, Tue. - Climbing Hazards, Knox CenterApril 21, Wed. - Rock Climbing, Knox CenterRemaining field trips:March 7, Sun. - Intro to Climbing Field Trip: Belay Practice,

Priest Point Park, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.March 20, Sat. - Intro to Climbing Field Trip: Snow 1, Mt.

Rainier, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.April 10-11, Sat.-Sun. - Glacier Module Field Trip: Snow

weekend, Mt. RainierJune 1, Tue. - Z-Pulley Workshop, Location TBDJune 5, Sat. - Glacier Travel Field Trip, Mt. Rainier, 8 a.m.-

5 p.m.April 26, Mon. - Rock Gym; Warehouse Rock Gym, 6

p.m.-9 p.m.May 1, Sat. - Rock Field Trip: Rock Fundamentals, Spire

Rock, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.May 15, Sat. - Rock Field Trip; McCleary Cliffs (may be a

two-day weekend trip, depending on class size).

Beyond Basic Rock CourseThis course is designed to teach rock climbing skills that will

enable you to climb safely in the backcountry. You will improve on the skills learned in the Basic Climbing Course, which in-cludes belaying, rappelling, and basic rock climbing. In addition, you will be introduced to more advanced climbing techniques, placing protection, building anchors, and lead-climbing. The module will be taught in a series of four lectures combined with hands-on climbing at Warehouse Rocks. We then move outside to four different rock-climbing areas.

The course fee is $90. Students must have completed the basic climbing rock module to be eligible for this course.

Lectures at Rock Gym:March 13, Sat. - Successfully complete a sport climbMarch 27, Sat. - Face climbing skillsApril 3, Sat. - Crack climbing skillsApril 17, Sat. - Building anchorsField Trips:May 22, Sat. - Sport climbing at Fossil Rock, YelmMay 29, Sat. - Sport climbing at Exit 38, North BendJune 12, Sat. - Sport climbing/crack climbing at Frenchman

CouleeJune 19, Sat. - Crack climbing at Royal Columns, Tieton

River areaTo register for the Beyond Basic Rock Course, send a climb-

ing resume to Doug Souliere, 1617 Groves Ave. N.W., Olympia, or send it via e-mail to doug@gcprint.com.

Hiking For information on leading hikes and other hiking-related questions, contact one

of the Hiking Committee co-chairs: Carla Jonientz, 360-359-8412, carlajo-nientz@yahoo.com.; Darlene Dickinson, 360-357-3527, darlenedickinson@hotmail.com; Vera Sutton, 360-426-0231, vsutton@hctc.com.

Monthly hiking coordinators for the remainder of 2010 are:April - Vera SuttonMay - Leroy GayJune - Darlene DickinsonJuly - Eric QuinnAugust - Mary Jo BuzaSeptember - Peta HendersonOctober - Mary Jo BuzaNovember - Nancy LloydDecember - Eric Quinn

HikesMarch 6, Sat. - Big Creek Loop (E) (CC Mt. Skokomish-Lake Cushman) 4.5 mi. 1000’ gain. Family hike, especially for chil-dren, but anyone is welcome on this hike in the N. Fork Skokom-ish River Valley. Starting near Big Creek CG, the forested trail is almost always within earshot of tumbling creeks. Children’s pace. Contact Anne Whitney, 360-753-6526, alobe75290@aol.com.March 6, Sat. - Ruby Beach to Kalaloch (MS) (CC S. Olympic Coast) 8 mi. No gain. Enjoy a spectacular beach hike (one-way, shuttle) from Ruby Beach to Kalaloch and share dinner at Ka-laloch Lodge. Contact Carla Jonientz, 360-359-8412 (preferred), carlajonientz@yahoo.com.March ��, Sat. - Priest Point Park Park (E) (Map: Google “Priest Point Park Map”) 3 mi., 200’ gain. We’ll hike some of the trails and shorelines at a relaxed pace with stops for views and beachcombing. Meet at 10 a.m. near the restroom by the parking lot on the W. side of the East Bay Drive overpass. Look for the orange bike flag. Bring lug-soled boots or shoes (no court or street shoes because parts of the trail are steep and slippery). Optional lunch at a nearby restaurant after the hike. No regis-tration required. Leader: Allen Mote, 360-970-8943 (7-9 p.m.), allenmote@gmail.com.March �4, Sun. - Lower Lena Lake (M) (USGS: The Brothers/Mt. Washington; GT The Brothers) 6.4 mi. 1300’ gain. Pleasant hike on moderately-graded trail through lush forest with lots of old-growth trees. Our destination is a beautiful sub-alpine lake formed by a massive rock slide 5,000 years ago. Giant moss-covered boulders provide interesting mid-trip scenery where Lena Creek “mysteriously” vanishes before getting to the bridge that crosses it. Be ready for rain. NWFP. Leader: Nancy Lloyd, 360-628-4237, (preferred), nancylloy@yahoo.com.March 20, Sat. - Little Mashel Falls, Pack Forest (E) No map needed. 5.4 mi. 300’ gain—with optional step-scramble to the falls. This series of falls is very dramatic and a beautiful place to hang out in good weather. A short 45-min. drive from Olympia. This is a nice introduction to the UW’s Pack Forest with easy route-finding and scrambling. Great beginner hike. Contact Dixie, 360-943-2734, HavlakRD@comcast.net.

First Aid (MOFA)Spring MOFA class

Come prepared to have fun and be challenged while learn-ing mountaineering-oriented first aid (MOFA). This class offers essential skills for those who enjoy climbing, hiking and other Mountaineers activities.

We will be spending time outside, rain or shine, so please dress appropriately. Bring your daypack as it would be packed for the trail. Include extra clothing, trekking poles, your current first aid kit and the rest of your Ten Essentials. We have a lot of material to cover, so the pace will be fast.

The class will be more meaningful if you cover the reading prior to class. Snacks and beverages will be provided. Please bring a lunch to all weekend classes.

Graduation requirements: attend all classes, pass written exams and practical scenarios, assemble a full MOFA kit, and complete CPR training no more than three months prior to the first day of the course.

Attendance at all classes is mandatory. All classes will be held at the Griffin Fire Department, 3707 Steamboat Loop N.W., Olympia. Directions from I-5: N. on Hwy. 101 about 7.5 mi., right on exit ramp to Steamboat Island Rd. Immediate left then follow signs straight to Steamboat Island Rd. The fire department is to the left on the corner.

Schedule of classes:April 17, Sat. 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.April 24, Sat. 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.April 25, Sun. 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.The course fee is $80 for Mountaineers members and $100

for non-members. The textbooks are included in the cost: “Moun-taineering First Aid,” 5th edition, and American Red Cross First Aid/CPR for Schools and Communities,” 3rd edition.

Paid registration must be received by March 30. We cannot provide refunds for cancellations after March 30. Register online at www.olympiamountaineers.org/courses.htm or by phone at 800-573-8484. Processing fees may apply to refunds for online registration. Textbooks can be picked up at the Alpine Experi-ence after March 30.

For details and registration information, contact the course chair, Eric Quinn, traileq@urdo.com, 360-556-4969, or the co-chair, Tom Eckhout, teckhout@msn.com, 360-556-9898.

Spring MOFA Refresher CourseIs your MOFA card about to expire? Then this class if for

you. The MOFA Refresher Course is a great way to practice your first aid skills and learn the most current first aid methods. There are no fees for the Refresher Course. A current MOFA card is required for registration. Students will need to provide their own copy of the text: “Mountaineering First Aid,” 5th edition. The other text, “American Red Cross First Aid/CPR for Schools and Communities,” 3rd edition, will be provided.

Graduation requirements: attend all classes, pass written exams and practical scenarios, assemble a full MOFA kit, and complete CPR training no more than three months prior to the first day of the course.

Attendance at all classes is mandatory. The first two classes will be held at the Olympia School District Knox Center, corner of Legion and Eastside. The third class will be held in conjunc-tion with the regular MOFA course (see above). Sign up online at www.olympiamountaineers.org/courses.htm or contact Eric Quinn, traileq@urdo.com, 360-556-4969.

Schedule:April 8, Thu., 6:30 p.m.- 9:30 p.m. at Knox CenterApril 15, Thu., 6:30 p.m.- 9:30 p.m. at Knox CenterApril 25, Sun., 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. at Griffin Fire Dept.For more information, contact Eric Quinn, traileq@urdo.

com, 360-556-4969, or Tom Eckhout, teckhout@msn.com, 360-556-9898.

CPR CourseThis class is intended to help MOFA and refresher students

meet the CPR requirement. Students may meet the CPR require-ment by taking other CPR courses within three months prior to the first day of the MOFA or Refresher Course. The CPR

Course will be held at the Olympia School District’s Knox Center, corner of Legion and Eastside. The course is held on two different days (your choice): Thu., April 1, or Thu., April 22, from 6:30-9:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Eric Quinn, traileq@urdo.com, 360-556-4969, or Tom Eckhout, teckhout@msn.com, 360-556-9898.

Sea KayakingCo-Chair: Ron Jones, 360-359-3395Co-Chair: Henry Romer, 360-357-7638Basic Course: Will Greenough, 360-508-0456Committee meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month, Sep-

tember through May. This is where all the brainstorming and planning takes place. The committee plans the annual basic kayak course, trips, special events, training and other fun activities. We welcome your enthusiasm. The next meeting will be on March 17 at 5:30 p.m. at Alpine Experience. Call Ron Jones, 360-359-3395, or check the Olympia sea kayaking community section at www.mountaineers.org for details about the committee.

Olympia Sea Kayaking on the Web: To improve communications among paddlers, we’ve developed an Olympia Sea Kayaking section in the com-munities area of the main Mountaineers website, www.mountaineers.org. Here you’ll find meeting minutes, trip reports, photos, and much more. You’re going to like it. If you need help getting in, call Tim Nagle, 360-561-5504, or Ron Jones, 360-359-3395.

Sea Kayak Equivalency: Mountaineers members with previous kayak training and experience, but who have not completed a Mountaineers Sea Kayaking Course (offered in Olympia, Tacoma and Seattle) are encouraged to apply. Olympia Branch members should contact Steve Gorton, 360-866-2788, for an application. The process may take 3-6 weeks.

TripsTrips are open to all Mountaineers who have graduated from the basic course

or been granted equivalency. Trips are classified by the sea kayak (SK) rat-ing system. Check with the trip leader to see if the trip is right for you. Some trips are scheduled too late to make it into the Go Guide, so also check The Mountaineers website (www.mountaineers.org). If there is a particular trip you would like to see offered, contact Tim Nagle, 360-561-5504, tnagle@stmartin.edu.

March 5, Fri. - South Sound Night Paddle (SK II-III) (NOAA Chart 18448) 11 nm. Destination to be decided, based on weather. Launch at 5 p.m. with an expected return at 8 p.m. Contact Will Greenough, 360-508-0456, kayakwill@yahoo.com.March ��, Sat. - Ketron Island (SK II+) 13 nm. Circumnavigate Ketron Island from Nisqually’s Luhr Beach. This trip qualifies as one of the Paddle Pin Island Series. Henry Romer, 360-357-7638, hromer@aol.com.March �4, Sun. - Pool Play 3-5 p.m. If the Sound is too cold, how about some chlorine up your nose? Warm water is perfect for practicing braces, wet exits, rescues and rolls. New members are encouraged to join the fun, practice old skills and learn new ones from the experienced paddlers. Bring a clean kayak and $5 if you’re a Mountaineer ($10 for non-members) to the River Ridge High School pool in Lacey.March �4, Sun. - Intro to Kayak Rolling 3-5 p.m. Private kayak rolling lessons to continue at the open pool session on March 14. $15 includes your pool entrance fee and 30 minutes of roll coaching. Great refresher or an opportunity to pick up some more details. Limit of 6 participants. You must contact the coordinator for details and to sign up: Bob Burreson, 360-705-2055.Midweek trips: Are you on a non-standard work schedule or no schedule at all? Want to paddle midweek? Let Henry know a date, and he’ll see what can be done: Henry Romer, 360-357-7638.

Intro to Sea Kayaking CourseThe Basic Sea Kayaking Course begins in April and is open

to all members of The Mountaineers. The course provides a basic introduction to sea kayaking. Graduation from the course permits members to sign up for all Mountaineers sea kayak trips. No prior knowledge or experience is required.

All instruction will be in single kayaks. If you do not own a kayak, rentals will be available. The course will be limited to 18 students. Please note the dates carefully and confirm that your schedule will permit you to attend all of the sessions. There will be no opportunity to make up missed sessions.

Sea kayaking, and the course, involve a level of strength, flexibility and endurance possessed by most physically-active individuals. If you have any questions or concerns about your ability to participate, please contact Will Greenough, 360-508-0456, juniwill@q.com, or Tim Burke, 360-866-4286.

The course fee is $175. Students who do not own or have access to a kayak and the required equipment will be required to rent on three occasions: the open-water session, the wet paddle, and one additional Mountaineers-sponsored trip. Kayaks will be provided for the pool session. You may also have other expenses for appropriate clothing and equipment.

Typically, the course fills quickly. The registration form/questionnaire is available in the archives section of the Olympia Mountaineers sea kayak community page on The Mountaineers website (www.mountaineers.org), or by contacting Will Gre-enough or Tim Burke.

Course Structure and Schedule: The course consists of three lectures, one pool session, one open-water session and one wet paddle.

Lectures:(All lectures are at the Coach House, 211 W. 21st Ave.,

6:30-9:30 p.m.)April 28, Wed. - Introduction, orientation, equipment over-

view, safety, introduction to basic techniques.May 6, Thu. - Hypothermia, first aid equipment, introduction

to tides and currents, weather for kayakers.May 12, Wed. - Boat handling, leadership/followership,

wilderness ethics, volunteerism, the next steps.Pool session: April 30, Fri. - River Ridge High School, 8929

Martin Way E., 6-9 p.m.Swim test, entry and exit, rescue techniques, fitting your

kayak, bracing.Open-water session: May 8, Sat. - Keneydell Park, Black

Lake, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Boat loading and tie down, forward paddling, braces, turning strokes.

Wet paddle: May 15, Sat., or May 16, Sun. - Boston Harbor, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (Two sessions; each student must attend one of these). Four-hour paddle, and self- and assisted-rescue clinic in cold water. Plan to get wet in cold water.

One additional Mountaineers-sponsored paddle trip is re-quired to graduate.

8 March 2010 Go Guide Olympia-Seattle

SinglesSocial activities are organized for the enjoyment of all adult Mountaineers. Par-

ticipating in activities provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy our Northwest outdoors, while getting acquainted with people who have similar interests.

Singles Coordinator: Linda Hayes, lhayes1961@comcast.netE-mail Updates: The Olympia Singles Yahoo group is a great way to learn

about last minute activities and get reminders of upcoming events. If you would like to be invited to join the Olympia Mountaineers Singles Yahoo Group, send a request to Linda, lhayes1961@comcast.net. Include a brief message that you heard about the group from the Go Guide.

Winter Travel (Nordic ski, snowshoe)

Cross-country ski tripsMarch �4, Sun. - Blewett Pass: Wenatchee Ridge (E) (GT-210 Liberty) 6 mi.. 460’ gain. A scenic ridge tour with long, gradual slopes on a nice, easy forest road. This is usually the leader’s most popular trip. Leader: Leroy Gay, 360-280-0450, leroian@yahoo.com.March 28, Sun. - Amabilis Mountain (Intermediate) 8 mi. 2154’ gain. Partially groomed. Great views of Kachess Lake, Mt. Catherine, Mt. Rainier and opportunities on open slopes to

carve some turns. May move to another location after scouting it. For drivers, parking requires Groomed Trails and Sno-Park permit. Sign up with leader by 8 p.m. on Fri., March 26: Doug Hutcheson, 360-870-9793, dhutcheson360@comcast.net.

Snowshoe or cross-country ski tripsMarch 27, Sat. - Mowich Lake Road (M) (GT Mt. Rainier W.) 8-11 mi. 1400’ gain. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers travel a lonely forest road for a spring tour through the trees to frozen Mowich Lake. The hill is gentle but steady. Terrain is not technical but endurance is needed to get to the lake. Drivers need a high-clearance vehicle. Please sign up by March 13. Leader: Eric Quinn, 360-556-4969, traileq@ubrdo.com.

BranchwideInformation, new members meeting

The Seattle Branch new members’ meeting is held on the first Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at club headquarters. The meeting allows new and prospective members an overview of all the activities that the branch offers. Activity representatives are also on hand to answer questions about particular programs and courses.

Alpine ScramblingSee the Seattle scrambling website: http://www.mountaineers.org/seattle/

scramble Committee Chair: Ed Dominguez, 206-322-9343, edomino.ed@gmail.comCourse Attendance & Equivalency Questions: Deborah Walker, 206-285-

8444, deborahw@eskimo.comWorkshop Questions: Mary Panza, 206-236-8801, makinanoise@hotmail.

com Field Trip Questions: Mike Sweeney, 425-417-3081, michael.m.sweeney@

boeing.comLeadership Questions & Advanced Scramble Course: Randy Nelson, 206-

328-9465, grandjubile@usa.netWinter Scramble Questions: Johnny Jeans, 425-746-2328, jjmtnjoys@

yahoo.com

Alpine Scrambling CourseThe Alpine Scrambling Course teaches skills used to reach

non-technical snow and rock summits. Alpine scrambling in-volves off-trail travel on moderately exposed rock and snow. It does not include roped climbing. The scramble course will give you access to hundreds of peaks in the Cascades and Olympics. The skills, conditioning, gear and experience you acquire will also serve you well should you continue on to technical climb-ing courses.

Graduation requirements:• Attend each workshop, pass all quizzes, and satisfactorily

complete each field trip.• Reach the summit in a competent manner on three separate

alpine scramble trips.• Complete the separate Basic Navigation Course (November,

February, or March).• Complete the separate Mountaineering-Oriented First Aid

(MOFA) Course.• Apply for graduation. Date TBA.Course workshops and field trips are sequential and must

be taken in order to advance to the next activity. Students who miss the first workshop will be dropped from the course without refund. Missing other workshops or any field trip may force a student to complete the course as a second-year student.

Seattle workshops (7-9:�0 p.m. at Mountaineers Program Center):

March 29, Mon. - Snow TravelApril 26, Mon. - Rock ScramblingEastside workshops (7-9:�0 p.m. at a Redmond loca-

tion):April 5, Mon. - Snow TravelMay 3, Mon. - Rock ScramblingField trips (students may choose one of the dates for

each field trip):April 24 or 25, Sat. or Sun. - All-Day Snow Field Trip (ad-

ditional dates available in conjunction with Seattle Basic Alpine Climbing Course: May 1 or May 9)

May 15 or 16, Sat. or Sun. – All-Day Rock Field Trip Jun. 5 or 6, Sat. or Sun. – All-Day Scramble Experience

Field Trip Note: Smaller class enrollment may cause some field trips

to be offered one day only.See www.mountaineers.org/seattlescramble for current

course information. If you have questions, come to a new mem-bers’ presentation at The Mountaineers Program Center on March 3 or contact Mary Panza, makinanoise@hotmail.com.

Advanced Scramble/Leadership(Event #7866) Experienced scramblers wanting to develop

advanced scrambling and leadership skills are invited to apply for the Advanced Scrambling and Leadership Course. The course is flexible, and we expect enrollees to provide input on what they want to learn.

Admission can be done at any time, but is open only to Mountaineers members and depends on an interview with the course chair or Alpine Scrambling Committee chair.

Course summaryThere are six independent modules. We expect most students

to take two years to develop the skills and experience required to graduate from the course.

A) Rock and Snow Protection: Rope protection techniques for rock, hard snow and ice. Emergency rope use, belayed lowering, and running belays.

B) Winter Scramble: Winter scrambling and emergency bivouac techniques.

C) Avalanche: American Avalanche Association Level 1 training.

D) Hard Snow: Hard snow self-arrest. French crampon and ice ax techniques. Emergency belay and lowering methods.

E) Leadership Training: Preparation to become a scramble trip leader. Trip planning and scramble party management; safety and emergency procedures.

F) Backcountry Navigation: Route-finding, map-reading, and GPS skills beyond the basic navigation course.

Cost: The complete course with all modules is $175. Quali-fied members may take an individual module (except for the avalanche modules) separately for $50.

Questions: Contact the course chair, Randy Nelson, grand-jubile@usa.net.

Alpine Scrambling Committee Alpine Scrambling Committee meetings are held each month,

September through May, at club headquarters from 7 to 9 p.m., typically on the third Monday of the month. If you have ques-tions about the committee’s work or are interested in attending, presenting an issue, or submitting an agenda item, contact the committee co-chairs.

The committee welcomes input from scramblers on how to improve the alpine scrambling program. Send your ideas, sug-gestions, or complaints to the committee co-chairs.

TripsAlpine scramble trips: Alpine scrambles are strenuous off-trail trips to a

summit. Scrambles often travel over snow and rock, and through brush. Most routes will cross some exposed areas. These trips are open only to Mountaineers members who are Alpine Scrambling Course students or graduates, Basic Climbing Course graduates, or those with Alpine Scrambling or Basic Climbing Course equivalency.

No trips were listed as of the Go Guide deadline. Please check www.moun-taineers.org for any late-breaking trips.

Exploratory scrambles: These trips investigate new scramble routes. Scram-bling students are not eligible to participate.

After-hours scrambles are denoted in the listing by “AHS.”Winter scrambles: Scramble trips between December and March are winter

scrambles, and others may be too as conditions dictate. Winter scramble trips involve snowshoe travel and significant exposure to cold weather and avalanche hazard. Scramble students are NOT eligible to go on winter scrambles. We strongly recommend participants have winter snow travel experience and training in avalanche avoidance and rescue. Snowshoes and ice ax must be brought to the trailhead and poles are recommended. Leaders may also require avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel. Please contact the trip leader if you have questions about your preparation or equipment.

Registration procedures: The preferred registration method is through the “Activity Search” area of www.mountaineers.org. Before committing to a trip, please check the trip details online. Contact the leader well before the trip if you have questions.

March 6, Sat. - Camp Muir 10,000’ (Winter Scramble) (USGS Mt Rainier E.), 8 mi. 4600’ gain. Meet 8:30 a.m. Paradise. Leader: Frank Jesseph, 206-300-2168. (s2/22-3/02)March �4, Sun. - Granite Mtn. (Winter Scramble) (USGS Sno-qualmie Pass). Meet 7 a.m. at 65th St. P&R. Leader’s permission required. Leader: Tab Wilkins, 206-782-3666. (s2/1-3/12)

Backcountry Ski/Snowbd.Committee Chair and Contact: Cindy Hoover, cyn@zipcon.com, 206-783-

4032.Join us: The Backcountry Ski & Snowboard Committee invites skiers and

TO SIGN UP FOR A SEATTLE TRIP, VISIT WWW.MOUNTAINEERS.ORG OR CALL 206-521-6000, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

Chair: Courtland Shafer Ph: 206-763-1510 E-mail: courtland@seanet.com Website: www.seattlemountaineers.org

(cancellation fees may apply for fee-based events and classes; contact leader)

snowboarders to join in putting on a great ski and snowboard program. This is an opportunity to meet other skiers and snowboarders, learn new skills, and update current ones by helping in our education program. If interested in getting involved in any way, please contact the chair, 206-783-4032 (evenings before 9 p.m.), or at cyn@zipcon.com.

Ski & Snowboard leaders wanted: If you don’t see a trip that you would like to go on, or you know of areas to ski or snowboard that you would like to share with others, then become a trip leader! We particularly need leaders to lead easy and moderate-level Nordic (N-rated) or mountain (M-rated) trips. The process for becoming a leader is not difficult, and you will soon be out on the snow with new skiing and snowboarding friends. The required leadership seminar, field trip and avalanche Level 1 training are offered every winter. Prospective leaders who would like assistance can request mentoring to help them get started. Interested skiers and snowboarders should contact Cindy Hoover, cyn@zipcon.com, 206-783-4032, for more information or for an application to become a trip leader.

TripsPlease check the website for last-minute trip listings. Frequently trips are added

throughout the month. Indicates Trailhead event. See pg. 1 for details about Trailhead.Feb. 27-28, Sat.-Sun. - Snow Camping For Beginners

So you’re already backpacking and want to break into the 4th season? Come “chill” with us at our Snoqualmie Campus and learn how to build a leave-no-trace campfire in the snow, make winter furniture, and how to have more fun than a group of poofy grownups should be allowed to have. Folks already used to backpacking are most appropriate for this outing, and a gear list will be available upon request. Camping gear can be shared or rented, and most three-season backpacking gear will suf-fice. Don’t hesitate with questions. Contact Ken Hahn, kenh@mountaineers.org, 206-595-7237. Event fees: members $15, non-members $25.Feb. 28, Sun. - N. Fork Tieton River Trails (N2) (White Pass GT 303) Up to 10 mi., 500’ gain or more. Meet at 8 a.m. in Pack-wood. Ski for the day at N. Fork Tieton, or make it a weekend on the snow by combining with the Feb. 27 snowshoe/ski trip at Yellow Jacket Road (White Pass). Motel options available in Packwood. The Saturday trip at Yellow Jacket Road (leader is Eric Quinn) is listed under snowshoe activities, and participants have a snowshoe or ski option. Limit 12. Leader: Linda Moore, 425- 347-7650, abenteuerbc@yahoo.com. (s/2/1-2/25) March 4, Thu. - Amabilis Mtn. (N3) (Snoqulamie Pass GT 207) 9 mi., 2200’ gain A classic trip with great views. Limit 7. Meet at Preston P&R at 8 a.m. Leader: Jon Struss, 206-244-2669, jonstruss@comcast.net. (s/2/17-3/2)

March 7, Sun. - Cross-Country Skiing for Beginners So you’re intrigued by the idea of gliding gently through the woods, gawking at the snowshoers as you silently drift past, but feel the need for a good coaching session? This clinic is for you! We’ll spend half-a-day in a casual atmosphere working on the basics of classic XC skiing on groomed trails. The event will run from morning to roughly noon (exact times TBA). Ski rentals are avail-able at REI, and a clothing/gear list will be provided after you sign up. A Sno-Park permit (also available at REI for $20 a day) will be required per car; fees can be divided among carpoolers. Guests or members who need assistance with signing up should contact the leader: Ken Hahn: kenh@mountaineers.org or 206-595-7237. Event Fee: Member $30, Non-Member $40.March ��, Sat. - Copper Creek Hut (N2) (Mt. Rainier W. GT-269) 8 mi., 1200’ gain. On the Mt. Tahoma Trails System. Meet at Whittaker’s Bunkhouse Cafe in Ashford at 8:30 a.m. Limit 12. Leader: Linda Moore, 425-347-7650, abenteuerbc@yahoo.com. (s/2/8-3/11)March �4, Sun. - Leader’s Choice (N1-2) This will be a good trip for those relatively new to XC skiing and non-groomed routes. Need some speed control skills for going downhill? We’ll go where we can find snow—within a 2-hr. drive of Seattle—and will meet at a P&R at 8:30 a.m. for carpooling. Details will be posted on website, or call leader. Limit: 10. Leader: Cindy Hoover 206-783-4032, cyn@zipcon.com. (s/3/1-3/11)

BackpackingBackpacking involves overnight hiking trips. Most trips are two or three days,

but some are more than a week. Each participant carries his or her own overnight gear (tent, stove, sleeping bag, etc.) Sharing of equipment is encouraged to distribute weight. An annual backpacking class, open to all, is offered each June. The class is not required to participate in backpacking. Backpacking trips are for adults. No children or pets.

Website: http://www.mountaineers.org/seattle/backpack Indicates Trailhead event. See pg. 1 for details about Trailhead.Feb. 27-28, Sat.-Sun. - Snow Camping For Beginners

So you’re already backpacking and want to break into the 4th season? See Backcountry Skiing for full details.

March �8, Thu. - Backpacking Basics Bridge the gap be-tween day trips and truly experiencing the wilderness overnight. Tips on gear and technique to spend a comfy night in mountains. Learn what works best in particular situations and what is spe-cifically applicable to Pacific Northwest backpacking. Guests or members who need assistance with signing up should contact the coordinator: Ken Hahn, kenh@mountaineers.org, 206-595-7237. Event fees: $10 members, $15 non-members.

ClimbingWeb pages

The Climbing Committee’s web pages are accessible for the convenience of members from The Mountaineers home page or directly at: www.mountaineers.org/seattle/climbing.

Go Guide March 2010 9Seattle

Basic Alpine Climbing CourseBasic Alpine Climbing Course registration is currently

closed. Registration for the 2011 course will open in the fall. For more about this intensive and thorough program, please visit our website (listed above).

Remaining schedule:Fri., March 5 - Lecture #2 7-9 p.m. in Goodman A & B of

Mountaineers Program Center. Leadership and what to expect on a Mountaineers climb; safety policies of The Mountaineers; the sources and consequences of awful mistakes in the mountains.

March 8, 9, �4, Mon., Tue., Sun. - Field Trip #� For the 8th or 9th, check in by 6 p.m. For the 14th, check in by 7:30 a.m. for the morning, noon or afternoon session. Prusiking, belaying, and belay escape. Refer to the basic student handbook for required reading and equipment. March 9 leader - Walt Reis-sig, crusty.snow@verizon.net, 425-357-1813; March 10 leader - Barbara Dekeyser, 206-920-4993, barbaradekeyser@gmail.com; March 14 leader - Mike Maude, mjm000@msn.com.com, 425-485-8727. Instructors and students register online at www.mountaineers.org (s2/15-3/11). Go to “activity search” and select “any date is fine,” then indicate “field trip 3” in the destination name window.

April �0-�� or 24-25 - Field Trip #4 Students check in by 7:30 a.m. The final rock skills evaluation field trip. Climbing, belaying, belay escape, rappelling, and knots. Refer to the basic student handbook for required reading and equipment. April 10, 24, 25 leader - Hadi Al-Saadoon, bluehadoo@comcast.net, 206-595-1836; April 11 leader - Walt Reissig, crusty.snow@verizon.net, 425-357-1813. Instructors and students sign up on-line at www.mountaineers.org (s2/22-3/22). Go to “activity search” and select “any date is fine,” then indicate “field trip 4” in the destination name window. More info: mark_scheffer@yahoo.com, 360-805-6420.

Basic climbsMarch ��, Sat. - Mt. Hood, S. Side (BG) Limit 9. Very strenuous pace; weather dependent. Conditions permitting we are on the summit in 5 hrs. Don’t sign up if you can’t keep up; we can still have fun! Leader’s permission required. Leader: Hadi Al-Saa-doon, 206-721-3031, bluehadoo@comcast.net. (s2/22-3/10)April �, Sat. - S. Early Winter Spire, SW Couloir (BA) Limit 8. Snowshoes required. Leader: Mark Scheffer, 360-805-6420, mark_scheffer@yahoo.com. (s3/15-4/1)

EquivalencyIf you possess significant and current climbing skills, as

well as experience, you can apply for Basic Alpine Climbing Course equivalency to participate on club climbs and events. To find out more, contact the program coordinator, Joe Dumelin, basic.equivalency@gmail.com.

Intermediate climbingIntermediate Climbing Course registration is currently

closed. Watch for information about next year’s program offer-ing late this year or visit www.mountaineers.org/seattle/climb-ing/Courses/IntermediateCourse.html. The course consists of classroom and field instruction designed to teach techniques of safe lead-climbing on rock, snow, ice and mixed alpine terrain.

Remaining lecture schedule:March 3, Wed. - Rescue Methods & Safety March 12, 14, 15, or 17, Fri., Sun., Mon., Wed. - Rock

Climbing at Vertical World, Redmond, and Mountaineers Pro-gram Center.

June 28, Mon. - Alpine Ice ClimbingRemaining field trip schedule:March 6-7 or 20-21, Sat.-Sun. - Rescue Methods (2 days)March 27-28, April 3-4 or 17-18, Sat.-Sun. - Rock 1 (2

days) May1, 2 or 15, Sun, or Sat. - Rock 2 (1 day)July 10-11, 17-18, 24-25, Aug. 14-15, Sat.-Sun. - Ice 1 (2

days) Aug. 28, 29, Sept. 11, 12, Sat. or Sun. - Ice 2 (1 day)

Intermediate climbsMarch 6-7, Sat.-Sun. - Mt. Rainier, DC Route (winter) (IM) Limit 6. This is a very strenuous climb. Climbers on this trip should be prepared for the potential of a -10 to -30 degree wind-chill (or colder). Participants should have some previous winter climbing experience at altitude prior to signing up for this trip. Sign up with leader: Mark Scheffer, 360-805-6420, mark_schef-fer@yahoo.com. (s2/1-3/4)

Crag Climbing CourseThe 2010 Crag Climbing Course is full; additional applica-

tions will be put on a wait list in the order received.The course teaches the skills, knowledge, and techniques

needed to safely lead traditional and bolted routes on outdoor crags. It fully covers proper use of active and passive protection needed for lead climbing in the crag environment, construction of safe anchor systems for top-rope/leading, swinging leads on mid-5th class (5.4-5.8), single and multi-pitch climbs, and other pertinent crag climbing skills.

Remaining schedule (tentative):March 13, Sat. - All day at Mountaineers Program CenterTBA - Vertical World SeminarApril 3 or 4 - Vantage (half of class each day) April 24-25, Sat-Sun. - Leavenworth May 15-16, Sat-Sun. - Leavenworth May 22 or 23, Sat. or Sun. - Leavenworth and elsewhere

Crag climbsSIG = Small instructional groupMarch ��, Sat. - Leavenworth - Playground Point (RG) Limit 16. Climbing and rappelling practice for Wes Cooper’s SIG. Leader’s permission required: Wesley Cooper, 206-229-4101, wcooper06@yahoo.com. (s1/28-3/12)March 20, Sat. - Leavenworth - Roto Wall (RG) Limit 12. More details to come. Leader’s permission required: Colt DeWolf, 206-352-9113, colt0045@gmail.com. (s3/8-3/15)March 20, Sat. - Vantage: Feathers, Various (RG) Limit 12. Peter Heinz SIG. Leader’s permission required: Scott Heinz, 206-799-9637, scott.d.heinz@gmail.com. (s2/15-3/18)March 2�, Sun. - Leavenworth, Roto Wall (RG) Limit 12. SIG rock leader: Tina Nef, 206-784-7288, tinanef@aol.com. (s3/3-3/19)

March 27-28, Sat.-Sun. - Leavenworth, Playground Point (RG) Limit 2. Seattle intermediate Rock 1 field trip. Sign up with leader: Mark Scheffer, 360-805-6420, mark_scheffer@yahoo.com. (s3/25-3/26)March 27, Sat. - Leavenworth - Roto Wall (RG) Limit 12. Basic climbing. SIG outing. Sign up with leader: Douglas Smart, 206-517-2800, d.j.smart.seattle@gmail.com. (s3/25-3/26)April �0, Sat. - Leavenworth, Playground Point (RG) Limit 16. Peter Heinz basic SIG outing. Leader’s permission required. Leader: Scott Heinz, 206-799-9637, scott.d.heinz@gmail.com. (s3/8-4/8)April �0, Sat. - Vantage: Feathers, Various (RG) Limit 12. Rock experience field trip for Art Freeman’s SIG group. Leader’s permission required. Leader: Brett Dyson, 206-527-9842, hhik-ing@hotmail.com. (s1/20-4/2)April �7, Sat. - Tieton: Royal Columns, Various (RG) Limit 8. Crack climbing. Leader: Thomas Lewis, tnlsea@gmail.com. (s3/8-4/14)April �7, Sat. - Vantage: Feathers, Various (RG) Limit 8. A one-day, crag-climbing seminar for learning how to safely break down an anchor and rap off a bolted route. Open to basic grads, crag students, and intermediate students of any level including first year. Students do not need to know how to lead a bolted route. Bring rock shoes, climbing rope if you have one, quick-draws if you have them, at least two double-length slings and/or two daisy chains (personal anchor), at least two locking carabiners, harness, helmet (required), lunch, and water. No other climbing pro needed. We’ll also be top-roping for fun! Meet at the up-per parking area (by the Feathers) at 8 a.m. A WDFW permit is required for parking at Vantage. Contact the leader, Colt de Wolf, with questions: colt0045@gmail.com, 206-352-9113. (s3/29-4/12)April �8, Sun. - Tieton: Royal Columns, Various (RG) Limit 8. Crack climbing at Royal Columns. Leader: Thomas Lewis, tnlsea@gmail.com. (s3/8-4/14)

Sport Climbing CourseThe technical skills, as well as physical and mental strength,

acquired in sport climbing can be applied to all types of climbing adventures, from sport routes to multi-pitch traditional routes and even to ice climbing. Figure out what you need to do to start leading into the 5.10s and beyond on sport routes. Learn new techniques, how to belay and fall safely, assess risk, reflect on your climbing and improve your physical and mental strength.

To accomplish these things, you will partner with another person in the course for 10 weeks of training towards a targeted red-point sport route at Vantage. Because you will be working closely as a team with another person in the course, they will be highly dependent on you for training.

Applicants should be comfortable leading 5.9 sport routes. Please be sure that you can commit to the full training program, or make other workable arrangements.

Course fee: $150 plus Vertical World session ($35 members, $45 non-members). Required reading: “How to Climb 5.12,” by Eric Hörst, “The Rock Warrior’s Way,” by Arno Ilgner.

Important dates: March 4, Thu. - Meet the Sport Climbers Potluck, 7 p.m. at

Mountaineers Program Center March 12, Fri. - Physical Training for Sport Climbing, 7 p.m.

at Mountaineers Program Center. Before field trip #1 - 2-hr. Falling & Belaying Session at

Vertical World April 4, Sun. - Video Taping & Route SelectionApril 5, Mon. - Field Trip, Technique in Sport Climbing, 7

p.m., Mountaineers Program CenterApril 16, 17 &18, Fri.-Sun. - Optional Field Trip to Smith

Rock April 28, Wed. - Mental Training for Sport Climbing, 7 p.m.,

Mountaineers Program CenterMay 16, Sun. - Red-Point Field TripContact: Jenn Carter, jennecarter@gmail.com, or Deb Sand,

sebdand@gmail.com.

Intro to Alpine ClimbingIntro to Alpine Climbing (IAC) is a program designed as a

refresher for climbers whose skills might be a bit rusty and to give anyone new to climbing a taste of alpine techniques in a casual, hands-on environment. A different topic is scheduled each month from March through June as stand-alone events.

Some events are scheduled at the Mountaineers Program Center and others will be held in the field. You may attend one, some or all sessions. Space is limited, so register early for the topics you want to attend. Gear lists and other questions should be directed to the program coordinator, Jeff Panza, 206-755-9962, scramblebear@speakeasy.net.

IAC outingsApril �7, Sat. - Snow & Glacier Climbing Skills We’ll spend a day in the field reviewing and practicing snow-climbing skills. Included will be ice ax skills and roped climbing techniques. Class fee: $20 members; $35 non-members. Questions? Con-tact Jeff Panza, 206-755-9962, scramblebear@speakeasy.net. (s1/11-4/15) May 2, Sun. - Rock Climbing �0� Rock climbing at The Mouuntaineers Program Center. We’ll get as many laps in as possible and work on technique, as well as belaying and rappel-ling. Class fee: $20 members; $35 non-members. Questions? Contact Jeff Panza, 206-755-9962, scramblebear@speakeasy.net. (s1/11-4/29) June �2, Sat. - Crevasse Rescue & Belay Escape We’ll review and practice the skills for crevasse rescue and belay escape in the warmth of a city park setting. Class fee: $20 members; $35 non-members. Questions? Contact Jeff Panza, 206-755-9962, scramblebear@speakeasy.net. (s1/11-6/10)

Intro to Rock Climbing CourseThe Intro to Rock Climbing Course is designed for those

who have little to no outdoor rock climbing experience. In this course you will learn the basics of top-roped outdoor climbing. This includes learning basic climbing knots, belaying skills, climbing techniques and converting to rappel.

At the end of this course, you will be able to safely follow a lead climber on sport/crag climbs as well as know the basics for top-roping on your own. Note: this course is a top-rope course

only. It does not prepare you for an alpine environment or lead-ing rock climbs.

Schedule:April 21, Wed. - Kickoff lecture at Mountaineers Program

Center, 7 p.m.April 28, Wed. - Vertical World gym nightMay 8, Sat. - Field Trip at Mountaineers Program CenterMay 22-23, Sat.-Sun. - Location TBD Note: Attendance is required for all dates as there will be

no make-up sessions.You may sign up online at www.mountaineers.org or call The

Mountaineers Program Center at 206-521-6001. Registration will start on March 1 and go through April 19.

Course fee: $150.For more information: Amy Hardie, amylh4@hotmail.com,

or Susan Sayers, susanjsayers@gmail.com

Aid & Big Wall Seminar: springMarch 9, Tue. - Seminar meeting, 7 p.m. Introduction, basic

techniques, gear and fundamentals, in Conference Room of Mountaineers Program Center.

March 13 or 14, Sat. or Sun.- Practice session, 7:30 a.m. for continuing students, 8 a.m. for first year students, North Wall at Mountaineers Program Center.

March 24, Wed. - Seminar meeting, 7 p.m. Racking, anchor management and techniques, in Conference Room of Mountain-eers Program Center.

March 27 or 28, Sat. or Sun. - Practice session, 7:30 a.m. for continuing students, 8 a.m. for first-year students, North Wall at Mountaineers Program Center.

April 7, Wed. - Seminar meeting, 7 p.m., Cascade Room at Mountaineers Program Center. Hauling, hammering, hooks, and route beta & ratings.

April 10-11, Sat.-Sun. - Practice session. 7 a.m. at Vantage.Contact: Takeo Kuraishi takeo.kuraishi@attglobal.net (or

425-273-3856)

All new: Intro to BoulderingThe Seattle Branch climbing program now offers a beginner’s

course in safe and fun bouldering, the Introduction to Boulder-ing Course.

Students will learn what it takes to move confidently through a boulder route. Elements taught: correct techniques for safe spot-ting, learning to read a route, and basic climbing techniques.

The course will consist of two Thursday evenings at The Mountaineers Program Center boulder on June 3 and June 10, 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m., followed by an outdoor field trip to Leaven-worth on Sat., June 19.

The cost for this is $35 for members of The Mountaineers and $50 for non-members. The class will be limited to 10 stu-dents and will be filled with the first 10 who enroll. Enrollment starts April �. No experience is required. Students must be able to provide their own pair of rock shoes to participate. A chalk bag is recommended and a bouldering pad would be helpful but not required.

To enroll, visit www.mountaineers.org or call The Moun-taineers Program Center at 206-521-6001. Online, see “activity search,” then indicate “crag climbing” and see “Intro to Boul-dering.” Instructor for the course is Dave Kimber and the crag leader is Loni Uchytil.

Trailhead event Indicates Trailhead event. See pg. 1 for details about Trailhead.March 28, Sun. - Rock Climbing: Beginner’s Rock

Day That’s right folks; explore the thrill and grace of out-door rock climbing in a controlled and safe setting. Your pals with The Mountaineers would like to take you out for a day of easy climbing to give you a taste of what it’s like. You’ll work with experienced leaders and instructors who’ll teach you the basics of rock climbing. Bring your hiking boots (stiffer the better); rock shoes welcome but not necessary. We’ll provide the climbing gear (but feel free to bring what you already own). So come on out and enjoy this opportunity to have a blast and learn a new skill. Prerequisites: None. Course fee $25 members; $35 non members. Questions? Call or email Ken Hahn, 206-595-7237 0r kenh@mounaineers.org.

SeminarsColin Haley slideshow

March 2�, Sun. - 7 p.m. at Mountaineers Program Center. Colin started his climbing career in the Cascades and is currently climbing with the best alpine climbers, setting up new, hard, first ascents. Some of these include: The Entropy Wall (VI, 5.9, A2, WI4+), 33 pitches on Mt. Moffit in Alaska’s Hayes Range, with Jed Brown; The First Linkup, with Kelly Cordes of the Mar-signy-Parkin and West Face of Cerro Torre, establishing a new route to the summit (VI, M5, AI6+, A0); The First Ascent, with Rolando Garibotti of the “Torres Traverse,” a ridge traverse of Cerro Standhardt, Punta Herron, Torre Egger, and Cerro Torre; The First Ascent on Mt. Robson’s Emperor Face (VI, AI5, M7) with Steve House. Colin has also presented many slideshows of his great achievements. Don’t miss this opportunity.

Ultra-light packing for hikes, climbsMarch ��, Thu. - 7 p.m. at Mountaineers Program Center.

No registration necessary. No fee. Members and non-members are welcome. Lose 25 pounds in one evening!

Whether you want to hike from Mexico to Canada in one summer, climb Rainier, or simply hike with a light pack and overnight gear; this evening is for you. Climb leader and long distance hiker Paul Griffith sets out on a Rainier climb with a 25 lb. pack, including a rope and other party gear. That’s about half the average pack weight. He began an 11-day, 270-mi. Montana hike with a 22-lb. load, including food for the entire hike. On a 500-mi. Appalachian Trail hike, pack weight, without food and water, was pared to 5 lbs.

Most climbing talks feature added gear you should buy and carry. Now hear the other side. You can go farther, faster and more comfortably with a lighter pack. Paul will discuss and dem-onstrate ultra-light packs, shelter and sleep systems, cook sets, clothing, other essentials, and lightweight climbing gear. Even if you do not want to be an extreme ultra-light hiker or climber, you will pick up valuable new ideas to unburden yourself.

�0 March 2010 Go Guide Seattle

Weather for MountaineersMarch �8, Thu. - 7 p.m. at Mountaineers Program Center.

No registration necessary. No fee. Members and non-members are welcome. Weather is the biggest limiting factor for outdoor recreation in our marine climate. Understanding and—more importantly—predicting our mountain weather is a critical skill. Come learn from an expert. Mike Fagin is founder of Washington Online Weather (www.wowweather.com), a Mountaineers Alpine Scrambling Course grad and a professional weather forecaster.

Mike will give us an overview of “machinery” of Western Washington weather—what forces give us wet or dry conditions? He will share his favorite sources of accurate mountain forecasts to check before leaving home. Then he will talk about forecasting in the field. What do various cloud formations portend? Does that shift of wind direction mean anything? Is that gray sky okay or is it time to turn tail and scat? If it’s wet here, will it be better east of the passes?

Mike Fagin forecasts not only in our area but also for major Himalayan expeditions. Reduce your mountain misery quotient. Learn skills to help you keep dry and happy.

Bolted anchors seminar at VantageApril �7, Sat. - A one-day crag climbing seminar for learning

how to safely break down an anchor and rap off a bolted route. Open to basic grads, crag students, and intermediate students of any level, including first-year. Students do not need to know how to lead a bolted route.

Bring rock shoes, climbing rope if you have one, quick-draws if you have them, at least two double-length slings and/or two daisy chains (personal anchor), at least two locking carabiners, harness, helmet (required), lunch and water. No other climbing pro needed. We’ll also be top-roping for fun! Meet at the up-per parking area (by the Feathers) at 8 a.m. A WDFW permit is required for parking at Vantage. Contact Colt de Wolf with questions, colt0045@gmail.com, 206-352-9113.

Crack seminar at Tieton Royal ColumnsMay 8, Sat. - We will focus on technique while top-roping

crack climbs at Royal Columns. This area offers a variety of single-pitch crack climbs which are sustained in their difficulty. Limit 6. Seminar fee: $35.

Top-ropes will be set up on 5.5 to 5.9 old school alpine rat-ings. This level of climbing is not ideal for beginners. Students should be comfortable leading at the mid-5th class level. This will give the students the opportunity to focus on their technique and push their abilities while on top-rope.

This seminar is ideal for intermediate and crag students or grads. Leader: Ken Dungan, Kendungan@comcast.net. (s3/1-5/5)

Friday nights on the wallVisit Mountaineers Program Center on most Friday nights

for a social and physical workout on the indoor rock and ice walls. Bring your indoor climbing gear for the rock wall. Colored chalk will be provided. If you want to use the ice wall, bring your boots, crampons and helmet, but leave your ice tools at home; loaner tools with filed teeth will be provided. Check The Mountaineers activity listings or Mountaineers Program Center schedule to verify for a specific Friday. The walls will be waiting for you from 6-9 p.m.

5.9 in the Alpine GroupMay �, Sat. - The 5.9 in the Alpine Group is hosting the

group campsite at Eightmile Campground in Icicle Creek near Leavenworth. If you are in the area hiking or participating in a rock field trip and want a place to camp Sat. night, please contact 5-9Alpine@googlegroups.com.

For more information about the 5.9 in the Alpine Group go to http://groups.google.com/group/5-9Alpine.

Winter Mountaineering Group formingThe climbing program is excited to introduce the Winter

Mountaineering Group. This group is part of the set of advanced-level climbing groups (others include water ice, aid, rescue, 5.9 in the alpine and others). However, a basic climbing skill set is a good starting point to follow on some climbs.

The purpose of the group is simply to build a community around winter mountaineering. This includes enabling people to find other winter climbers, and hopefully share their winter climbing adventures with the rest of us.

We have created an online group that you are welcome to join. You can send and receive forum messages all within your e-mail client. The group website also has some files and pages of general interest, like a list of interesting winter climbs to get you excited about, and a schedule of events and activities we will be organizing.

The group website is http://groups.google.com/group/winter-mountaineering.

DancingCo-Chairs: Dennis Bayer, 206-784-4011; Ivan Sleveland, 206-522-1316.Website: www.mountaineers.org/seattle/folkdance.

International Folk DancingThe Seattle Mountaineers International Folk Dancers have a new home in War-

ren G. Magnuson Park at Sand Point; we are dancing in the Brig (Building 406). The Brig has beautiful hardwood floors, plenty of free parking and is located a few buildings NE of The Mountaineers Program Center located in Building 67.

Every Tuesday - Folk dancing Dance just for the fun of it in the Brig at Magnuson Park from 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. Your favorite dance is waiting for you. We have informal lessons taught by our experienced dancers. There’s always something for everyone. Mountaineers members, $5; non-members, $6. Free admission for dancers age 30 and under. Drop-ins are always welcome. No partners necessary; there are plenty of delightful ones here! We’re the friendliest outfit in town. For more information, driv-ing directions, or a map of Magnuson Park, please visit our new website listed above.

Rock & Roll Dance Please visit the Rock & Roll Dance website, www.dbmechanic.com/dances/rock.htm. Still have questions? Contact Karen Lud-wig, 206-484-9187, www.karenludwig2000@yahoo.com.

Family ActivitiesThese are opportunities for families with children to get outside together and

enjoy the great outdoors with other families. Kids learn best from being around other children.

Committee chair: Courtenay Schurman, court@bodyresults.com.Guidelines: See pg. 19, “Sending you on your way,” (first paragraph) for pro-

cedures and rules regarding participation in family activities. If you need to cancel your attendance, please alert the activity leader ahead of time.

Updated information: For impromptu offerings that don’t make it into the Go Guide in time, join the Family Activities group on Yahoo! To receive an invitation, send a request to court@bodyresults.com and you can be alerted to any changes or new listings throughout the winter.

EventsPlease see procedures and guidelines for family activities on pg. 19, “Sending

you on your way.”Want to help? See “Go Volunteer” (pg. 20) if you are inter-ested in sharing your expertise with families this spring and summer.March �, Wed. - St. Edward State Park Early release in Se-attle public schools! Join us for a great early season conditioner for the kids. Parent must accompany child. No dogs, please. Depending on age of children, we’ll do north-south loop or shorten the destination, with rock toss, nurse-log exploration and playtime at the playground afterward. Come dressed for wet conditions. Plan B will follow if day-of weather is really crummy. Meet at hiker’s kiosk at 2:30 p.m. Leader: Courtenay Schurman; if you have questions or need more details contact her at court@bodyresults.com. Registration required online or through program center.March 6-7, Sat.-Sun. - Meany Spring Carnival Fun and games at Meany Lodge for children of all ages and sizes. See “Lodge Going,” pg. 17, for details.March �4, Sun. - Snoqualmie Falls Don’t forget about Daylight Saving Time change on this outing! We’ll meet across from the lodge in parking lot at 10:30 a.m. and stop first at the falls vista for pictures, then continue down toward the base of the falls. Please no dogs. Bring picnic snacks, we’ll eat at the base and then make our way back up the hill. Great first hike for young children. Leader will have almost-6-year-old along. Leader: Courtenay Schurman; court@bodyresults.com. Registration required online or through program center.March �9, Fri. - Carkeek Nature Walk Public school is out for the day! Depending on age of children (leader will have almost-6-year-old along) meeting place and destination/ duration of nature hike will vary. Beachcombing, train spotting, playground and trail walking all possible, adult must have child along and vice versa. Hiking distance not more than 2.5 mi. Bring a picnic lunch or snacks and come dressed for mixed weather. Plan B will be determined day beforehand if weather looks unreliable. Leader: Courtenay Schurman; court@bodyresults.com. Registration required online or through program center.

First Aid (MOFA)Website: www.mountaineers.org/seattle/mofaThe Mountaineering Oriented First Aid (MOFA) Course is

a 24-hour class for the wilderness traveler. The course meets the requirements for the American Red Cross (ARC) Standard First Aid Course with 18 hours of additional wilderness-focused first-aid training. The volunteer instructors are certified by the ARC. The class is often held two evenings a week for four weeks, or for one Saturday plus a full weekend, though some other schedules are sometimes available.

Course fee: $90 for Mountaineers members and $125 for non-members. The fee includes textbooks, which are available the first night of class. MOFA courses held on weekends at Mountaineers lodges cost an additional $70, which covers room and board. When held at Meany Lodge, a Sno-Park permit and a Groomed Trails sticker are required.

Course attendance: Participation is required at all class sessions. The class involves hands-on, interactive learning. Wear casual clothes suitable for working on the ground and outdoors. Arrangements cannot be made to make up class ses-sions. Please do not register for a class unless you can attend all class sessions.

Registration: To register, call member services at 206-521-6001 or sign up online using the activity search, then indicate “First Aid” and don’t limit the dates or the branch. MOFA courses are popular and fill up fast.

Being on a wait list: If a course is full, you may be placed on a wait list. It is your responsibility to check the activity da-tabase or call The Mountaineers to see if you have made it off the wait list. Those people still on the wait list by the last day of enrollment will not be enrolled in the course and will be issued a full refund. If you are enrolled in the class from the wait list, but then wish to cancel, you must notify The Mountaineers at 206-521-6001, or forfeit your course fee entirely.

Cancellations: In order to receive a refund for a MOFA course, the cancellation must be made by the last day of regis-tration. There is a $10 handling fee for cancelled reservations. There are no refunds for no-shows or dropouts. No partial refunds will be given.

MOFA waiver: Currently licensed doctors of medicine, RNs, EMTs and certified wilderness first responders may be eligible for a waiver of the MOFA requirement for Mountaineers courses. Enrollment has closed for the spring waiver session. Check back later.

Next courses: All open courses are listed on The Mountain-eers website, www.mountaineers.org.

HikingHiking Committee: Our next meeting is Tue., March 9, 7 p.m. at Mountaineers

Program Center. All members are welcome! Hiking Website: www.mountaineers.org/seattle/seahike. This website has lots

of good information on hiking leader registration, seminar schedules, hiking trails, carpooling, and how to sign up for a hike.

Hikes Schedule: Please refer to www.mountaineers.org for late-breaking hikes that are listed on the website but not necessarily in the Go Guide. More and more hikes are being listed only on the website.

Hike Leaders: Sign up to lead hikes at www.mountaineers.org. Directions on how to sign up can be found at www.mountaineers.org/seattle/seahike/lead-ers/PostingTrips.html. Trips posted by March 5 will appear in the April Go Guide. Trips posted after March 5 will be on the website, but not necessarily in the Go Guide.

After Hours Hikes (AHH): Join us for midweek fun and conditioning from March through October. The hikes will be generally offered every other Wednesday

starting at 4:30 p.m. More info at www.mountaineers.org/seattle/seahike/Af-terhours/Afterhours.html. Indicates Trailhead event. See pg. 1 for details about Trailhead.

Courses/workshopsBasic Wilderness Travel Course (BWT)

Are you ready to go hiking but aren’t sure where to start? The Basic Wilderness Travel Course (BWT) is a fun way to practice key outdoor travel skills and spend time exploring the mountain trails you’ve read about in guidebooks.

Sponsored by the Seattle Hiking Committee, BWT provides an introduction to topics including backcountry navigation, mountain weather, and conditioning for mountain travel. Our activities and hikes will support and encourage you to develop outdoor skills that will help you enjoy hiking and backpacking in the Pacific Northwest. The course hikes will be organized to go hiking with fellow course students.

We schedule the hikes from April through August (2-3 hikes each month). The easy and moderate hikes (distances 4-9 mi. RT, elevation gains under 2400’) may challenge you physically, and/or provide the opportunity to summit some of the smaller peaks in our beautiful Cascades and Olympic Mountains.

There will be opportunities for more activities with fellow BWT students and Conditioning Hiking Course students during the summer, too. Graduation certificates will be given to students who complete the classroom sessions, required field trips, and go on six Mountaineers hikes by the end of September.

What to expect: The course activities include a shakedown hike, two evening classes with potluck, three field trips (one is optional), a student handbook, and BWT hikes scheduled from April through August. See the table below for the course activ-ity date details

How to enroll: You must be a member of The Mountain-eers to register for this course. There will be one session of this course held this year, and enrollment is limited to 35 people. Register early to reserve your space and get ready for a great spring/summer of hiking. Registration is from Feb. 25 through March 14. Register online, www.mountaineers.org, or via tele-phone, 206-521-6001.

Course fee: $75. As with all club hikes, participants are ex-pected to pay the carpool rate of 12 cents per mile as set by The Mountaineers, if they are riding as a passenger to trailheads.

You will need to be a member of The Mountaineers to register for this course. For more info, contact Susan at mudonmyboots@hotmail.com.

BWT tentative schedule: March 20 or March 21, Sat. or Sun. - Shakedown hikes w/gear

check. Sign up online or call Mountaineers Program Center. Choose only one hike.

March 23, Tue. - Class 1 and potluck at Mountaineers Program Center. Intro orientation and gear checklist, first aid review. Topics include: course orientation, first aid, backcountry ethics/Leave No Trace.

March 28, Sun. - Field Trip 1 (optional). Gear shopping. Time to get your gear. Volunteers will be available for ques-tions while visiting some of the local retailers in Seattle. Meet at Seattle REI.

April 1, Thu. - Class 2 and potluck with Conditioning Hiking Course. Focus on essential systems review, map and compass orientation, nutrition and conditioning for hikes.

April/May (various dates) - Hikes with handbook review of backcountry ethics, nutrition and weather.

June 5, Sat. - Field Trip 3. All-day, trail-work party. Introduc-tion to trail maintenance, work parties and stewardship.

June (various dates) - Day hikes. Review first aid and Leave No Trace.

July/August (various dates) - Day hikes. Sign up online or call Mountaineers Program Center.

Conditioning Hiking Series (CHS) Are you an existing hiker who is interested in challenging

yourself to go on day hikes of 15-plus miles? Have you seen Go Guide trips describing long-distance day hikes and wondered how you could get into shape to participate in those types of hikes? Well, wonder no more!

The Seattle Hiking Committee offers the Conditioning Hik-ing Series starting in April. This course is designed to prepare existing hikers currently experienced at the upper easy/moderate level for the challenges of strenuous, long-distance day hiking. It is also designed to provide a group trip environment in which hikers can build friendships by hiking with many of the same people on each trip.

All hiking trips are limited to the participants in the course. If you have hiked before and already are in fairly good shape (easily able to do hikes rated as “Easy” and “Moderate”), would like to progress to longer and harder hikes as a challenge, are willing to build physical fitness and spend time outside of the course keeping yourself in shape, are able to commit to a sum-mer-long course, and would like to be part of a small group that hikes together, then this is the course for you. Several graduates of the CHS course have said that this is the best course they’ve ever taken with the club, and some have even been inspired to become hike leaders.

What to expect: The CHS course consists of one evening class on Thu., March 25, an optional skills refresher class (date TBD) at The Mountaineers Program Center, and hike offer-ings several times per month from April through August. The classes are designed to teach information needed for longer hike preparation. The hikes are composed of progressively more difficult and longer day hikes, culminating in a graduation hike in September.

Prior to your first hike, you will choose a “track” of fast-paced or moderate-paced hikes, subject to class size and input from the hike leaders. If you are uncertain which level suits you best, a weekend of pacing hikes will be offered in March. A tentative hike schedule for the course will be provided at the first evening class, but past destinations have included season-appropriate hikes in the North Cascades, the Mt. St. Helens area, Eastern Washington, the Olympics, and everywhere in between. Graduation certificates will be given to those who complete the classroom sessions, ten CHS day hikes (two per month), and one CHS graduation hike. One day of trail work will also be required of each participant.

Enrollment: You must be a member of The Mountaineers to register for the course. Registration for the 2010 CHS course is March 1-14. The course fee is $95. As with all club hikes, partici-

Go Guide March 2010 ��Seattle

pants are expected to pay the carpooling fee at 12 cents per mile as set by The Mountaineers, if they are riding as a passenger.

Online or telephone registration will be available. Mail-in registration forms will not be accepted—no exceptions! Enroll-ment will be limited to 70 participants. If the number of enrollees exceeds 70, then we will use either a lottery or member number system to cut the roster to 70 participants. There is no advantage to signing up at the beginning of the registration period. Those not selected will be notified by e-mail and will receive a full refund of the course fee.

More information: Contact Kelly Cleman, 360-563-0320, masterhiker@gmail.com, or Steve Payne, 253-315-0426, stevepayne@mindspring.com. An information session about CHS and the Basic Wilderness Travel (BWT) Course will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Wed., Feb. 24, at The Mountaineers Program Center. Please attend if you would like to find out more before enrolling.

Beginning Hiker SeminarMarch �8, Thu. - At Mountaineers Program Center,

6:30-9 p.m. Learn what to put in your pack, how to dress for comfort and safety, and what to expect on a Mountaineers hike. Experienced Mountaineers hiking leaders will discuss clothing, boots, pack, the Ten Essentials, seasonal trail hazards, where to shop for equipment (and save money), and how to research your hikes.

This seminar is designed to answer questions a beginning hiker or new Mountaineers member may have about how to get started. We will show samples of our equipment and show pictures of some of our favorite places to hike. Informational handouts are included. There is no fee for this seminar. You don’t have to be a Mountaineers member to attend.

Though there is no fee, we strongly encourage you to register for this seminar so that your instructor can make enough handout materials available. You may register either through the on-line registration system or by calling The Mountaineers Program Center directly, 206-521-6001.

For more info contact Kelly Cleman, masterhiker@gmail.com, 360-563-0320 (12/21-1/19)

Potluck, slideshowMarch 25, Thu. - Hiker Potluck & Slide Show Europe’s

mountains, Switzerland & Romania: Inn-to-Inn or Hut-to-Hut: two choices for through hiking. Join us for a fun information-filled presentation by John and Amy Osaki, former park rangers turned hiking leaders for Mountain Hiking Holidays.

Begin with inn-to-inn hiking in Switzerland, and hike from Meiringen across alpine passes with views of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau peaks, and create classic Swiss Alps memories of flower-filled meadows, glacier-clad peaks, and family-run com-fortable mountain inns. For a more rustic and rugged experience, traverse Romania’s Fagaras Mountains on a hut-to-hut trek.

Hike in the land of Dracula on a five-day continuous route climbing from the valley, through thick forest, into sub-alpine and alpine meadows, to gain an open ridge that includes the three highest peaks of Romania.

Shelter each night in basic mountain huts, and reward yourself with day after day of 360-degree panoramas of a sea of peaks and ridges dotted with alpine tarns. The event will be held 6:15-9 p.m. at The Mountaineers Program Center. No registration or fee. Open to members and non-members. Anyone who is a hiker, has thought about hiking, enjoys good company or wants to find out about or share good places to go hiking, is invited to the potluck and show.

The potluck starts at 6:15 p.m., the presentation at 7 p.m. Bring a dish and something to drink. Plates and utensils will be provided. Contact hikermountaineer@verizon.net for more information.

HikesFeb. 27, Sat. - Big Soos Creek (E) 6 mi., no gain. Meet at10 a.m., Meeting Place: Gary Grant Park, Drive Time: 15 mins.. Footsore 1 We should see some early signs of spring activity along the trail. Social pace. Meet at Gary Grant Park in Renton at 10 a.m. Leader: Sylvia Cavness, 253-939-6912, sylviacavness@juno.com. (s2/15-2/25)Feb. 28, Sun. - Lord Hill Regional Park (EM) 8 mi., 500’ gain. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at TH. 3/4 hr. Hike a lush urban wilderness, home to a wide array of wildlife, including bears, cougars and bobcats (not to mention a beaver or two). Leader: Gregg Pilgreen, 425-485-2686, stevetahoma@verizon.net. (s2/16-2/25)

March 4, Thu. - Bivy Basics: Avoiding the Wet Match Ca-tastrophe You know you need the Ten Essential Systems, right? Take them to where the rubber meets the road. This hands-on, two-part series will consist of one evening clinic to review gear and present a show-and-tell, plus a day hike with a destination that to serve as a testing ground for your emergency gear. The hike is listed separately on March 13, and sign up for this clinic is independent of signing up for the hike. Sign up for one or the other, or both. Feel free to bring your gear for discussions and opinions. For more details contact instructor Jack Nichols: jmongol@yahoo.com, 206-755-1511. Event fees: $10 members, $15 non-members.

March 7, Sun. - Middle Fork Snoqualmie River (M) 12 mi., 800’ gain. Limit 10. Meet at 9 a.m. at Tibbett’s P&R, Issaquah. Leader: Chris Caviezel, 425-434-0899, chris.caviezel@gmail.com. (s2/22-3/6)

March ��, Sat. - Bivy Basics: Avoiding the Wet Match Catastrophe Part 2 of the event listed for March 4. This outing is designed to provide a hands-on test of your emergency gear while enjoying a moderate daly hike. Learn what experienced folks use and have done. Lots of fun, and maybe a few reality checks on what it really means to implement an emergency bivy in a controlled setting. Note: There will be nothing hardcore about this test of essentials, but we’ll explore issues such as, “how well will that fire starter really work?” or, “will all my clothes plus an emergency blanket keep me warm?” and, “how well can I set up that makeshift shelter?” The focus here will be on safety and fun; no misery required. Also: Leave No Trace ethics will be closely followed during this event. For more details contact instructor Jack Nichols: jmongol@yahoo.com, 206-755-1511.Event fees: $10 members, $15 non-members.March ��, Sat. - Cowiche Canyon (E) 6 mi., 100’ gain. Meet at 7:30 a.m., at Preston P&R. 2 hrs. Break out the wildflower books, binoculars and cameras for this hike through a pristine canyon. Wildflowers begin to bloom here from mid- to late-

March, and Cowiche Canyon is one of the sites found on the Audubon Society’s Sun & Sage Loop of the Great Washington State Birding Trail map. If the flowers disappoint this year, the geology of Cowiche Canyon will not. The RT hike through the canyon with side-trips to the uplands is approximately 8 mi. with a 400’ gain. Cowiche Canyon is on the outskirts of Yakima. Meet at Preston P&R at 7:30 a.m. Leader: Mary Rohlman, 206-523-1243, MRohlman@gmail.com. (s3/1-3/12)

March �4, Sun. - W. Tiger Rambler (M) 11 mi., 2000’ gain. Limit 12. Meet at 9 a.m., at TH. Hike #6: Beyond Mt. Si. Leader: Chris Caviezel, 425-434-0899, chris.caviezel@gmail.com. (s3/1-3/13)March �8, Thu. - Seven Hills of Seattle (M) 8 mi., 800’ gain. Limit 12. Meet at 5 p.m. at Ross Playground. Hike seven hills of Seattle: Queen Anne, Denny, Capitol, Renton, First, Yesler and Beacon. A different version of the normal ‘Seven Hills’ route. Bring warm clothes/raingear and $ for dinner along the way. Will be visiting Woodland Park, Ravenna Park, Union Bay Nature Area, Montlake Cut, Interlaken Park, Volunteer Park, South Lake Union Park, Queen Anne and Fremont Hill Park. Approximately 15 mi. and 1200’ elevation gain/loss. Leader: Dave Morgan, 206-659-9833, go.climbing@gmail.com. (s1/3-3/17)March 20, Sat. - Lake Youngs Perimeter Trail (EM) 9 mi., 900’ gain. Leader: Sylvia Cavness, 253-939-6912, sylviacavness@juno.com. (s3/8-3/18)

March 2�, Sun. - Rattlesnake Grand Traverse (S) 12 mi., 2600’ gain. Limit 10. Meet at 9 a.m. at TH near Exit #27. One-way car shuttle from Rattlesnake Lake to Winery along Rattlesnake Ridge. Leader: Chris Caviezel, 425-434-0899, chris.caviezel@gmail.com. (s3/8-3/20)

Midweek HikesChair: Joe Toynbee, 425-228-6118. Questions? Call Joe or Kathy Biever,

206-283-9047, or Ruth Godding, 425-836-9873.Note: Registration instructions are included with each trip descrip-

tion. Opening and closing dates are shown in parentheses fol-lowing each trip. Trip classifications are the same as those list-ed under Hiking. For trail guidebooks, see pg. 1 of the Go Guide. Hikes in the Issaquah area will meet at the Issaquah Trail Center (ITC) in Issaquah instead of Tibbett’s Field. Directions to the center are as follows: Take I-90 Exit 17 and turn right. Go about 1 mi. to the light on Sunset, then go two more blocks to Bush St. and turn left. Go two blocks and you will see the yellow ITC building and parking area on your left.

March �, Mon. - Everett to Issaquah, Part � (M) Everett to Ash Way P&R. 10 mi., 300’ gain. Limit 20. Meet at 9:45 a.m. at Everett Transit Center, 3201 Smith Ave. We’ll walk on Everett City sidewalks and Interurban Trail from Everett Transit Center (3201 Smith Ave.) to Ash Way P& R (164th St. SW & Ash Way). are co-leaders. Sign up online or via the program center. Bring or buy lunch. Busing to and from hike strongly recommended. Co-leaders: Ron McConnell, 425-451-2142; Kathy Biever, 206-283-9047, eskay39@comcast.net. (s2/16-2/25)March �, Wed. - E. Tiger Mtn. Loop (S) (Tiger Mtn. 204S-GT) 10 mi., 3400’ gain. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at E. end High Point frontage road (Exit 20 on I-90). We’ll follow a combination of well-known and little-traveled trails on this cherry-stem loop to Tiger’s highest peak. No registration, members only. Leader: Ralph Owen, 425-746-1070, hiker99ralph@comcast.net. (s1/5-3/3)March 5, Fri. - Sundial Search: Four Timely Treks, Trek #4 (M) 10 mi., 1000’’ gain. Limit 20. Meet 10 a.m. at Lakeside High School gymnasium (N. 145th St. & 1st Ave. N.E.). Meander on streets and paths to see sundials at Lakeside School, Richmond Beach Park, and Edmonds Woodway High School. Bring lunch to consume at Richmond Beach Park. Sign up online or with the program center. Busing to and from hike strongly encouraged. Leader: Kathy Biever, 206-283-9047, eskay39@comcast.net. (s2/22-3/3)March 9, Tue. - Lower Tiger Traverse (EM) (Tiger Mtn. 204S-GT) 7 mi., 1000’ gain. Meet 9 a.m. at the ITC (see preamble). One-way hike from Preston to Issaquah with car shuttle. No registration, members only. Leader: Suzanne Stockton, 425-643-0395, hikingrandma@yahoo.com. (s1/30-3/9)March �0, Wed. - Echo Mtn. (E) 5 mi., 1000’ gain. Meet 9 a.m., at ITC (see preamble), 25 mi. RT drive to TH. A loop hike with an easy climb to the mossy bald summit of Echo Mtn. (Cedar Mtn.). We’ll enjoy views of Mt. Rainier and Tiger Mtn. from the top (weather permitting) and visit two little lakes en route. No registration, members only. Leader: Peggy Owen, 425-746-1070, hikerpeggy38@comcast.net. (s1/30-3/10)March ��, Thu - Squak Mtn. Loop (MS) (Cougar Mtn. 203S-GT) 9 mi., 1500’ gain. Meet 9 a.m., at Squak Mtn SP. May Valley Rd, . Mad Mtn. Beaver Way, Bullitt Gorge Tr., Perimeter Loop Tr., Chybinski Loop Tr., East Side Tr., Thrush Gap, Phil’s Creek and Equestrian Loop Tr. Register with leader: Patricia Osterholm, 206-817-5372, poster@holdenvillage.org. (s2/26-3/10)March �6, Tue. - Rattlesnake Mtn. (E) (Rattlesnake Mtn., 205S-GT) 4.5 mi., 800’ gain. 9:30 a.m., at ITC (see preamble). Nice hike out to western edge of Rattlesnake with views of Tiger Mtn. Slow pace. No registration. Leader: Fred Zeitler, 425-882-3435, MarianZZZ@comcast.net. (s2/2-3/16)March �7, Wed. - Everett to Issaquah, Part 2 Ash Way to Aurora Village P&R (EM) 7.5 mi., 300’’ gain. Meet 9:45 a.m., at Ash Way P&R (164th St. S.W. & Ash Way). Hike the Interurban Trail from Ash Way P&R to Aurora Village (Hwy. 99 & N. 200th). Bring or buy lunch. Sign up online or with the program center. Busing to and from hike strongly recommended. Co-leaders: Ron McConnell, 425-451-2142; Kathy Biever, 206-283-9047, eskay39@comcast.net. (s3/4-3/15)March �9, Fri. - Grand Ridge Park (EM) 6-7 mi., 1000-1200’ gain. Meet 9 a.m. at TH parking lot off of I-90 Exit 20 (across from High Point; at exit, turn left under I-90 and then left into the parking lot.) Winter hike up and past Highlands development, then possibly to Issaquah Fall City Rd. Possible car shuttle de-pending on trail conditions. Sign up with leader: Ruth Godding, 425-836-9873, rhgodding@comcast.net. (s3/4-3/17)March 26, Fri. - Light-footing to Lighthouses—Hike #� Point Robinson (M) 10 mi., 800’’ gain. Meet 9:15 a.m., at Fauntle-roy Ferry Dock. We’ll take 9:25 a.m. ferry from Fauntleroy to Vashon, then bus to Vashon Hwy S.W. & S.W. Quartermaster Dr. Bring lunch to eat at the lighthouse. Sign up online or with program center. Co-leaders: Julie Miller, 206-283-1406, miller.jz@comcast.net; Kathy Biever, 206-283-9047. (s3/15-3/24)March �0, Tue. - Discovery Park (EM) 5.5 mi., slight’ gain.

Meet 9:30 a.m., at N. side of Discovery Park, Environmental Learning Center. We’ll walk the perimeter of the park to explore the bluff, woods, beach and historical housing. Sign up online or with program center. Leader: Janice Miller, 425-746-7870, lvs2garden@earthlink.net. (s3/15-3/29)April �, Thu. - APRIL FOOL’S DAY HIKE (EM) 6 mi., 1000’ gain. Meet 7:45 a.m. at ITC (see preamble). Leader is not disclos-ing the destination. Come prepared with your Ten Essentials and lunch—it will take the whole day. Make no other plans for late afternoon! Don’t push it. Sign up online or with the program center. Leader: Rosie Bodien, 425-828-0170, rosie@bodien.org. (s3/20-3/31)

Naturalist HikesNaturalists website: www.mountaineers.org/seattle/naturalists (updated

monthly)

Study GroupRegistration for the 2010 Naturalists Study Group remains

open. The Study Group is for members who want to keep learning about plants and animals in the Northwest. Study group members who enrolled in prior years do not need to re-register. For more information, check the Seattle Naturalists website, or contact Don Schaechtel, don.safety@verizon.net.

Intro to the Natural World CourseEnrollment is open for this course, in which you will

learn how to identify common plants and animals with the aid of a field guide. With practice, you will be able to iden-tify many common species from memory and anticipate finding them based on when and where you are traveling. There are four lectures and four field trips. Check the Naturalists website for additional details.

Classroom dates (Tuesdays):May 18June 8June 22July 20Field trips are typically held the following weekend but

some evening sessions may be arranged. The first two field trips are local half-day trips, and the second two are full-day trips to Teanaway and Mt. Rainier.

TripsLeaders are organizing trips for March. Frequently check the activity database

for upcoming trips. The Naturalists web page has a direct link to the activity database and returns all upcoming trips.

NavigationCommittee chair: Lynn Graf, lynn.graf@gmail.com.Navigation website: For the most up-to-date information on navigation,

including instructor registration, details of required homework assignments (which you must complete before attending the workshop), navigation card replacement, and compass requirements, see the website: www.mountain-eers.org/seattle/navigation.

Basic Navigation CourseThe Basic Navigation Course is offered every year in No-

vember, February and March. (See current course dates below.) Learn how to get more info out of your map. Learn how to figure out the proper bearing for your destination and learn how to follow them in the great outdoors. Get a head start on your course requirements.

The course consists of a map and compass workshop (one full evening) and a challenging field trip (one full day at Hey-brook Ridge, about 1500’ of elevation gain and considerable off-trail travel). Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a navigation card. Basic Navigation Course is required for courses in basic climbing, snowshoe and alpine scrambling, as well as some ski classes. The course is strongly recommended for all hike leaders and backcountry skiers, and is useful for hikers.

Fee: $35. See the Navigation website for additional informa-tion or contact info.

How to register: Members can enroll online. This is a three-step process: Register online and pay for “Basic Navigation Course-Seattle,” then register for one workshop, and finally, register for one field trip (workshop needs to be completed prior to field trip). Non-members of The Mountaineers should enroll via the program center at 206-521-6001.

Workshops—All workshops are held at The Mountaineers Program Center in Magnuson Park, Seattle. Arrive at 6:45 p.m. to prepare for the 7 p.m. session. Have maps and compass dec-linations ready. The dates are:

March 10, Wed.March 15, Mon.There will be one Eastside workshop this spring in Redmond,

date TBD.Field trips—All day events at Heybrook Ridge. The remain-

ing dates are:March 20-21, Sat.-Sun.There are no more classes or field trips until November of

this year.What you need to bring to the workshop:• USGS Mt Baring 7.5’ topographic map • USGS Index 7.5’ topographic map • Pencils & paper • A working familiarity with the book, “Wilderness Naviga-

tion,” by Burns and Burns.• Read it before the first workshop.• Appropriate compass with declination adjustment (17° E).

See the navigation website for acceptable models.

Instructors neededExperienced navigators and those who have completed the

Basic Navigation Course in previous years are welcome to help us instruct the course. We welcome both new and experienced instructors at the workshops and field trips. It's a great way to renew your navigation skills and get to know others in The Mountaineers community. If you have any questions, contact Lynn Graf, lynn.graf@gmail.com, 206-632-8117. Thanks to all of you who volunteered this season.

�2 March 2010 Go Guide Seattle

Photography

Photography course The Basic Photography Course is designed for the begin-

ning and intermediate photographer. Four weekly evening classes offer instruction in film and digital camera operation, exposure settings, light direction and quality, composition, and design. Optional half-day classroom workshops on Saturdays will feature “Getting to Know Your Camera,” “Introduction to Digital Photography,” and “Close-Up Photography,” all at no additional cost.

The course also provides optional half-day weekend field workshops which give students hands-on experience relating to the course topics and provide opportunities for individual instruction. A potluck is held on the final Sunday, when students can share their work. A course notebook is provided.

Schedule: The Basic Photography Course meets Tuesday evenings from 7-9:15 p.m. on March 2, 9, 16 and 23 at Moun-taineers headquarters in Magnuson Park. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for check-in, coffee, socializing and exhibits. Class begins promptly at 7 p.m. The final student review and potluck meal will be held Sun., March 28,

A complete schedule of the weekend workshops and outdoor workshops will be provided with your registration confirma-tion.

Registration and course fee: The course costs $115 for Mountaineers members and $125 for non-members. Online registration is available. Enrollment officially closed on Feb. 26 but walk-up registration is available for individual sessions. For more information, visit www.mountaineers.org/seattle/pho-tography or contact course coordinator Rick Good, r_good_jr@yahoo.com, 206-542-5085.

EventsPotluck and Image Presentation Postponed: There will be no potluck meeting in March due to our Basic Photography Course. Potluck meetings resume again in April. Leader: Herb Johnson, 206-523-4544, wherbjohn@msn.com.

Retired RoversChair: Wally Walton, 206-417-6385, wallywalton72@msn.com. All Moun-

taineers are welcome at Retired Rovers events. For information contact the chair.

Note: In addition to events listed below, our Retired Rovers also enjoy participat-ing in Midweek Hikes and Naturalists trips (check those sections). If you need advice on the best hikes for you, feel free to call any of the hike leaders.

EventsMarch 9, Tue. - Brown Bag Lunch Meeting, Program and Walk 11 a.m. at club headquarters. Bring your own “brown bag”—we will provide coffee and tea. Enjoy lunch with your friends, and also meet new ones. If the weather is good enough, all who want to can walk a part of Magnuson Park. At this meet-ing you will hear about upcoming events. The program will be given by longtime Mountaineer and frequent Midweek Hikes leader, Kathy Biever, and her husband, Keith. To celebrate her 70th birthday last April, Kathy walked the 237 mi. from Boston to New York in 18 days. Keith planned her route based on the Boston Post Road that John Adams followed on horseback in l776 on his way to Philadelphia to create the Declaration of Independence, as described by David McCullough in his book, “John Adams.” Much of the route is on the National Register of Historic Places.March �6, Tue. - Golden Gardens to Chittendon Locks 10:30 a.m. Meet in picnic area near Golden Gardens Bathhouse, 8498 Seaview Pl. N.W., served by Metro bus No. 46, Shilshole. We’ll walk about 2 mi. to the locks to check out the garden and perhaps spot some salmon in the fish ladder. The walk is on level ground and all paved. Bring a sack lunch and we can eat at the locks before walking back. For questions, contact hike leader, David Biek, 206-518-1855, davidbiek@clearwire.net.March 25, Thu. - Explore Edmonds Waterfront and Histori-cal Museum Meet at 10 a.m. at leader Nedra Slauson’s house, 19715 83rd Pl. W., Edmonds, to drive together to the area S. of the ferry. We will walk the beach as far as the group wants and then return. Please bring a brown-bag lunch for a picnic along the beach. The Historical Museum, which opens at 1 p.m., includes a reconstructed room of the Stevens Hotel of 1894, a model shingle mill like many that once filled the waterfront, and a diorama of the original townsite of 1910. Exquisite paper dolls from the past 100 years will be the featured temporary exhibit. For driving directions, call Nedra, 425-771-4532. Carpooling is encouraged. Significant rain will cancel the morning walk, but we’ll still go to the museum at 1 p.m.

SailingCheck out our website at www.mountaineers.org/seattle/sailing.

Basic Crewing CourseRegister now for the Basic Crewing Course. Graudation from

the course will place you on the crew list, thus enabling you to sail without cost on any of The Mountaineers sails.

The course consists of classroom lessons, on-the-dock train-ing and actual sails, and assumes little or no knowledge of sail-boats. There will be four evening classes, held on Wednesdays: March 31, April 7, April 21 and April 28 from 7 to 9 p.m.

After completion of the course, you will:– Be able to rig a basic sloop-rigged sailboat– Be able to assist in departing from and arriving at a dock

under power– Have a basic understanding of sail trim and sailboat ma-

neuvering– Understand basic personal gear requirements and safety

practices for sailing under conditions which may be encountered during Mountaineers sails

– Have a basic understanding of charts and navigation aids– Be able to function as a crew member during a sail.Register online or through The Mountaineers Program Cen-

ter. Course fee is $95.

Day sailsFirst sign up online or via a call to the program center, the contact the skipper

on the following sails.March 6, Sat. - Noon. Shilshole Marina, Slip E-19. To Puget Sound. Catalina 42’ Blue Fin. 6 crew + skipper. Skipper: Alan Vogt, 206-295-8788. (s2/23-3/4)March ��, Sat. - �� a.m. Shilshole Marina. To Port Madison for raft-up with Blue Fin. Beneteau 30’ Ca Va! 4 crew + skipper. Skipper: Hal Tobie, 206-242-9658. (s3/2-3/11)March ��, Sat. - �� a.m. Shilshole Marina, Slip E-19. To Port Madison for raft-up with Ca Va! Catalina 42’ Blue Fin. 6 crew + skipper. Skipper: Alan Vogt, 206-295-8788. (s3/2-3/11)March 20, Sat. - �� a.m. Shilshole Marina, Slip E-19. To Port Madison for raft-up with Ca Va! Catalina 42’ Blue Fin. 6 crew + skipper. Skipper: Alan Vogt, 206-295-8788. (s3/9-3/18)March 20, Sat. - �� a.m. Shilshole Marina. To Port Madison for raft-up with Blue Fin. Beneteau 30’ Ca Va! 3 crew + skipper. Skipper: Hal Tobie, 206-242-9658. (s3/9-3/18)March 2�, Sun. - noon. Shilshole Marina, Slip E-19. To Puget Sound. Catalina 42’ Blue Fin. 6 crew + skipper. Skipper: Alan Vogt, 206-295-8788. (s3/9-3/18)

Sea KayakingSea Kayaking Committee: The committee normally meets at 7 p.m. the first

Tuesday of the month at Mountaineers headquarters. Chair: George Swapp, 206-770-9099Co-Chair: Annette Brigham, 206-322-3922 Secretary: Alice LairdBasic Class: Kim Frasher at, 206-465-6175Equivalency: Dede Chinlund, dchinlund@comcast.net, and Kim Frasher, Kim.

Frasher@gmail.com,206-465-6175.Naturalist: Sarah Miller, 206-361 6301, sarah@seanet.comLeadership: Sharon R inda l a t sharon . r inda l5@comcast .ne t

Policy: Kirt LeonardSafety: Bob LairdSocial: Felicia Wibowo, 206-525 2490Special programs: Felicia Wibowo, 206-525-2490 Training: Mike Kennedy and Carol Asplund, 206-633-3948 Treasurer: Carol Asplund, 206-633-3948Trips: Leslie Carpenter, 206-417-0729, acarpntr@aol.com; Sharon Rindal,

sharon.rindal5@comcast.net.Web Page: Brian High chikakluk@gmail.com

Related websitesSeattle Mountaineers Kayak: www.mountaineers.org/Seattle/kayak Marine Weather: www.seawfo.noaa.gov/products/CWFSEA Puget Sound Shoreline Aerial Photos: www.ecy.wa.gov/apps/shorephotos Puget Sound boat launch sites: www.boat.iac.wa.gov

EquivalencyIf you are interested in obtaining equivalency from Mountaineers Sea Kayaking

(Seattle Branch), please contact Dede Chinlund or Kim Frasher (contact information above) for an application. Equivalency usually takes 3-4 weeks to process after your application is received. In order to receive equivalency, you must have taken a fundamental sea kayaking course that teaches basics in such skills as paddling, bracing, rescues, safety and clothing, or have significant experience and knowledge to demonstrate such skills. A demonstration paddle is required for applicants whose skills or experience are not clear to the equivalency team.

Basic Sea Kayaking CourseIf visiting some of the most dynamic places on the planet,

bird watching, or just slipping onto a lake after work with new friends interests you, then the Seattle Branch Sea Kayaking Basics Course is for you.

To participate in Mountaineers-sponsored kayak trips, you must be a graduate or continuing student of this course or have received equivalency. No prior sea kayaking knowledge or ex-perience is required to participate in this course.

Course Overview: The Sea Kayaking Basics course is offered once each year by the Seattle Branch. All instruction is offered in single sea kayaks. Most of the instruction in this course is based on the principles developed by the American Canoe Association; an increasing number of our instructors are certified by that nationally acclaimed organization. Through a series of lectures and on-water instruction the following topics are covered:

• Equipment used in coastal kayaking• Cold water - and how to dress for it• Knowledge of the sea: weather, waves, tides and currents• Rescues and the importance of teamwork• Safety at sea: charts, navigation, buoyage, communication,

and marine rules of the road• Paddling and maneuvering skills - the effects of wind,

waves and current• Physical conditioning• Protection of the marine environmentThis course consists of four classroom sessions, one 3-hour

pool session, and an all-day open-water session.Registration: To register you must be a current member of

The Mountaineers. Registration is open. Enrollment is limited to 72. This course typically fills promptly, so please register early. Please review the course dates carefully and confirm that your schedule will permit you to attend all activities. Make-ups are not possible. No refunds will be made after the course starts.

Classroom Sessions:Class #1: Wed., March 24, 6:30-9:30 p.m.Class #2: Tue., March 30, 6:30-9:30 p.m.Class #3: Thu., April 8, 6:30-9:30 p.m.Class #4: Wed., April 14, 6:30-9:30 p.m.Pool Session (� hrs.; choose one of following times):Sun., March 28 – 8-11 a.m., or 11 a.m.-2 p.m., or 2-5 p.m.Juanita Pool, Kirkland. Ability to swim 50-yards without

flotation is required. Students must have adequate physical ability to re-enter a kayak after capsize (instruction provided).

Open-Water Session (full day; choose a date)Sat., April 10 or Sun., April 11, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Matthews

Beach, Seattle. Paddling and maneuvering skills.Graduation requirements (successfully complete the fol-

lowing by Sept. �0, 20�0):• Attend all four classroom sessions in their entirety.• Successfully complete the pool session, including 50-yard

swim without flotation. Note: You must have adequate physical ability to re-enter a capsized boat.

• Successfully complete the open-water session, demonstrat-ing cold-water exit and boat re-entry.

• Successfully complete two club-sponsored paddles of at least four hours; one must be on saltwater.

• Student demonstration of cold-water exits and kayak re-

entries required.• Two Mountaineers qualifying paddles to be completed by

Sept. 30. At least one qualifying paddle must be on saltwater. Quali-fying paddles are at least four hours.in duration, or about 8 nm.

Qualifying paddles will be posted on The Mountaineers website and Go Guide beginning in April.

Course Fees: $195 payable upon registration. The course fee covers boat and equipment rental for the pool session, dry-suit rental for the open-water session, guest lecturers during the classroom session and some classroom materials. No refunds will be made after the course starts (an exception will be made for the dry suit rental fee if you furnish your own).

Additional Costs: For the open-water session, each student is required to have a single sea kayak with bulkheads or approved flotation. For those needing to rent a boat, arrangements will be made to have kayaks brought to the open-water sessions. Students will be required to pay for kayak rentals separately from the course fee. Kayak rental fees will be approximately $65 including tax for the day.

For the two qualifying paddles, students will be responsible for providing their own kayak. Those who do not own or have access to a single kayak with bulkheads or approved flotation will need to rent one. Single kayaks are required throughout the course, because kayak skills are best learned in singles.

While the club will schedule some qualifying paddles at locations where rentals are available, it will be the student’s responsibility to arrange for a rental for each trip. Students will also be responsible for transporting boats to and from the launch site if rentals are not available there.

Immersion gear, typically a dry-suit or a wetsuit with paddle jacket (at the trip leader’s discretion), is also required for Moun-taineers paddles.

Kayak rental (including PFD, paddle, spray skirt, bilge pump and paddle float) is approximately $65/day plus tax. Dry-suit rental is approximately $35/day plus tax. Wetsuits may be acceptable for some warm-weather paddles. Rental cost is ap-proximately $15/day plus tax.

For more details about the Basic Sea Kayaking Course, send an e-mail to SeattleMountaineers.SKBasics@gmail.com, or call Kim Frasher, 206-465-6175, or Barbara Stein, 206-633-1793.

Trips Trips are open to all Mountaineers who have graduated from our course

or have been granted equivalency. Contact Dede Chinlund, dchinlund@comcast.net, if you think you might qualify for equivalency. Sign up with the designated trip leader unless otherwise indicated. The sea kayaking group follows the procedures listed in the “Sending you on your way” section on pg. 19 of this Go Guide when signing up through club headquarters. Please contact the leader as soon as possible to cancel if you are unable to attend after signing up. The “sea kayak essentials” as listed on pg. 19 are required and the trip leader may require additional equipment. Call the trip leader if there are any questions.

Late Breaking Trip Announcements: Some trips may not make it into the Go Guide. We suggest visiting the activities search page at www.mountaineers.org for late-breaking trips.

Advance noticeMay �-2, Sat. -Sun. - Hanford Reach National Monument (SK II/III). Paddle the last free-flowing stretch of the Colum-bia River. This will be a scenic trip. We will start at the Vernita Bridge and paddle down to the Ringold Fish Hatchery take-out and camp. An optional hike at the Wahluke National Wildlife Refuge, White Bluffs, and/or Saddle Mountains will be offered Sunday. Sign up with leader, Felicia Wibowo, feliciawibowo@hotmail.com. (s4/2-4/24)May 8, Sat. - Everett Harbor, Jetty Island and Vicinity (SKII) Student-oriented paddle around Jetty Island and vicinity. Birds and marine life to observe, plus an opportunity to practice skills and rescues. Immersion gear (wetsuit or dry-suit) required. Sign up with leader only (s4/15-5/5). For additional details, contact leader: Kirt Lenard, kirlen2000@yahoo.com, 425-894-7790.May 29, Sat. - Seahurst Park to Lincoln Park (SKII) 8 nm. Want to practice the skills you were introduced to at the open-water session? This is your chance! Join the best instructors available for a fun day of paddling, practice and play. We will launch from Seahurst Park and paddle to Lincoln Park to have lunch and paddle back. Dry-suit is required. This is a qualifying paddle for graduation. Kayak Academy will deliver your boats, dry-suits and safety gear to the launch site. Contact Barbara Gronseth, 206-527-1825, to reserve and make your payment. We need your reservation no later than May 15. Don’t wait. This trip fills up fast! Contact trip leader: Alice Laird, 253-856-1016.

Volunteer opportunitiesClass mentor: Attend mentor training on Wed., March 17.

Be a class mentor at all four evening classroom sessions, 6:30-9:30 p.m. at club headquarters (March 24, March 30, April 8, and April 14). Work with your mentor-partner to bring specified gear and clothing to relevant class sessions. Respond to student questions for the duration of the course. Continue working with the students in your group through summer/early fall and until they have completed their two required paddles. Possibly arrange for a student paddle with your mentor group.

Pool instructor: Attend train-the-trainer session on Sat., March 20, from 1 to 5 pm, at the Juanita Pool, Kirkland. Instruct at least two sessions at the Juanita Pool on Sun., March 28.

Shore helper: Provide on-shore support for the open-water sessions on Sat., April 10, and Sun., April 11. Help check-in students, issue gear, assist with dry-suits, and unload/load boats, assemble; help count gear at end of session.

To volunteer: Send an e-mail to SeattleMountaineers.SKBasics@gmail.com, or call Kim Frasher, 206-465-6175, or Barbara Stein, 206-633-1793.

Singles All Mountaineers members are welcome at all Singles events. Carpools are

encouraged to save the environment and reduce global warming. A restaurant stop after hikes is normal.

For a complete updated list of hikes and social events that may not be listed in the Go Guide and for online registration, go to www.mountaineers.org and the “Activities” link.

Activity Information Website: Also, for further information about the singles section, see our website: www.mountaineers.org/ssingles.

Singles Committee leaders (contact between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.)Chair: Lawrence Landauer, 425-844-4330, lawrenceglennlandauer@yahoo.

com

Go Guide March 2010 ��Seattle-Tacoma

Secretary/Webmaster: George Liu, 206-320-1136, kayaker@war-is-hell.comTreasurer: Steve Sears, 425-821-5945, SMSears@comcast.net Hiking: Jerry Wheeler 206-242-9344, born2hike@hotmail.comSocial Events: Karen Ludwig, 206-484-9187, karenludwig2000@yahoo.comLodges/ELC: Eldon Ball, 206-366-8405, eldonball@juno.comDancing: Karen Ludwig, 206-484-9187, karenludwig2000@yahoo.com

Leader/Work Party Incentives: Earn annual trailhead parking or Sno-Park permits by leading five or more Go Guide listed, Seattle Singles hikes and/or cross-country ski outings, and recording trip reports on the website or leading two trail work parties. Permits will be awarded for the season following partici-pation. Contact Eldon Ball, 206-366-8405, eldonball@juno.com, for details. Sign up now to lead and earn your permits.

Fellow Mountaineers—If you enjoy the activities and events that the Singles Committee presents, then it is time to help. This is a volunteer organization. The more who help, the better we can do. Volunteers are needed for the committee, the R&R Dance subcommittee, and to lead hikes and social events. Contact the committee members listed above.

OutingsLeaders needed for hikes or outings in May. By March 25, contact Monty Pratt,

206-718-8812, westseattle207@yahoo.com.March 7, Sun. - Oyster Dome (M) (USGS Bow/ Bellingham S.) 6 mi., 1900’ gain. Meet 9:30 a.m. at TH off Chuckanut Drive.1-1/2 hrs. Visiting bat caves is an option. This is a nice, simple wilderness hike. We hike to a butte with beautiful views including the San Juan Islands. Robert Pankl, 206-729-0162, pankl@earthlink.net. (s2/26-3/4) F3March ��, Sat. - Middle Fork Snoqualmie River (M) (Sno-qualmie Pass/Skykomish) 13 mi., 800’ gain. Meet 9 a.m. on S. side QFC parking lot in North Bend. 1/2 hr. Craggy peaks, rushing river and old-growth cedars. NWFP. Jerry Wheeler, 206-242-9344, born2hike@hotmail.com. (s3/4-3/11) ALMarch 20, Sat. - Spada Lake (M) 10 mi., 500’ gain. Meet 8 a.m. at Brickyard P&R. 1/3 hr. From Olney Pass, hike the roads in either direction around Spada Lake. Road hike in the city of Everett watershed. Brian Carpenter, 206-324-6140, brianc110@earthlink.net. (s3/1-3/18) March 20, Sat. - St. Edward State Park (M) 7 mi., 1100’ gain. Meet 8:30 a.m. at seminary parking lot. Come explore this gem of a state park. Located on the grounds of a former seminary, this hike winds through a beautiful, quiet forest of fern-covered ravines down to one of the last remaining undeveloped areas on the shore of Lake Washington. Gregg S. Pilgreen, 425-485-2686, stevetahoma@verizon.net. March 27, Sat. - Mt. Si via Old Trail (S) (Mt. Si/Bandera/USGS North Bend) Meet 9 a.m. at location TBD. Plan to do a loop trip: up via old Si trail, back down the new trail then a detour via the Talus Loop trail (maybe we’ll see the waterfall). Lawrence Glenn Landauer, 425-844-4330, lawrenceglennland-auer@yahoo.com.April 4, Sun. - Dungeness Spit (M) (USGS Dungeness) 11 mi., 120’ gain out. Meet 9:30 a.m. at TH. 1.5 hrs. plus ferry. Check the tide tables before going on this trip: www.saltwatertides.com/dynamic.dir/washingtonsites.html. A low tide of 1 ft. or less (minus tide is even better) at the midpoint of your hiking day is recommended. Hike along a narrow beach to a lighthouse and views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The spit is a wildlife sanctu-ary and home to several bird species. $3/day use fee per person or family. Golden Eagle, Golden Age, Golden Access, Federal Duck Stamp, the Dungeness NWR Annual Pass, “America the Beautiful,” Annual, Senior, Volunteer, and Access passes are accepted. NWFP is not accepted. Map is available at the TH. This is a great spring conditioning hike in a tranquil area overrun with people during the summer. Robert Pankl, 206-729-0162,

pankl@earthlink.net. (s3/26-4/1)

SocialEventsMarch �2, Fri. - Games Night and Snacks. 7 p.m. at the Phin-ney Neighborhood Center, 6532 Phinney Ave. N., #3. Bring a snack or beverage (with cups) to share and a game if you want. No registration. Eldon Ball, eldonball@juno.com, 206-366-8405.March �7, Wed. - Singles Committee Meeting 7 p.m. in the Mountaineers Program Center Conference Room. The committee seeks input from all members and prospective members. Come find out what the committee is up to and offer your suggestions and comments. Join us on the third Wednesday of the month to see your committee in action. Please bring your suggestions and ideas on what activities and causes you would like us to pursue. Feel free to send questions or get info: Lawrence Landauer, 425-844-4330, lawrenceglennlandauer@yahoo.com. (s12/1-3/17)March 26, Sat. - Rock & Roll Dance Join Ron Bolin, The Dancin’ DJ at The Lake City Community Center, 12531 28th Ave N.E., Seattle (2 blocks W. of Lake City Way) from 7:45 to 11:30 p.m. Dance to a mix of rock & roll, swing, Latin, and waltz music. Ron will teach an East Coast swing lesson at 8 p.m. and there will be mixers. Swing-amajig, a professional dance team full of vitality, will be performing a dynamic Swing/Lindy dance. Enter a couples swing dance competition for $10 per couple. Three experienced swing-dance judges will pick winners who will split the cash jackpot. Please bring a snack item to share. This could be as simple as a bag of chips, cookies, fruit, veg-gies, a dessert, etc. $9 for Mountaineers members with card, $12 without. For more information contact Karen, 206-484-9187, karenludwig2000@yahoo.com.

Weekly eventsMarch �, �0, �7, 24 & ��, Wed. - Evening Outdoor Inline Skate 7 p.m. Have fun and keep in shape year-round! If it rains we may walk. Optional restaurant socializing later. Questions? Call Mark Olsoe, 206-937-7454, or Jenefer Huntoon, 206-632-8804. No registration. Skate the Alki Beach Trail with beautiful views of downtown across Elliott Bay. Take the Harbor Ave. exit off the West Seattle Freeway and go about 1 mi. N. to meet on the sidewalk just N. of Salty’s Restaurant. Questions? Call Mark Ol-soe, 206-937-7454, or Jenefer Huntoon, 206-632-8804. Leader: Mark Olsoe, mark.e.olsoe@boeing.com, 206-937-7454.March 4, ��,�8 & 25, Thu. - Indoor Volleyball 8-10 p.m. at Ingraham High School gym, 1819 N. 135th St., Seattle—SW corner, N.135th St. & Meridian Ave. N. (W. of I-5) From the S., take the N.130th St. exit, (#174). From the N., take the N.145th St. exit (#175). $4 with Mountaineers card, $5 without. Guests with waiver on file, 206-521-6001 or 1-800-573-8484, may play. Gym shoes required. Questions? Eldon Ball, 206-366-8405, eldonball@juno.com. No registration.March 5, �2, �9 & 26, Fri. - Eastside Indoor Tennis Intermedi-ate and Above Limit 12. 7 p.m. at Robinswood Tennis Center, 2400 151st Pl. S.E., Bellevue. Join us for a Friday evening of intermediate and above doubles tennis. Skill level is a minimum intermediate (3.0 to 4.0) and above. Play from 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. Registration begins on Thursdays, eight days before we play, and closes the following Wednesday. $11 for members, $12 for others, $5 cancellation fee. Call 425-452-7690 for direc-tions. Questions? Greg, 425-828-8590, or Fay, 206-281-5029. Leader: Gregory Kidd, 425-828-8590, Gregory.Kidd@comcast.net. (s1/13-2/24) March 6, ��, 20 & 27 & April �, Sat. - Green Lake Walk Meet at 11 a.m. outside the Urban Bakery, 7850 E. Green Lake Dr. N. at Wallingford Ave N. for a walk around Green Lake. After the walk,

See Tacoma Branch official contacts in box on this page Clubhouse: 2302 N. 30th St., Tacoma, WA 98403

Website: www.tacomamountaineers.orgTO SIGN UP FOR A TACOMA TRIP VISIT WWW.MOUNTAINEERS.ORG

OR CALL 206-521-6000, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED (cancellation fees may apply for fee-based events and classes; contact leader)

TACOMA

Tacoma Branch ContactsChair: Darin Brekke, mtn_nav@earthlink.net, 253-549-4245Chair-elect: Geoffrey Lawrence, glawrence_98@yahoo.com,

253-627-1619Secretary: Jim Harvey, 425-432-9575, jim5car@yahoo.comTreasurer: Marian Shepherd, 206-355-0141, marian.shepherd@

tacomamountaineers.orgTrustee on Mountaineers Board: Tom Shimko, tshimko@peoplepc.

com, 253-272-0656Branch Trustee: Jim Feltus, jimfeltus@msn.com, 253-468-4787Branch Trustee: Gretchen Roosevelt, tagtacoma@mac.com,

253-759-3810Branch Trustee: Karen Turner, karen-turner@comcast.net, 253-

202-74588Branch Trustee: Bill Goodman, bbgoodman@harbornet.com,

253-564-8337Branch Trustee: Don Thompson, donteleski@msn.com, 360-

692-8236Social Division Chair: Karen Turner, karen-turner@comcast.net,

253-202-7458Outdoor Division Chair: Gary Peniston, ghpghp@earthlink.net,

253-851-8348Climbing Division Chair: Joel Edwards, edwards_joel@msn.com,

253-732-4231Clubhouse Sec.: Helen Engle, 253-566-6965, hengle@iinet.comBranchwide

Tacoma Branch website: www.tacomamountaineers.org. Our goal is to provide information on current and coming activities. Constructive feedback and ideas about the website are gladly accepted.

The Mountaineers Club Website. Check it out. You should log on and check your profile to be sure that your contact information (e-mail, phone, address) is correct. Then click on the “Activities” tab and go to “Advanced Search” to search for trips by type, by branch, by date, etc. The “Communities” tab will take you to the various communities set up by different activities at the various branches. Be sure to check the website for late breaking events.

‘Irate Birdwatcher’ to be featuredMarch �9, Fri., 7 p.m. - Branch New Member Show and

Program: Come see our great orientation show of programs and courses offered by The Mountaineers, Tacoma Branch. We welcome new members, prospects, and friends! Bring the family to see what we do including hiking, climbing and scrambling, sea kayaking, skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, first aid, navigation,

and social and family activities. This will be a chance to visit with representatives from numerous activities.

8 p.m. - “The Irate Birdwatcher:” Crest Pictures’ newest film about wilderness preservation as told in the words of Harvey Manning. Harvey was the legendary Northwest writer, famous for Mountaineers publications, the “101 Hikes” series, “Freedom of the Hills” and more.

A staunch conservationist in the early 1960s, Manning (us-ing his pen name the “Irate Birdwatcher”) became the voice of a dedicated band of hikers and climbers turned conservationists. They spearheaded the grassroots movement that brought us the North Cascades National Park, as well as other designated wilderness areas throughout Washington.

The filmmakers adapted quotes from his dozens of books to follow Manning through decades as he unveils the beauty of Washington’s wildest places, and discovers the need to fight for their survival.

While extolling wilderness preservation, encouraging citizen

activism and stewardship, the film serves also as a moving tes-tament to Manning and his lifework. His words reveal his wit, charm and experiences over the years—quintessential Harvey.

The event is free and open to all.

Photographers’ works publishedCongratulations to Photography Committee members Don

Geyer and Joe Becker. Photos they took are being published on National Geographic’s new Central Cascades geo-tourism map. For more information, see the Tacoma photography sec-tion on pg. 16.

Clubhouse schedule to be mulledMarch 4, Thu. - Tacoma Clubhouse scheduling meeting,

7 p.m., at the clubhouse. We will be scheduling the clubhouse through December 2011. Every activity should send a repre-

we will lunch at a nearby restaurant. No registration. Questions? Contact Karen Nordal, 206-366-2736, knordal@mac.com.

SnowshoeingPlease visit our website: www.mountaineers.org/seattle/snowshoeCo-chairs: Linda Sheehan, lindasean1@hotmail.com, and Susan Murphy,

smurph1@comcast.netGeneral student questions: Larry Metzger, snowdog.48@hotmail.comLectures and leader development: Larry Metzger, snowdog.48@hotmail.

comLeader applications and course equivalency: Johnny Jeans, jjmtnjoys@

yahoo.comSnowshoe Lite chair: Bryan Stennes, bryan.stennes@googlemail.comWinter Camping co-chairs: Rich Lawrence, richlawrence@comcast.net, and

Tim Lawson, timlawsonwild@msn.comInstructor/Leader Clinic Coordinator: John Hurr, johnhurr@gmail.comWebmaster: Johnny Jeans, jjmtnjoys@yahoo.com

Kudos to graduatesCongratulations to all students who completed Snowshoe

Lite, Winter Skills, and Winter Camping Courses this season. We encourage graduates of the Winter Skills Course to pursue the Winter Travel Certificate.

The Winter Travel Certificate may be earned by completing the Winter Skills Course, Navigation Course, and a minimum of three Mountaineers snowshoe tours, two of which must be rated either moderate or strenuous. Submit applications by March 19. Applications are available on the Seattle Branch Snowshoe website. Click on “courses” to find the grad application. You can print it and mail the completed application to Seattle Snowshoe Committee, The Mountaineers, 7700 Sand Point Way N.E., Seattle, WA 98115, or you may submit your application online to Susan Murphy, smurph1@comcast.net.

For snowshoe tours, please visit The Mountaineers website and click on “activity search” to register for the current tours offered by all Mountaineers branches.

Snowshoe tours Indicates Trailhead event. See pg. 1 for details about Trailhead.

Feb. 27, Sat. - Commonwealth Basin, Up and Down (E) (Snoqualmie Pass USGS) 6 mi., 1500’ gain. Limit 10. Meet at 8:30 a.m. under the I-90 overpass on Alpental Rd. (Exit 52). 1 hr. Goal is to go far enough up the basin to where the views of Kendall, Lundin, Red and Snoqualmie peaks, as well as Cave Ridge, are spectacular. Leader: Jim Gross, 206-283-5154, jg@att.net. (s2/15-2/25)Feb. 28, Sun. - Kendall Peak Lakes (M) (Snoqualmie Pass USGS) 6 mi., 2000’ gain. Meeting at 9 a.m. at Gold Creek Sno-Park. Leader: Barbara Powrie, 425-333-0535, bpowrie@centurytel.net. (s2/16-2/25)March 7, Sun. - Artist Point (M) (Shuksan Arm USGS) 5 mi., 1100’ gain. Limit 8. Meet 7:30 a.m. at Ash Way P&R. Changed destination to Artist Point since higher trips are doing better this year. Leader: Lawrence Landauer, 425-844-4330, lawrenceglenn-landauer@yahoo.com. (s2/22-3/4)

Trailhead eventsFeb. 27-28, Sat.-Sun. - Snow Camping For Beginners

So you’re already backpacking and want to break into the 4th season? See Backcountry Skiing for full details.

March 6, Sat. - Paradise Area Join us for up to 5 miles round trip and up to 600’ of gain, depending on party ambi-tions. A nice trip to a beautiful area exploring the terrain around the Paradise area at Mt Rainier. New members welcome. Leader: Ken Hahn kenh@mountaineers.org or 206-595-7237.

�4 March 2010 Go Guide Tacoma

sentative to this meeting. This is not a long meeting but it is a very important one. Questions? Contact Amy Mann, agmann@comcast.net, 253-759-2796.

Trail food round table setMarch 7, Sun. - Dehydrating & Trail Food Round Table,

�-� p.m. Get ready to get out on the trail this spring with your own dehydrated treats in your pack. See “Hiking” section on pg. 15 for details.

Dinner for new members: March 18March �8, Thu. - New Member Dinner, 6-8 p.m. Are you

a new or fairly new Tacoma Branch member (joined in the last year)? Want to enjoy a nice meal, meet some of your fellow new Mountaineers, hear a comprehensive explanation of what’s go-ing on in Tacoma Branch, talk about your interests, have your questions answered, win a free copy of “Freedom of the Hills?” Attend one of the new member dinners. Registration information and restaurant location is located on The Mountaineers website under “Activities - Social/Singles.” For more information contact Tacoma board members/co-hosts Karen Turner, karen-turner@comcast.net, and Jim Harvey, jim5car@yahoo.com.

Leadership seminar: March 27March 27, Sat. - Outdoor Leadership Seminar, 8 a.m.-5

p.m. The Tacoma Branch one-day leadership seminar, held at the Tacoma Clubhouse, is for current and prospective leaders of Mountaineers trips and activities. We’ll spend the day solving problems with scenarios based on actual trips—the good, the bad, and the ugly. The discussion is always thought provoking with the mix of everyone’s own experiences, the scenarios, and the outstanding text. The $50 fee includes a copy of the text, “Outdoor Leadership,” by John Graham, breakfast, lunch and refreshments throughout the day. Register online for this event through March 11 at www.mountaineers.org. Questions? Check out the online listing or contact Amy Mann, agmann@comcast.net, 253-759-2796, or Kathleen Brammer, brammerka@comcast.net, 253-896-4849.

Branch board to meetMarch 29, Mon., 7 p.m. - Tacoma Branch Board Meeting

at the clubhouse. Members are invited to attend and observe the branch board at work. Meetings typically run about two hours. Those wishing to receive advance copies of the agenda, copies of the minutes or suggest an agenda item should contact Branch Chair Darin Brekke, mtn_nav@earthlink.net, and Branch Sec-retary Jim Harvey, jim5car@yahoo.com.

New singles meet-up communityTacoma Branch Mountaineers have posted a new website

listing social and outdoors activities for current and potential Mountaineers. In one week this site went from 1 to 80 members, and it’s still growing! Concerts, bike riding, wine tasting, nature walks—after one week we had hosted three social activities (average attendance two dozen-plus) and listed nine more for the next few weeks. If you have questions contact Karen Turner, karen-turner@comcast.net, or visit www.meetup.com/Tacoma-Mountaineer-Singles.

Publicity opportunityIf you’ve ever been hiking you’re amply qualified to give us

a hand with our ongoing branch publicity program, the popular “Hike of the Week” feature, in the News Tribune and The Olym-pian on Fridays. Help us keep this effort going by detailing some of your favorite day hikes. All levels of hikes are needed, from easy family hikes to strenuous conditioners. Contact Amy Mann, agmann@comcast.net, 253-759-2796.

New member mentoring/membershipContacts: Donna Bisogno, 253-922-4147, jmjrejoice@gmail.com; Kathleen

Brammer, 253-896-4849, brammerka@comcast.net; Jim Harvey, 425-432-9575, jim5car@yahoo.com.

Are you new to the club or thinking about joining? You can contact Donna, Kathleen or Jim (contact info above) with questions. There are several ways you can find out if this club is the one for you. Are you interested in a specific activity? The chair or leader of each of our activities is ready and willing to talk to you. See specific activity listings in this Go Guide for contact information.

Tacoma new member meetings are a great way to meet some of the club members, see a presentation of the various activities and have your questions answered. They’re held at Tacoma Clubhouse on the third Friday of most months.

And finally, for those ready to jump right in, try one of the hikes (under “Hiking”), especially one noted as “slow” or “moderate” pace (if you prefer). Some leaders note that their trips are great beginner hikes, and all leaders are willing to share tips about gear if you’re still accumulating things. Other activities you might try out are photography meetings, backpacking trips, singles events/volleyball, social events, one-evening seminars like hiking/backpacking. The expression in The Mountaineers is, “so many activities, so little time!” Join us and get out there!

Trip registration procedures, guidelinesPlease read the preamble on Page 19 of this Go Guide for Ten Essentials, travel

cost-sharing (Note: now 12¢ per mile RT) and guest participation.To register for a Tacoma branch trip, register online at www.mountaineers.

org, or call the leader listed for that activity. If you need additional details about the trip ask the trip leader. Advance registration is necessary unless otherwise noted. The leader may cancel a trip if too few registrations are received by the deadline for the trip, so register earlier rather than later to reserve your spot.

P&R = Park & Ride6th Ave P&R = 7100 block at 6th & Skyline, Tacoma.CR = Charlie’s Restaurant, Highway 410, Enumclaw. T-112 = Behind Wells Fargo Bank, 112th & Pacific Ave., Tacoma.T-56 = P&R, E. of I-5 on south side of 56th St., Tacoma.TCC P&R = NE corner of Tacoma Community College campus at 19th &

Mildred St.512 P&R = Behind McDonald’s, south of I-5 & 512 interchange on S Tacoma

Way. MTTA = Mt. Tahoma Trails Assoc. at Rainier Overland, 1 mi. past Ashford

on SR 706. Southhill P&R = NW of Southhill Mall, Puyallup, at 104th St. E & 9th St. SW.Tacoma clubhouse = N 30th St. & Carr St.Bonney Lake P&R = South of Hwy. 410 on 184th

410 Cafe = Hwy. 410, BuckleyClassifications for Hikes: (E) = Easy, (M) = Medium, (S) = StrenuousClassifications for Climbs: (C) = Conditioner (A) = Alpine Climb (R) = Rock

Climb (G) = Glacier Climb, (I) = IceTrail Guides: AL = 100 Hikes in the Alpine Lakes; BHWC = Best Hikes With Children; BSHS = Best Short Hikes in the South Cascades; F1 (2, 3, 4) = Footsore 1 (2,3,4); GP = 100 Hikes in the Glacier Peak Region; MR = 50

Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park (MRNP); NC = 100 Hikes in the North Cascades; SCO = 100 Hikes in the South Cascades & Olympics

Climbing DivisionChair: Joel Edwards, 253-732-4231, edwards_joel@msn.comFeel free to contact course leaders for more information about the programs. If

you can’t get your questions answered through them please e-mail Joel.

Alpine Climbing/ScramblingCo-chairs: Margot Tsakonas, 425-208-2165, mvtsakonas19@comcast.net;

Jeff Wilhelm, 360-871-4701, TheStonyman@gmail.comCritical Skills: Mike Bujnowski, mikeb@reliancenetwork.com, 253-850-1806Records: Becky Hines, rebeccalhines@yahoo.com; Marla Pelowski, zoh@

earthlink.net Field Trips: Gary Zink, garyzink@comcast.net, 253-631-4004; Robyn Singh

robynsingh@hotmail.comThe 2010 Alpine Climbing and Scrambling Course (ACSC)

started on Feb. 10; registration for this year is closed. If you are a second-year student, be sure to sign up online for the “second year” class in order to be able to attend any field trips or lectures you need to complete. There is no additional fee for the second year.

Keep an eye on the website next fall for news about the 2011 ACSC enrollment.

Remaining schedule:The lectures are on weeknights in the Tacoma Clubhouse and

begin promptly at 7 p.m. They last until approximately 10 p.m. Please arrive at 6:45 p.m. to help with room setup if needed. The one-day field trips are offered on Saturdays and may be offered Sundays for scheduling flexibility if class size requires. You will also have one required weekend overnight field trip. Dates are as follows and are subject to change based on conditions.

Field Trip (Rock 2): March 6 or 7, Sat. or Sun.Lecture: March 16, Tue.Field Trip (Snow 1): March 20, Sat.Lecture and Exam: April 7, Wed.Exam Review: April 28, Wed.Field Trip: (Overnight) May 15-16, Sat.-Sun.Field Trip: June 12 or 13, Sat. or Sun.

Advanced Scramble/LeadershipChair: Larry Dunn, mtnhiker06@juno.com

Registration opens in July for the Advanced Scrambles/Lead-ership Course that starts Sept. 13. Alpine Scramble and Basic Climbing Course graduates who would like to continue their climbing education and raise their leadership skills are invited to register for this course.

Course focus is on safety, leadership, trip planning and alpine rescue. The curriculum is designed to provide an achievable yet challenging learning experience for all participants.

Classes are a mix of presentations, skill learning and testing. Clubhouse sessions are broken down into two parts: one hour of lecture and one hour of skills training. Field trips are active, scenario-driven events based on trips that have not gone well.

Due to course volume, current year make-ups for a missed class or field trip will not be possible. Students may register for a second year to complete the course.

Course fee is $100 and registration is online. Class dates, field trip dates and equipment requirements will be posted online prior to registration opening in July.

Graduation Requirements:1. Successful participation in all Advance Scrambles classes

and field trips2. Score 80% or higher on all written and hands-on testing3. Instruct at Tacoma Rock I or II4. Instruct at Tacoma Snow I or II5. Plan, list and lead a mentored conditioner6. Assistant lead a scramble trip7. Plan, list and lead a mentored scramble trip8. Current Mountaineers Basic Navigation9. Basic GPS course graduate10. Current MOFA.11. Avalanche Level I certification12. Tacoma Leadership seminar participant13. Submit completed graduation packet.For more information: Larry Dunn, mtnhiker06@juno.

com

Basic Climbing CourseChair: Mike Lund, enzolund@yahoo.com, 425-271-5891.

The Basic Climbing Course is a one- or two-year course of classroom instruction, field instruction and climbing experience designed to provide the basic skills necessary to safely climb rock, snow and the glaciated peaks of the Pacific Northwest.

This course covers selection and care of equipment, wilder-ness travel, roped and glacier travel, belaying, rappelling, rock climbing, crevasse rescue, and many other topics. During field trips and actual climbs the student will put these skills to practical use with experienced mountaineers. Solid physical conditioning and psychological commitment is essential.

Past BCC Graduates: Graduates of the course are encour-aged to participate on BCC climbs, particularly alpine and glacier outings. Review all the climb listings, call the leader if you find something of interest. The intent is to create opportunities for you to be involved, to share your knowledge and experience with others, and to improve or maintain proficiency in your skills.

2009 Records: Graduation materials (forms for completed MOFA, trail maintenance, etc.) should be sent to: Bill Wood, wwood999@gmail.com, 206-878-0438.

Basic Climbing registration closes March 3. Our next basic course will commence in February, 2011.

Eligibility Requirements: Experience in off-trail hiking and camping is helpful; you should want to learn technical mountaineering skills. Prospective participants should be aware this course requires a significant investment in time, energy, and money. The dropout rate for this course is often 30%. Schedul-ing conflicts, inadequate physical conditioning, and inadequate experience contribute to participants dropping out. Solid overall physical conditioning and psychological commitment, to enable the student to carry a heavy pack in difficult terrain with vertical exposure and adverse weather conditions, is essential.

Juniors: Members under 18 years of age must complete the Junior Application Supplement and attend an information night for a Junior Interview. A parent or legal guardian must accompany you. To receive the Junior Application Supplement contact Mike

Lund by phone or e-mail.Registration: Registration should be completed online at

www.mountaineers.org. The course size is limited to 100 par-ticipants. If the course has already filled before your registration is received you will be notified and will receive a full refund for course fees.

BCC Course Fees: Course fee is $300 for members and $400 for non-members. A credit card can be used only if registering online. If registering by mail, this fee can be paid by check or cash. Non-members who are considering applying for the course should join The Mountaineers without delay. Non-members may call the clubhouse secretary (253-566-6965) to request a “New Member Packet”. The packet is also available for download below. The required text for the course is “Mountaineering, the Freedom of The Hills,” 7th Edition.

Refunds, less $50 handling and materials fees, can be made if you withdraw from the course and notify the chair in writing prior to the second lecture. In order to receive a refund your written statement of withdrawal must be received by the close of business on March 31 by Mike Lund by e-mail, enzolund@yahoo.com. The BCC fee does not include the cost of the required Mountaineering Oriented First Aid (MOFA) or Navigation courses, which are required for graduation.

Getting off to a fast start: As you prepare for the course, take a look at your conditioning program. If you are not in-volved in some strenuous aerobic activity, 3-4 times weekly, now is the time to start. Your conditioning is important for your safe enjoyment of basic climbs and for the safety of your team members. Another crucial ability is tying basic knots used in Mountaineering. Find time before the course starts to practice the knots depicted in “Mountaineering - Freedom of the Hills.” Navigation and MOFA courses are required for graduation from the BCC. You are encouraged to schedule and complete these courses as soon as possible.

Controlled Risk: Participants must be aware that mountain climbing can be a very hazardous activity, and that participation in course field trips, conditioners, and experience climbs does expose you to hazardous conditions and a possibility of serious injury or death.

20�0 Course info: Lectures are Wednesdays at the Tacoma Clubhouse. They will begin promptly at 7 p.m. and run until about 10 p.m. Arrive by 6:30 p.m. to Lecture #1 for distribution and review of course materials. All lectures and field trip preps are required as prerequisites to attend field trips.

Lectures:March 3 – Lecture 1: Conditioning, Equipment, KnotsMarch 31 – Lecture 2: Snow Travel, Avalanche HazardsApril 21 – Lecture 3: Rock ClimbingMay 5 – Lecture 4: Accident Response, Mountain Rescue,

Health, and NutritionMay 26 – Lecture 5: Glacier Travel, Crevasse RescueField Trip Schedule:March 10 or 17 - FT 1 Preparation: Fundamentals, Prusik-

ing and KnotsMarch 20 or 2� - FT 1: Fundamentals, Prusik Test, Knots

and BelayingApril 10 and 11 – FT 2: Winter OvernightApril 24 or 25 - FT 3: Belay TestMay 8 or 9 – FT 4 Rock I: Knots, Rock Climbing, Rap-

pellingMay 22 or 2� – FT 5: Rock II: Rock Climbing, RappellingJune 2 – FT 6 Preparation: Crevasse RescueJune 12 and 13 - FT 6 and 7: Crevasse Rescue and Hard

SnowJune 16 – Final ExamJune 30 – Course Review and CritiqueOct. 3 - Graduation and Course Potluck 6:30 p.m.Throughout the course there will be opportunities for ad-

ditional skills practice with a mentor both at the clubhouse and in the mountains. For more information, contact Mike Lund, 425-271-5891, enzolund@yahoo.com.

Graduation Requirements: • Attend all lectures and field trip preps, and pass final

examination.• Satisfactorily complete all field trips.• Satisfactorily complete one Conditioner, four Basic Climbs,

including one Rock and one Glacier climb.• Successfully complete the Navigation course.• Participate in one day’s conservation activity/trail main-

tenance offered by The Mountaineers or another recognized organization or agency.

• Possess a current Mountaineering Oriented First Aid (MOFA) card by the date of graduation.

• Apply for graduation as described in the course manualYou have two years to complete the course (there is an ad-

ministrative fee for returning second-year students, see above).Participation is subject to students completing required

activities in accordance with the Basic Course Manual and leader’s permission.

Climbs are open for registration for Tacoma basic students at 8 a.m. on the date of the climb, one calendar month prior to the climb, and open to students from other branches two weeks prior to the climb. Register with the climb leader directly (before 9 p.m.).

Hiking and peak awardsTo promote interest in trails and climbs across Washington

and into California, Oregon and Canada, The Mountaineers has established Hiking and Peak Awards. The awards are available to members that complete the requirements listed for a particular group of destinations. To view the awards visit www.tacoma-mountaineers.org/activities/peak_pins.cfm.

Intermediate Climbing CourseThe Intermediate Climbing Course began on Jan. 20. Our next intermediate

course will commence in January, 2011. If you have any question about our intermediate course, please contact one of the committee members:

Co-Chair: Tom Labrie, ayankeehousewright@hotmail.com, 360-710-6577Co-Chair: Joel Edwards, edwards_joel@msn.com, 253-732-4231Manual: Bud Truitt, truittbltjt@comcast.net, 253-503-3814Field Trips: Frank Neumann, neumannfrank@mac.com, 425-503-2803Lectures: Jeremiah Woods, jeremiah.woods@gmail.com, 206-931-6723Critical Skills: Dan Lauren, dan.lauren@weyerhauser.com, 253-279-7421Website: tacomamountaineers.org/activities/intermediate_climbing.cfmClimb Leader Promotions and Requests for Basic Equivalency: Climbers

who would like to be placed on the Intermediate Climbs Leader List, or request Basic Equivalency, should contact Joel Edwards, edwards_joel@msn.com, 253-732-4231 or Tom Labrie, ayankeehousewright@hotmail.com, 360-710-6577, for information on submitting the application.

Go Guide March 2010 �5Tacoma

Intermediate Climbs: If you’d like to lead an intermediate climb and are not familiar with the new database, contact Joel Edwards, edwards_joel@msn.com, 253-732-4231 or Tom Labrie, ayankeehousewright@hotmail.com, 360-710-6577 for assistance. Check the Internet database for current listings

Lecture Schedule Remaining:March 11, Thu. - Expeditions & Logistics March 25, Thu. - Climb LeadershipMarch 27, Sat. - Outdoor Leadership Seminar, separate

program April 8, Thu. - Leading on Rock April 22, Thu. - Advanced Rock Leading & Self Help July 29, Thu. - Hard Snow and Introduction to Ice Climb-

ing Aug. 12, Thu. - Ice Climbing Oct. 14, Thu. - ExamField Trip Schedule Remaining:March 6-7, Sat.-Sun. - Winter Overnight and Avalanche Field

Trip 2, separate program April 17-18, Sat.-Sun. - Rock Climbing 1 May 1-2, Sat.-Sun. - Rock Climbing 2 and Self Help

Aug. 7-8, Sat.-Sun. - Hard Snow and Introduction to Ice Climb-ing

Aug. 21-22, Sat.-Sun. - Ice Climbing

Intermediate climbsApril �0-��, Sat.-Sun. - Mt. Rainier, Fuhrer Finger (IM) Limit 7. This will be a fun winter climb. Leader’s permission required. Leader: Carl Duester, 253-565-4322, cdenali@comcast.net. (s2/5-3/5)

Trad Rock/Crag CourseCourse Chair: Marty Babare, mbabare@nventure.com, 253-756-5576Field trips: Mark Lemon, 253-314-6998 Critical Skills: Ed Lansing, Mindy Nichols, 253-394-4383, mindyrd@gmail.

com Mentoring: Gregg Gagliardi, 253-566-9490 Are you interested in learning to lead moderate (5.4-5.8) rock routes using trad

gear (no bolts)? Are you interested in enhancing your current trad skill level? We’re developing a new course to build our climbing curriculum—we have you in mind. This crag course will cover placing passive and active protection, building anchors and setting up rappels, as well as hanging belays, swinging leads and crack climbing techniques. We’ll be outside at some of the local crags (like Tieton, Vantage, and Leavenworth), but we’ll get started at the clubhouse and Spire Rock.

April 8, Thu. - Lecture at the Tacoma Clubhouse, 7 p.m. Date TBD – Field Trip to Spire Rock April 17, May 1, May 15, Sat. - Field Trips.Register online: $150 members, $200 non-members.For details: Marty Babare, mbabare@nventure.com.

Sport Climbing CourseCourse Committee: Chair: Chris Willett, cwillett03@gmail.com Field Trips: Greg Gagliardi, gagliard@u.washington.eduLectures: Bill Hecker

The Sport Climbing Course, which begins this fall, is open to anyone wanting to learn safe sport climbing, as well as those already accomplished rock and gym climbers who want to expand and round out their skills. There are no prerequisites for the class.

This is a perfect course for new members who have not yet taken any courses but have an interest in rock climbing; continu-ing students from scrambles or basic programs who have an interest in sport climbing; gym climbers who want to transition to setting up their own top-ropes and anchors, enjoy independent climbing on great sport routes.

Prospective intermediate climbing students are encour-aged to take this course: learning to lead sport routes will help significantly with the learning process for leading the alpine rock routes you’ll encounter in the intermediate course. This is a student-centered course: learning objectives will be de-pendent on students’ interests and skills. We’ll customize teach-ing to each student’s skills and interests. Topics of instruction include: climbing sport routes on top-rope, leading sport routes using bolts and quick-draws, setting up anchors on bolts and chains, clipping bolts, belay technique, rappel technique, climb-ing signals and communication, untying from rope at anchor and transitioning to rappel, lowering techniques, necessary knots, and safe use of equipment. There will be an emphasis on safety.

Cost: $125 Members, $175 Non-members. Possible camping fees depending on enrollment.

Required equipment: Helmet, harness, rock shoes, personal anchor system, several carabiners & slings. Optional but recom-mended equipment: rope, chalk bag, quick draws. Please contact the Chair with equipment questions.

Lectures are at 7 p.m. at the Tacoma Clubhouse:Lecture 1 – Sept. 9, Thu. - Introduction, equipment, climb-

ing, safetyLecture 2 - Sept. 16, Thu. - Technique, anchors, knots, belay

practice, rappelsLecture 3 – Sept. 23, Thu. –Leading, cleaning, rappelsField Trips:Gym climbing at Edgeworks in Tacoma, Mon. and Wed.

evenings. Optional but highly recommended.Field Trip 1 – Sept. 25-26 – Vantage Field TripField Trip 2 – Oct. 9-10 - Vantage Field TripCourse registration is via the website only.For more information, see the course website or contact

Chris Willett. Website:http://tacomamountaineers.org/climbing/sport_climbs.html

NavigationChair: Jim Harvey, jim5car@yahoo.com, 425-432-9575Lead Instructor: Steve Frank, stephen.m.frank@hotmail.com Records Keeper: Chuck Bredl, brewmasterchuck@comcast.netCommunications: Don Campbell, sketcher54@hotmail.comField Trips: Gary Zink, garyzink@comcast.net, 253-631-4004.

Navigating through the wilderness, not getting lost, is a skill - a skill that can save your life. For Spring 2010 Tacoma Mountaineers offers two sessions of Basic Navigation, required for graduation from Scrambling and Basic Climbing:

Basic Navigation Courses 20�0: Session One: March 30, April 1, 3 (firm)Session Two: May 18, 20, 22 (tentative, registration opens

April 10)Session Three: early September (dates to be finalized mid-

summer)Basic Navigation provides the skills necessary to safely find

your way through wilderness. During the course you’ll learn to: use a topographic map; understand orientation and feature

identification; relate features on a topo map to your surround-ings; use your compass and its various features; use a map and compass to determine your location and desired direction of travel; navigate accurately while traveling cross-country through challenging terrain. Students must use an appropriate compass, estimated cost $50-75. See Tacoma Mountaineers website for details, tacomamountaineers.org.

Eligibility requirements: This is an entry-level course. No prior backcountry experience, or understanding of maps, com-passes or wilderness navigation is necessary. We’ll teach you what you need to know! Participants must be at least 14 years of age; non-Mountaineers are welcome.

Class locations: All classes are held at the Tacoma Club-house; The navigation field trips are at Irish Cabin property, near the Carbon River entrance to MRNP.

Course Fees: Course fees are $48 for Mountaineers and $73 for non-members. The course fee includes any maps used in class, handouts and/or student field trip booklets. Students are responsible for website downloads, other readings and field trip necessities.

Controlled Risk: Participants must be aware the Navigation field trips have some degree of risk. The courses involve travel through steep, rugged terrain with fallen trees, slippery logs, rocks and swampy areas adjacent to streams. Rain, cold and possibly snow may create challenging conditions.

How to Register: Register online, with a credit card, at www.mountaineers.org: click “Navigation”, then “Search Now”, to find all available Tacoma Branch navigation classes.

Basic GPS: The 2009 class has concluded. 2010 classes will be scheduled mid-2010.

Questions? Visit our club website, www.tacomamountain-eers.org.

Contact: Jim Harvey, 425-432-9575, jim5car@yahoo.com.

Outdoor DivisionChair: Gary Peniston, 253-851-8348, ghpghp@earthlink.net.(MOFA, Hiking/Backpacking, Sailing, Sea Kayaking, Skiing, Mountain Bik-

ing)

ConservationContact: Bill Goodman, 253-564-8337, skookum@harbornet.com

Here’s your opportunity to be involved in Conserva-tion: We’re forming a committee to address conservation concerns at the local level (primarily Tacoma/Pierce County, which includes but not limited to the wilderness areas). We also intend to be a player in protecting the outdoor experience in the urban/suburban environment where most of us reside. The vision is for us as a branch to be involved in a hands-on way at the local level, not a national level. There are already a number of organizations in our area that are active in preserving our natu-ral environment for the enjoyment of all and, when appropriate, we can possibly partner with others who share our concerns. We are in the formative stage. We need people to help organize this committee and better define our mission and priorities.

Possible actions we can take include:• Informing our membership and general public about local

conservation concerns via courses, seminars, guest speakers.• Organizing and attending local conservation projects and/or

partnering with other similar-minded groups.• Participate in trail maintenance projects both in the subur-

ban environment (like the Foothills Trails) and in the wilderness (national forests and parks).

• Advocacy on a local level for bike lanes/trails, hiking trails, parks, etc.

•Adopting and preserving a piece of the outdoors in our local region.

We ask that you commit to be on the committee for at least a year. We might meet monthly for the first year until we get established. If you want to make a difference, contact Bill Good-man, skookum@harbornet.com.

First Aid (MOFA)MOFA CommitteeChair: Leah Munion, 206-200-4715, mountainbutterfly007@gmail.comCo-Chair: Angela McKee, 253-460-0727, k2teleskier@yahoo.com

Tacoma Mountaineering Oriented First Aid (MOFA) is a 28-hour first aid course for the wilderness traveler. The course consists of lectures, dem-onstrations and practical experience. It includes Red Cross adult CPR and standard first aid.

MOFA instructors are club volunteers who are also certified Red Cross instructors. Two or more instructors teach each class, with final practical scenarios evaluated by other instructors. Our make-up artists add realism to these final exercises by outfitting our many volunteer victims with simulated injuries.

No previous first aid or climbing experience is required to enroll in the course.

Our Tacoma MOFA Refresher Course is condensed into 20 hours and provides full MOFA recertification, in-cluding Red Cross Adult CPR and Standard First Aid. It is open to all who have taken MOFA within the past five years. Those with advanced medical training (e.g., EMTs, nurses, physicians) may also take the refresher in lieu of taking the full MOFA course; contact Angela for details. If you are interested in taking only CPR/First Aid, contact Angela or Leah.

Course Attendance: Participation is required at all class sessions. The class involves hands-on, interactive learning build-ing on skills learned in previous sessions. Wear casual clothes suitable for working on the ground and outdoors. Arrangements cannot be made to make up class sessions. Please do not register for a class unless you can attend all class sessions.

20�0 Refresher MOFA Class: March 14, Sun., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; March 23, Tue., 6-10 p.m.; and March 28, Sun., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at the Tacoma Clubhouse. Call Angela with questions. Tacoma Refresher Course fee (includes textbook): $80 members, $105 non-members.

Sept. Irish Cabin MOFA Class: Sept. 12, 19, Sun., 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Tacoma Clubhouse; field-trip the weekend of Sept. 25-26, Sat.-Sun. at our Irish Cabin Property outside NW corner of Mt. Rainier NP. The last two days of class will be conducted during a car/tent camp in forested mountain terrain, typical surroundings in which wilderness first aid is used. We’ll ensure class participants have the proper equipment during the first two class sessions. Course fee (includes textbook): $85 members, $110 non-members.

Fall weekends MOFA Class: Oct. 23, 24 and Nov. 6, 7, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Tacoma Clubhouse. Course fee (includes textbook): $80 members, $105 non-members.

Registration: Online self-registration at www.mountaineers.org, or call registration lines, 206-521-6001 or 800-573-8484.

Hiking/BackpackingChair: Amy Mann, 253-759-2796, agmann@comcast.netTacoma Hiking Web Guru: Catherine Kwon Walters, 253-759-1127, kwon

1962@yahoo.comCommittee members: Dick Bacon, Donna Bisogno, Kathleen Brammer,

Nancy German, Arden Gudger, Joan Hays, Lyn Higaki, Gordon Jenkins, Diane Malone, Nancy Mooney, Mike Waiss, and how about you? Give Amy a call if you’d like to help out.

Website Alert - for leaders and hikers: All Tacoma hikes and backpack trips are listed on the Club interactive website, www.mountaineers.org. Check the website for late breaking events that didn’t make the Go Guide deadline. If you haven’t done so already, you should log on and check your profile to be sure that your contact information (e-mail, phone, address) is correct. Then click on the Communities tab and check out the Tacoma: Hiking & Backpacking Community on the website. Click on the Activities tab to search for trips. You can sign up for most trips on line.

Fundrai$er: Write up your favorite hikes for the Hike of the Week feature in the News Tribune to help us raise $$$ to support the Hiking/Backpacking Committee and the Branch. Contact Amy, agmann@comcast.net, 253-759-2796, for a list of hikes that have been submitted so far and for a copy of our easy-to-use fill-in form.

Hike Sign-Up Etiquette: Mountaineers trips, led by volunteer leaders, are group activities, intended to provide a mix of exercise, enjoyment of our wilderness backyard, and an opportunity to spend the day with like-minded people. Everyone is responsible for being at an appropriate level of con-ditioning before signing up for a trip and is expected to wear appropriate clothing and carry adequate gear – for the trip and for any unplanned overnight bivouac in the mountains. Check the Outdoor Essentials icon on the website http://www.mountaineers.org/. If you find you are unable to participate in a trip for which you are signed up, you need to notify the leader ASAP, so someone from the waiting list can be given your spot. If you are forced to cancel at the last minute a phone call to the leader is better than an e-mail, so the group will not be delayed waiting for you at the carpool or trailhead.

Hiker Educational Opportunities/Confidence Builders: The Tacoma Branch regularly offers three courses of interest to hikers. (1) Map and compass work is taught in the Navigation Course. (2) MOFA (Mountaineer-ing Oriented First Aid, see First Aid above) offers invaluable information and skills training to help you deal with emergency situations and to better prepare yourself and your equipment before each trip. (3) Basic information on equipment and conditioning for hiking and backpacking is offered by the Hiking/Backpacking Committee in our evening introduction sessions held throughout the spring and summer. Dates are posted after the first of the year, with details and registration online at www.mountaineers.org. Search for “Introduction to Hiking”.

Hiking Participation Award: A fabric Mountaineers patch is awarded for participating in five or more Tacoma Branch hikes and/or backpacks in any twelve-month period. Eligible trips must be Branch-approved trips, led by Tacoma Branch leaders, to different destinations. One Tacoma Branch Mount Rainier Trail Maintenance Work Party Trip (see Tacoma Conserva-tion section of the Go Guide) can be substituted for two hikes or backpack trips. Send your list of trips to Amy to get your patch.

Leaders – Hike Submission Deadline: Trips need to be listed on the website by the 9th of the month to be included in the Go Guide for the next month. If you want help listing your trips on the website, please send your trips to Amy, agmann@comcast.net, by the first of the month.

Leaders – Miscellany: Save yourself some paperwork and postage hassles by having non-members sign waivers on the website and by filing your post trip report on the website.

New Leaders – A Continuing Opportunity: Curious? Thinking about it, but not sure if you’re ready to lead? Get in touch with Amy and we’ll find the right hike, and a mentor, to get you started.

Outreach: The third Friday Branch meetings include a new and prospective member slide show and Q&A session. Join us to greet people and answer questions about what we do when we “get out there.”

Trip classifications: See pg. 19, “Sending you on your way.”

HikesMarch 6, Sat. - Swan Creek Canyon (E) (City of Tacoma map) 5 mi., 600’ gain. Meet at 9 a.m. at location TBD. This is a good hike for new members as well as those well seasoned. The area offers 250 acres of old-growth forest and wildlife habitat set in a quiet East Tacoma area. Bring water, snack, dress for the weather and remember, no cotton clothing. Leader’s permission required. Leader: Diane Malone, 253-565-2080, mypaldiane45@yahoo.com. (s2/20-3/4)March 13, Sat. - Point Defiance Park (E) (download map at www.metroparkstacoma.org/page.php?id=239) 5-7 mi., 200-800’ gain. Limit 9. New members welcome! Map and understanding of basic navigation recommended for this trip—there are lots of trail junctions. Rhododendrons blooming in April, huckleberries in August-September. This is a great beginner hike (found in “50 Trail Runs in Washington”) for an introduction to hiking with The Mountaineers. Join us to shake the winter kinks out of your joints, check out new boots or see how your new pack works on the trail. We’ll hike through the park to eat our lunch by Fort Nisqually. Lots of great views on this trip and we’ll take time to enjoy them. We’ll hike as a group at a slow pace, doing a loop around Pt. Defiance Park. Rain does not cancel. Leader will e-mail meeting time, location, carpool suggestions and other last-minute information. Contact leader with any ques-tions. Leader: Amy Mann, 253-759-2796, agmann@comcast.net. (s2/10-3/10)March 20, Sat. - Point Defiance Park (E) See March 13 for details. (s2/10-3/17)

EventsMarch 7, Sun. - Dehydrating & Trail Food Round Table, �-� p.m. Get ready to get out on the trail this spring with your own dehydrated treats in your pack and start to make plans for what you are going to do with the bounty from your garden (or from your neighborhood farmers’ market) this summer. Learn how to select a dehydrator and how to use it to remove all that heavy water from your food to minimize weight while maximizing flavors and culinary experiences on the trail. The Tacoma Hik-ing and Backpacking Committee’s own trail-food dehydrating mavens, Marse and Amy, will cover meals, snacks and mistakes. Yes, we’ll have samples of our favorites (quinoa, pasta, toma-toes, coleslaw, chocolate pudding, apple pie —all dehydrated). If you’ve tried your hand at dehydrating, plan to share stories of your successes and disappointments, and bring samples of your own dehydrated foods to share. We’ll start promptly at 1 p.m. at the clubhouse, 2302 N. 30th St. There is no charge for this event but participants are asked to register in advance online or by calling Amy so that we will have enough copies of the handouts and samples for everyone: agmann@comcast.net, 253-759-2796. (s1/21-3/4)

Advance noticesMay 2, Sun. - Spring Hiking/Backpacking Potluck �-4 p.m.

�6 March 2010 Go Guide Tacoma

Kick off the hiking season with an afternoon of good food and good friends, old and new, at the Berry home (Carol, Dennis and Hiker) in Puyallup. New members and new hikers are most welcome! Bring your favorite dish to share, a beverage and your stories and pictures (albums or computer ready) from your favorite and most memorable hikes. To let us know you’re coming and get directions, contact Amy Mann, agmann@com-cast.net, 253-759-2796, or Carol Berry, busbuster@aol.com, 253-845-9297.May 4, Tue. - Introduction to Hiking and Backpacking, 7-8:�0 p.m. If you’re not sure what you need to do to start hiking with The Mountaineers, or just need a kick-start, join us at the Tacoma Clubhouse (2302 N. 30th, Tacoma) for this informa-tion-packed evening. Register online at www.mountaineers, or at the door at 6:45 p.m. with exact change or check for the $5 fee. Non-members welcome! Repeat performances of this program will be held on the first Tuesday of the month through August: June 1, July 6, and Aug. 3.May 8, Sat. - Potluck Brunch 9-11 a.m. Hosted by the Tacoma Branch Hiking & Backpacking Committee and the Mt. Rainier Volunteers in the Park.June 2, Tue. - Introduction to Hiking and Backpacking 7-8:30 p.m. This is a repeat of the May 4 program listed above.

SailingCommittee co-chairs: Robert and Laura Crews, 253-677-6949, lacrews06@

msn.com (when e-mailing, please write “Mountaineers-Sailing” in subject line).

Skippers: Jerry Stephenson, 253-381-7859, USMC_js@msn.com, Ron Broekemeier, Tom Davis, Stew Renn and Frank Thorpe.

Basic Crewing CourseThe days are getting longer and the May 1 official start of

boating season is just around the corner. If you have wanted to learn about sailing now is the time; the spring Basic Crewing (Sailing) Course will teach you to:

• Rig a sloop-rigged sailboat• Assist in departing from and arriving at a dock under

power• Have a basic understanding of sail trim and sailboat ma-

neuvering• Understand basic personal gear requirements and safety

practices for sailing under various conditions which may be encountered during Mountaineers sails

• Have a basic understanding of charts and navigation aids• Function as a crew member during a sailCourse Graduation Requirements:• Attendance at all three classroom sessions; April 5, 12 and

19, Mon., 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the clubhouse• Attendance at one on-the-dock First Training Sail session

April 10 or 11• Attendance at a second training sail, April 17 or 18• Attendance at two experienced sails-dates to be determined

after course starts.Mountaineers membership is encouraged, but not required.

Course fee is $95. Register online at www.mountaineers.org.

Sea Kayaking CourseCommittee Chair: Christine Burris, 253-651-6610, christineburris@centurytel.

netSecretary: Alex Otto, tacomakayaker@yahoo.com Treasurer: Peggy Gablehouse, 253-884-2987, gablehousep@aol.comLeadership Subcommittee Chair: Barbara Mitchell, 253-853-3399, bbmitch-

ell2000@gmail.comTraining Subcommittee Co-chairs: Bob Burnett, 206-321-0011, sktraining-

coordinator@yahoo.com; Christine Burris (above).Equivalency Subcommittee Chair: Mike Everett, 253-905-0613, mikeedvm@

aol.comPool Play Subcommittee Co-Chairs: Bob Burnett and Christine Burris,

aboveBasic Course Subcommittee Chair: Laurie Davis, 206-403-6924, lauriein-

seattle@hotmail.comRoll Class Subcommittee Chair: Gary Peniston, 253-851-8348, ghpghp@

earthlink.netSafety Subcommittee Co-Chairs: Gary Peniston, above, and Jurgen Herweg,

253-853-3399, jurgenherweg@gmail.com Sea Kayak Committee Meetings: The Tacoma Mountaineer Sea Kayaking

(TMSK) Committee meets over dinner the first Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m., usually at the Club House Grill, 6501 6th Ave., Tacoma. This is where the brainstorming takes place as well as plenty of socializing. Come and join us as we plot and scheme new things to do. If you’d like to be a part of the fun and learn about becoming a valued volunteer on the committee, or if you’re just looking for something enjoyable to do on first Wednesdays, contact Christine Burris, above (please confirm the meeting date and location).

To participate in Mountaineers sponsored sea kayak trips: You must be a graduate or continuing student of the Basic Sea Kayaking Course or have received equivalency (see below).

Trip Reservation: To sign up for paddles contact the trip leader listed in the trip description. Feel free to ask the trip leader any additional ques-tions/concerns about the trip. Leaders give preference to TMSK members for all Tacoma trips.

Equivalency: Mountaineers members who have significant kayak training and experience, yet have not completed a Mountaineers Basic Sea Kayaking Course (offered in Tacoma, Seattle, Olympia, and Kitsap), are encouraged to apply for equivalency. There is a $20 processing and evaluation fee. To apply for equivalency contact Mike Everett, 253-905-0613, for an applica-tion form.

About the course: No prior kayaking knowledge or experi-ence is required to participate in the course. Single kayaks are required throughout the course because kayak skills are best learned in singles. If you don’t own or have access to a sea kayak you’ll need to rent a boat on three occasions (see additional costs below).

Enrollment process: Enrollment is limited to 36 students. To register contact Peggy Gablehouse, gablehousep@aol.com. She’ll answer your questions and direct you to the online regis-tration site at www.mountaineers.org. The course typically fills early, so register promptly.

Course structure and schedule: The course consists of three lectures, one pool session, and two open-water sessions. To graduate students must also complete two club-sponsored paddles by Aug. 31. Attendance on the course dates listed below is required. Please review the course dates carefully and confirm that your schedule will permit you to attend all sessions. If you cannot commit to all these dates you will not be able to complete the course and graduate.

April ��, Tue., 6:�0-9:�0 p.m. Basic Sea Kayaking Class-room Instruction: Pierce County Chambers Creek Environmental Services Building, University Place.

April �5, Thu., 6:�0-9:�0 p.m. Basic Sea Kayaking Class-room Instruction: same location as above.

April �8, Sun., noon-4 p.m. Pool Session: swim test and res-cue techniques at Clover Park High School Pool, Lakewood.

April 2�, Wed, 6:�0-9:�0 p.m. Basic Sea Kayaking Class-room Instruction: Pierce County Chambers Creek Environmental Services Building.

April 24, Sat., 8:�0 a.m.-4 p.m. Open-water session: wet exit/recovery and paddling/bracing skills-instruction, practice, and critique at American Lake.

April 25, Sun., 8:�0 a.m.-4 p.m. Open-water session: wet exit/recovery and paddling/bracing skills-instruction, practice, and critique at American Lake.

Graduation Requirements:• Attend all three evening classes• Successfully complete the pool session, including a pool

swim of 50 yards without flotation • Successfully complete two open-water sessions, includ-

ing demonstrating cold-water exit, solo re-entry and assisted re-entry

• Successfully complete two club-sponsored paddles, which must be at least four hours on saltwater. Demonstration of a suc-cessful wet exit and solo re-entry is required on each paddle.

Course Fee: $199 for Mountaineers members, $249 for non-members.

Additional Costs: While boats are provided at no extra cost for the pool session, each student will be required to provide a single sea kayak or rent one for both open-water sessions (April 24 & 25). The committee will make arrangements to have kayaks brought to these day-long, open-water sessions for those who wish to rent. Kayak rental costs will be $70.60 for the weekend.

Students also will be required to have a wetsuit or dry-suit for the open-water sessions. We’ve made arrangements for dry-suit rental, if you want one, at a cost of $57.16 for the weekend. For the two qualifying club-sponsored paddles students will be responsible for providing their own boats. For those who do not own or have access to a kayak, this will mean renting boats two additional times. It will be the student’s responsibility to make arrangements to rent a boat and transport them for those trips.

Each student will be forwarded a copy of The Mountaineers’ sea kayaking student manual via e-mail for use throughout the course, at no cost.

Finally: students are encouraged to purchase the optional book by Derek C. Hutchinson, “The Complete Book of Sea Kayaking,” fourth edition, The Globe Pequot Press (approxi-mately $20). Please direct any questions to Peggy Gablehouse, gablehousep@aol.com.

Paddles, eventsIt’s that pool session time of year: We have pool sessions

at Peninsula High School every second, third, and fourth Wed. of March from 7 to 9 p.m. $10 admission for long boats and $5 for whitewater boats. Season passes are available at a reduced rate. Contact Christine Burris, 253-651-6610, christineburris@centurytel.net, for information on season passes.

March �, Wed. - Tacoma Sea Kayak Monthly Social. This is our monthly meeting at the Club House Grill on 6th Ave. in Tacoma. Please come promptly; meeting is 6:30-8:30 p.m. For additional information contact Christine Burris, above.

March 6, Sat. - Seminar: SK 4+ Incident Management with Body, Boat, Blade at Deception Pass. Regardless of the quality of your equipment, or how well you prepare for a trip, there is always the unpredictability of the sea and the human factor. Things can go wrong when attempting a journey on the sea. This full, one-day clinic is designed to put you in situations you least expected or prayed would never happen. We’ll be deal-ing with scenarios such as sea sickness, dislocated shoulders, a trapped paddler, a heart attack, holes in boats, broken paddles, lost equipment, imploded hatch covers, hypothermia, capsizing while towing in tidal races, VHF radios with dead batteries, flares that fizzle and more bad luck! After each incident we evaluate what went right and wrong. We’ll examine tools to best deal with each incident and the simplest solution to that particular problem. We’ll dissect failed equipment and look at ways to improve its performance in the future. We will learn how to decrease the chances of calamitous incidents and how to deal with them if they occur. Limit: 6 students per class. Fee for the course is $150. A second class may be opened up on March 7 if there is a waiting list. Sign up with leader: Christine Burris, 253-651-6610, christineburris@centurytel.net.

March 6 -7, Sat.-Sun. - Spring Training Weekend at Beautiful Bowman Bay. $40 will get you four clinics: Intro to Incident Management, Sea Kayak Navigation, Towing and Rescues, as well as Paddle Strokes/Boat Control. As always non-Mountaineers must sign a waiver. Contact Christine Burris, above, for information.Many more trips and activities to come!! Keep up with all our activities by searching the online activities page or visiting the Tacoma Sea Kayaking community on The Mountaineers website at www.mountaineers.org.Like to go someplace not offered? Call Howard Owen, 253-851-2677, hvo_guitar@yahoo.com, and he will try to incorporate it into future trips.

Snowshoe/Winter CampingChair: Maureen Brekke, 253-549-4245, foxbeacher@earthlink.net

We are in the middle of our snowshoe and winter travel/survival courses. Come back next fall to get ready for winter 2010-11! For current information please contact Chair Maureen Brekke, info above.

Skiing (backcountry, Nordic, snowboard)Chair: Don Thompson, donteleski@msn.com, 360-692-8236Cross-Country Ski : We offer beginner and moderate ski trips. Make new

friends and skiing partners for the ski season. For trip information, contact Fred Ostmann, 253-565-7680, ostmann@wamail.net.

To Sign Up: Check the activity “Skiing” on the club website, www.mountaineers.org, for up-to-date trips and information.

Backcountry Ski, Telemark and Randonee: We offer opportunities for begin-ners and experienced skiers who want to ski off-piste. Develop knowledge to go beyond the groomed trails and into the world of untracked lines. Skill coaching and trip planning will occur at every field trip and outing. Wednesday night coaching and instruction are held at the Snoqualmie ski area. For cur-rent ski trips contact Don Thompson, 360-692-8236, donteleski@msn.com, or Robie Pruden, 253-863-9360, prudenrl@earthlink.net.

Trips March 6, Sat. - Castle Saddle, Mt. Rainier (M1) 6 mi., 3000’+

elevation gain (with all of the yo-yo runs) Leader: Don Thomp-son, donteleski@msn.com, 360-692-8236.March ��, Sat. - Hogback Mtn., White Pass (M1) 4 mi., 1800’ plus any yo-yos. First preference given to this year’s backcountry students. We’ll purchase a one-ride ticket for $20. Eat out on the return car ride. Leader: Robie Pruden, 253-863-9360, prudenrl@earthlink.net.March 20, Sat. - Cowlitz Rocks. Mt. Rainier (M1) 8 mi RT 2000’ plus optional yo-yos. First preference given to this year’s Backcountry students. Perhaps the best easy tour up at Paradise. Leader: Robie Pruden, 253-863-9360, prudenrl@earthlink.net.March 27, Sat. - Bullion Basin, Crystal Mtn. (M1) 4 mi., 2500’ gain plus additional runs. Leader: Don Thompson, donteleski@msn.com, 360-692-8236.

Social DivisionChair: Karen Turner, karen-turner@comcast.com, 253-202-7458.(Family Activities, Folkdancing, Photography, Singles)

Family ActivitiesContacts: Kris Paynter, 253-759-4861, kjp4861@hotmail.com; Kathleen

Brammer, 253-896-4849, brammerka@comcast.net.We will meet sometime soon to plan our 2010 events, which

will go online under Family Activities at www.tacomamoun-taineers/com. If you have any specific questions, comments or suggestions, or would like to get involved, contact Kris Paynter or Kathleen Brammer.

Folk DancingContacts: Ned Raymond, 253-218-5205; Yvonne, 253-640-6359, YBraune@

gmail.comMarch 27, Sat. - Potluck Dinner and Dance, 6 p.m. -? Join the Tacoma Mountaineers folk dancers and friends at Sally’s 15th Annual March Madness Birthday Party. The fun starts at 6 p.m. with a potluck dinner, followed by dancing to the Folk Voice Band. The suggested donation is $4 to cover expenses. You may also contribute to the charity Family Renewal Shelter. The din-ner and dance is at Normanna Hall, 1106 15th Ave. in Tacoma. Directions: From I-5 take Exit 132 to Hwy 16. From Hwy. 16, take the Sprague St. exit. Follow Sprague to 15th and turn right on 15th. Follow 15th to Martin Luther King St. and Normanna Hall. Park on the street, or in the gravel lot across the street. Contacts: Ned, 253-218-5205, Yvonne, 253- 640-6359, Sally, 253-588-8902.

PhotographyChair: Joe Becker, 253-970-3100, josephebecker@comcast.com

Kudos! Congratulations go to local Mountaineers members Don Geyer and Joe Becker for having photographs published on National Geographic’s new Central Cascades geo-tourism map. The map highlights the history and heritage of the Central Cascades region, extending south from Tacoma through Oregon. It includes a large photograph of Mt. Rainier, taken by Don Geyer, and two smaller photographs, one of an elk and one from Toppenish, by Joe Becker.

The map is available for download or purchase at http://the-centralcascades.com/mapguide.

Congratulations, also, to Tacoma Mountaineer Jim Oliver for his one-man-photographic exhibit at the Tahoma Center Gallery. Jim’s exhibit, “The Follies Return,” ran through Feb. 28 and included approximately 50 photographs.

March 9, Tue. - Monthly Photo Meeting 7-9 p.m. at the Tacoma Clubhouse. We are back on our normal schedule of meet-ing the second Tuesday of each month. Please join us as we share photos from our night photography outing and images from our planned March 6 outing to Deception Pass. We’ll also discuss the latest photo news and upcoming photo outings. Bring some photos to share (prints, slides or digital files are all welcome). For more information contact the chair, Joe Becker, josephebecker@comcast.net, or see http://www.tacomamountaineers.org.

Singles Welcoming Committee: Karen Turner, karen-turner@comcast.com, 253-202-

7458; Connie Pyles, conniepyles@hotmail.com, 253-677-4397 The Tacoma Mountaineers social group was organized for the enjoyment of

all adult Mountaineers. The social group plans a wide variety of social and outdoor activities. Meet people of diverse ages and cultures with a similar interest in hiking, biking, backpacking, climbing, skiing, dancing, kayaking, dining, sailing, snowshoeing and theater - just a few of the activities we enjoy together.

New This Month - Tacoma Mountaineers Singles Meet-Up Tacoma Branch Mountaineers have opened a new website, listing social and outdoors activities for current and potential Mountaineers. Concerts, bike riding, wine tasting, nature walks and more! Visit us at www.meetup.com/Tacoma-Mountaineer-Singles.

EventsThursday Evening Gatherings: Join us for food with good company from 6-8 p.m. on the first and third Thursday of each month.

March 4 - Cloverleaf Tavern, 6430 6th Ave., Tacoma. 253-565-1111. Our first time here as a group. The Cloverleaf is a long-standing monument in tradition, thriving in Tacoma since 1950. Known best for their great pizzas and beverages. Join us!March �8 - Wildside Wine, 608 S. Oxford, Tacoma, 253-565-0811. A true wine shop off of 6th Ave. $5 buys you four tastings and goes toward the purchase of a bottle of wine. We’ll be mingling in the room next door. Bring a small snack to share.

What's your @ddress?Help us keep in touch with you! We are asking all members with email addresses to make sure we have it in our records. As the club moves into the future, we rely more and more on electronic media to communi-cate. Log in to your Profile page today and add or update your email with us. Thanks!

Go Guide March 2010 �7Tacoma

Lodge goingMountaineers lodges are open year-round for members and guests. Reservations are made through a prepay system which requires payment either with credit card or a check. If paying by credit card, simply call 206-521-6001 by 5 p.m. for all lodges except Meany (www.brownpapertickets.com; 800-838-3006) on the Thursday prior to the weekend to reserve a stay at one of the lodges. If paying by check, the payment must be received by 5 p.m. Thursday prior to the weekend you wish to reserve. When reserving anywhere but Meany, call club headquarters, 206-521-6001, by 5 p.m. on Thursday to verify that payment has been received and that a reservation has been secured. Cancellations: All cancellations, except for Meany, must be made at club headquarters by 5 p.m. on the Thursday before the lodge visit. The cooks must know how many are staying by this deadline in order to purchase the appropriate amount of food. That is also the deadline for refunds.

To reserve space in advance at all lodges except Meany, log on to www.mountaineers.org, and click on “Lodges” in the top menu bar; for Meany, see contact info above

Capacity 97Meany 60 mi. one way from Seattle Call 253-926-0867 (chair@meanylodge.org), for special group and non-profit rates or Fri. overnights

Reserve via www.brownpapertickets.com or 1-800-838-3006

Day use Full Weekend Sat. overnight Holiday Weekends*Adult member 25 95 80 130Adult guest 35 105 90 135Child member (-14 yoa) 12 60 45 90Child guest (-14 yoa) 20 70 55 100Meals includedSeason pass:Age 14+ - $480 ($430 before Dec. 1)Age 5-13 - $350 ($300 before Dec. 1)

*MLK, Presidents Day wknds only; include Fri., Sat.,

Sun. nights

Reservation fees, 2010For all lodges except Meany and Snoqualmie Campus, contact 206-521-6001 or www.mountaineers.org for reservations

For Meany, reserve online at www.brownpapertickets.com; see Snoqualmie below for contact info.

Figures are in dollars on a per person basis All overnights include next morning’s breakfast

Baker 145 mi. one way from Seattle Lodge open from Friday eve to Sunday noon. See Mountaineers.org/lodge/baker for more infoCapacity 64

Friday night Sat. & Holidays Weekend Extended openingsAdult member 24 31 55 Same asAdult guest 32 39 71 “Sat. & Holidays”Child member (-14 yoa) 15 21 36 rates.Child guest (-14 yoa) 23 29 52 IncludesMeals included (add $3 Sat. bkfst Dnr & Sun. bkfst Sat.,Sun. bkfst., Sat. dnr dinner, breakfastwhen lunch is provided)

Stevens 75 mi. one way from Seattle Children under 5 not allowed; Lodge open Friday eve through Sunday afternoonCapacity 55

Friday night Saturday Weekend* Extended openingsAdult member 15 30 45Adult guest 22 43 65 (Extended with Sat. rates)Child member (-14 yoa) 8 17 25Child guest (-14 yoa) 15 20 35Meals included Sat. bkfst Dnr & Sun. bkfst *2 nights; lunches excludedNo charge for day use

Note: Check the “Lodge Going” news in the Go Guide for special rates and packages offered throughout the year by individual lodges.

Snoqualmie 50 mi. one way from Seattle Free off-road parking in lot nearby when property road closed by snowCapacity 77 acres, event dependent

Group RatesFriends and group rates are available. Contact Mary Lynch, snoqualmiecampus@yahoo.com, 425-434-6177, for scheduling group events. For members and guests, check the monthly calendar in the Go Guide, the website at www.snoqualmiecampus.org or con-tact Brown Paper Tickets (www.brownpapertickets.com) reservations.

Baker LodgeHold on to your skis. There is still an abundant supply of

snow at Mt Baker for all of your downhill or cross-country sports. Although it is still winter on the ground, the lengthening daylight above makes for an ideal combination to enjoy one of nature’s wonderlands.

Winter at Mt. Baker Lodge—Though the lodge is reserved for events, all are invited to stay at Mt. Baker Lodge during The Mountaineers intermediate climbing field trip, Feb. 19-21, and the Splitboard Festival, March 26-28.

The rustic Mountaineers lodge is just a few steps from the downhill ski runs and offers a warm, friendly place for meals, overnight lodging, and a good social time in the evening. Or, you can just look out the window at Mt. Shuksan while you plan more spring skiing trips in this beautiful and challenging area of the North Cascades. Join us at one of the prime winter recreation areas in the Pacific Northwest.

The lodge will be open every weekend in March. Openings in April and May will depend on snow conditions and registration. Check the Go Guide for more information. Questions about the lodge should be directed to the weekend chair.

At times during the season, Mountaineers activity groups have signed up for specific weekends. Though groups may be scheduled for a weekend, unless otherwise indicated, the lodge is open to all Mountaineers and non-Mountaineers members on all dates, with reservations on a first-call basis through online registration or at The Mountaineers Program Center, 206-521-6001. Payments can be made at time of reservation with credit card or by delivering a check to the program center.

Questions about lodge facilities can be directed to Bill Woodcock, 206-696-6127, or Judy Sterry, 206-366-2750. You may also visit the Baker Lodge website, www.mountaineers.org/lodge/baker, for more information.

Winter schedule and hostsThe following schedule lists activities already planned.

Unless otherwise indicated, the lodge is open by 7 or 8 p.m. on Fridays. If you need a more specific opening time, call the ap-propriate host. Trail lights from the parking lot to the lodge are on until 10:30 p.m. and the trail is marked with short flags and/or poles. If you arrive after 10:30 p.m., be prepared with a flashlight or headlamp. Each person should bring a sleeping bag, personal gear, and a flashlight. Equip your car with a shovel and chains.

Feb. 19-21—Seattle Mountaineers Intermediate Climbing Course. Hosts Arlene Younce and Bill Woodcock, 206-696-6127, plus Leslye Coe, 206-524-7345.

Feb. 26-28—Winter Weekend, Foothills Branch Telecamp. Host Judy Sterry, 206-366-2750.

March 5-7—Winter Weekend, Bellingham Mountaineers Avalanche Class, Hosts Frank Petro and daughters.

March 12-14—Exclusive Use. Host Judy Sterry, 206-366-2750.

March 19-21—Winter Weekend. Hosts Becky Morgan and Bob Wavernack, 360-793-4974, plus Leslye Coe, 206-524-7345.

March 26-28—Splitboard Festival, see www.splitboardfes-tival.com. Host Judy Sterry, 206-366-2750.

April 2-4—Winter Weekend. Hosts TBD and if reservations are sufficient.

April 9-11—Winter Weekend. Hosts TBD and if reservations are sufficient.

Saturday and Sunday breakfast, and Saturday dinner, are served on weekend openings unless otherwise indicated.

Group reservations: members, publicTo ensure that there is room for your group and to avoid

scheduling conflicts, please contact Judy Sterry, 206-296-4916, jsterry60@comcast.net, for November-May reservations. Con-tact Jim Gipson, 425-985-0616, gipwood@msn.com, for June-October reservations before publicizing the date of your event.

Non-scheduled openings may be arranged if hosts can be found, but because most of our volunteer hosts are working full-time, midweek reservations may be hard to staff. The sooner you ask, the more likely it is that someone can be found.

Free weekends at Baker Lodge!The Baker Lodge Committee needs additional help to operate

and keep the lodge open. We’re looking for energetic individu-als (or couples) from all branches to help host for a weekend or two. Committee members generally volunteer to host two or three weekends in the winter and/or summer and frequently with other hosts. If you wish, you can host your favorite theme (such as a holiday or family-oriented gathering) or create an activity focus (e.g., photography, taffy pulling) for your weekend. We welcome new ideas.

Hosting duties involve opening and closing the lodge, su-pervising meal preparation and coordinating other lodge tasks. Duties can be performed in a flexible manner, leaving time for your own enjoyment of the weekend. (Occasionally there are requests and opportunities for midweek hosting.) Benefits of hosting include free weekends, the camaraderie of other mem-bers, and the pleasure of creating a memorable lodge experience for generations to come. For more information contact Bill Woodcock, 206-696-6127, wawoodcock@gmail.com; or Judy Sterry, 206-296-4916 jsterry60@comcast.net. You may arrange an opportunity to co-host with a seasoned committee member to find out if you would like to become a host.

Driving directionsDrive N. on I-5 to Bellingham. Take Exit 255, the Mt. Baker

Highway. Drive E. on SR-542 about 54 mi. to the ski area. At the junction in front of the Firs Lodge, turn right onto the one-way loop road. The parking lot for The Mountaineers lodge is on the right side of the road about 0.3 mile beyond the Firs. Driving time approximately 1-1/2 hrs. from Bellingham and 3 hrs. from Seattle.

Kitsap CabinA fond farewell to our chair

Kitsap Cabin has long benefitted from the excellent manage-ment skills, personal dedication and clear vision of Kitsap Cabin Chair Scott Eby. While he will remain a valued part of the Kitsap Cabin Committee, he has stepped down as chair in order to have more time to devote to his new position as president of The Mountaineers Foundation. Thank you, Scott, for your long years of service to Kitsap Cabin and all the best in your new role.

Meany LodgeSpring Carnival at Meany Lodge, March 6-7: This fam-

ily-centered weekend will feature fun and games for children of all ages and sizes. During the day, we’re planning a lot of snow-related activities, such as snow sculpting, a scavenger hunt and Meany’s own version of Olympic ski-cross, the Kirkland 500.

As the sun goes down, we turn to more sedate activities, such as snack time for the ever-popular s’mores and the impromptu Meany talent show after dinner, featuring the world renown Meany kids’ chorus, and last but not least, the world premier of another fantastic video from our own Yeti Productions. This event needs to be on your “A List.”

To make reservations visit www.brownpapertickets.com/event/86351. In the window that says, “I wish to buy a ticket for,” scroll down and select the date you want to visit, either March 5 or 6, then click “begin order.”

After Carnival weekend, Meany will be available for group rentals. Contact the committee to arrange your group’s use of Meany Lodge.

If you missed our annual New Year’s Eve party, you missed a good one. The full moon and fireworks on the ski hill were spectacular. We hope you were able to attend, but if not, catch us next year.

Snow Cat Schedule:Friday: departs, 7 p.m.Saturday: departs 8:30 & 10 a.m., and 5:30 p.m.Sunday: Departs 8:30 a.m.Departures are from Crystal Springs Sno-ParkMore information: Chuck or Joan Welter, 253-926-0867,

chair@meanylodge.org, for additional information.

Driving directionsWinter Driving Directions to Meany: Go to www.meany-

lodge.org, link to “guest information,” then link to “driving.” If this is your first visit, please read the FAQ and guidelines on the

guest information page.Winter Parking Requirements: This year, we’ll need our

Sno-Park permits and groomed trail stickers. The alternative is the one-day Sno-Park permit for each day you’ll be at Meany. These are available at retail outlets in town such as REI. The cat driver has a limited supply, so please buy your parking permits in Seattle.

The private parking lots next to the Crystal Springs park-ing lot are closed. This means we will be sharing the Crystal Springs lot with the residents of the area. Meany guests need to arrive early Saturday morning or Friday night. Washington State Parks has advised us that when the parking lot is full, it will be turning folks away.

Snoqualmie CampusHistorically, March brings the year’s highest volume of snow

to the Cascades. The campus is ready for it. We are still taking reservations for snow activities, including those for Saturdays and Sundays. Reserve via www.mountaineers.org. Spring is not far ahead, however, so contact us now to reserve your summer camping or picnic events. Please note that advance reservations are required on most days.

Reservations or site visits can be made by contacting sno-qulamiecampus@yahoo.com or 425-434-6177.

About the campus: Looking for a beautiful mountain out-ing close to Seattle? Looking for a private, year-round alpine wonderland with great views and location, some place for hiking, camping, group picnics? Looking for a base camp for exploration east and west of Snoqualmie Pass—the mountains, the rivers, the lakes? Give us a call and make your reservations now for your adventures on The Mountaineers’ Snoqualmie Campus!

Facilities: Snoqualmie Campus provides easy year-round access to nature, with free parking and easy bus access for group activities. In winter the slopes are great for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, avalanche training, snow-cave camping, LNT, sledding, geo-caching and snow play. In summer and fall there are picnic and camping areas to accommodate individu-als, families, small and large groups. There are open areas for meetings, classes and recreation. The Coleman Memorial Shelter is equipped with a gas grill (propane and firewood available at cost), fireplace and picnic table. The old lodge site has water, electrical hookups and toilets.

Features: The 77-acre campus Snoqualmie Campus is lo-cated less than an hour from downtown Seattle, two minutes off Interstate 90 at Snoqualmie Pass. The campus is nestled in the trees between Summit Central and Summit West ski areas, with beautiful valley and ridge views. Access to the Pacific Crest Trail, Iron Horse Trail and Gold Creek are minutes away.

Tall stands of silver fir, many alpine shrubs, grasses, flowers and numerous wetlands dot the hills and meadows. Visitors often see elk and nesting birds of prey.

A bit of history: The Mountaineers has maintained a pres-ence in the Snoqualmie Pass area since 1914 when it built a lodge on U.S. Forest Service land. The current campus property was purchased and a volunteer crew built a new lodge in 1948.

Continued on pg. 20

�8 March 2010 Go Guide

Join

Now!

About The MountaineersJoin the Northwest’s premiere OUTDOOR RECREATION organization -- The Mountaineers. Whether your interests run to leisurely hiking or alpine mountaineering, the club can take you there. Since 1906, The Mountaineers have pioneered wilderness exploration in the Northwest and beyond.

Club activities include HIKING, CLIMBING, ALPINE SCRAMBLING, BIKING, SAILING, KAYAKING, ALL TYPES OF SKIING (BACKCOUNTRY, TELEMARK, DOWNHILL, SKI MOUNTAINEERING, SNOWBOARDING), SNOWSHOEING, NATURE STUDY, BACKPACKING, INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL, ALL KINDS OF DANCING, AND PHOTOGRAPHY.

To get you started, we offer CLASSES in many of these sports & activities. Every month, hundreds of outdoor activities are offered for club members -- everything from easy day hikes to trips to Tibet! Most of the local outdoor trips are free to club members. There are also recreational and SOCIAL ACTIVITIES for singles, seniors, youth and families. Four LODGES offer our members overnight stays near Mt. Baker, Snoqualmie, Stevens Pass and Stampede Pass.

Join The Mountaineers and you also become a member of one of the largest advocates for WILDERNESS CONSERVATION in the Northwest, with opportunities to participate in activism and stewardship projects.

Get on board now for YEAR-ROUND FUN!

M E M B E R S H I P A P P L I C A T I O N Side 1 PLEASE PRINT ONE MEMBER PER CARD (206) 521-6000 Phone (206) 523-6763 Fax

The Mountaineers 7700 Sand Point Way N.E. Seattle, Washington 98115

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CityMailing Address (Street+Apt. or P.O. Box) State Zip

Work Telephone Employer

Birthdate (MM/DD/YY) REQUIRED Home Telephone E-mail Address

❑ Previous Member

Member No.(if known)

For office use only

Branch Affiliation (Choose one): ❑ Tacoma❑ Seattle❑ Olympia❑ Kitsap❑ Everett❑ Bellingham

Check one One-time Initiation Fee Dues Total❑ Individual $35 + $73 = $108❑ Family $35 + $130 = $165❑ Child of member(13 and under) none❑ Student (w/copy of Student ID, or ages 14-18) $20 + $48 = $68❑ Senior (69 and over) $20 + $36 = $56

Name of spouse (if applicable)

If joining as Family please list names and birthdates of children: (you will still need to fill out sepa-rate applications for each child)

Birthdate (MM/DD/YY)

Dues (from rates above)Round up and support Mountaineers conservation, programs and lodges!

❑ $5 ❑ $10 ❑ $25 ❑ other

Total Enclosed

Important! Complete and sign both sides of this cardYour membership cannot be activated until you have signed the Release and Indemnity Agreement.

Payment Method: ❑ Check ❑ Mastercard ❑ Visa ❑ Cash

Exp. DateCard No.

Signature of cardholder

w w w . m o u n t a i n e e r s . o r g

Optional:❑ NO ROSTER LISTING - The Mountaineers publishes a roster of member names, addresses and phone numbers. It is distributed within the club only, and mainly used by volunteers. Check here if you DO NOT wish to be listed. ❑ ANONYMOUS DONOR - Members who make a contribution may be included in donor lists published in The Mountaineer. Check here only if you have made a contribution and DO NOT wish to be listed.❑ NO OUTSIDE MAILINGS - The club very rarely loans its mailing list to other nonprofit organizations with common interests in outdoor recreation or conser-vation. (We do not sell the list.) Check here if you do NOT wish to be included in such mailings.

➔

I, (print name) hereby state that I wish to participate in courses and/or activities offered by The Mountaineers, a non-profit corporation. I recognize any outdoors activity may involve certain dangers, including but not limited to the hazards of traveling in mountainous terrain, accidents or illness in remote places, force of nature, and the actions of participants and other persons. I further understand and agree that without some program providing protection of its assets and its leaders, The Mountaineers would not be able to offer its courses and activities.

In consideration of and as part payment for the right to participate in the activities offered by The Mountaineers, I agree to RELEASE, HOLD HARMLESS AND INDEMNIFY The Mountaineers and its members from any and all liability, claims and causes of action arising out of or in any way connected with my participation, or the participation of any minor that I am signing on behalf of, in any activities offered by The Mountaineers. I personally assume all risks in connection with these activities. If I am signing on behalf of a minor, I further agree to HOLD HARMLESS AND INDEMNIFY The Mountaineers and its members from all liability, claims and causes of action which the minor may have arising from the minor’s participation in activities. The terms of this agreement shall serve as a release and indemnity agreement for my heirs, personal representative, and for all members of my family, including any minors. (Parents or legal guardians must sign for all persons under eighteen (18) years of age.)

I have read this release and indemnity agreement and have fully informed myself of its contents before I have signed it.

Signature of Participant Date

Signature of Parent or Guardian If Participant Is Under 18 Years Of Age Date➔

Please submit a separate, signed Release and Indemnity Agreement for each member joining, including all children. This form may be photocopied, or you may obtain additional membership forms at: http://www.mountaineers.org/join or by calling Member Services at (206) 521-6001.

Annual Release and Indemnity Agreement - Side 2

CCAT

Benefits ■ Hundreds of free or low-cost activities

each month: everything from hikes to rock climbing to bike rides to films

■ Low-cost courses in outdoor skills (climbing, scrambling, kayaking, navigation, wilderness travel, first aid, photography & more!)

■ Discounts in our bookstore

■ Use of The Mountaineers Library

■ Participation in conservation activism and stewardship programs

Photo: Geoff Pegler

❑ Foothills

Registration: www.mountaineers.org; 206-521-6001 or 800-573-8484

Go Guide March 2010 �9

OUR MISSION: To enrich the community by helping people explore, conserve, learn about, and enjoy the lands and waters of the Pacific Northwest.

Mountaineers Headquarters7700 Sand Point Way N.E., Seattle, WA 98115 E-mail: clubmail@mountaineers.orgWeb: www.mountaineers.org Ph: 206-521-6000 Fax: 206-523-6763Accident/Emergency Report 206-521-6030Signing up for activities206-521-6001 or 1-800-573-8484(OR LEADER’S NO. IN TRIP LISTING) Hours: M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed 3-4 p.m. Wed.)Phones: Voice messages only from 12:30-1:30 p.m. M,Tu,Th, F, and 3-4 p.m. Wed.FacilitiesBookstore: M,Tu,Th,F 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. but closed 3-4 p.m.Library: (Check hours on website and member services before visiting)Business offices: M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m.Room Reservations: 206-521-6005Business phonesGeneral 206-521-6000Executive Director Martinique Grigg, 206-521-6009Accounting Eileen Allen, 206-521-6008Bookstore Jeff Bowman, 206-521-6002Controller Blair Cossey, 206-521-6007Marketing/Outreach Richard Barringer, 206-521-6010Member Services 206-521-6001Public Policy Leesa Wright, 206-521-6012Publications Brad Stracener, 206-521-6013

Officers of The MountaineersPresident Tab WilkinsPresident-Elect Mona WestV.P. Recreational Properties Dave ClaarVice President Publishing Don HeckTreasurer Gavin WoodySecretary Lorna CorriganTrusteesKirk Alm, Richard Draves, John Flanagan (Olympia), Dale Flynn, Steve Glenn (Bellingham), Gerry Haugen (Foothills), Ed Henderson, Lynn Hyde, Jimmy James (Kitsap), John Ohlson, Mark Scheffer, Tom Shimko (Tacoma), Mike Maude (Seattle), Dave Shema, Rob Simonsen (Everett), Mona WestProperty DivisionV.P. Recreational Properties Dave ClaarMeany Lodge Chuck WelterMt. Baker Lodge Dale Kisker, Becky MorganPlayers/Kitsap Coordinator Jamie GordonSnoqualmie Campus Mary LynchStevens Lodge Greg KrisingerConservation DivisionChair Michael ShurgotPollution Rodger HerbstFish & Wildlife Dyche KinderForest Watch Harry RombergMarine & Shorelines Fran TrojeMountains to Sound Judi MaxwellNW Energy Coalition Rep. Ed HendersonNW Environmt’l Issues Course Terri Cloonan

Rivers Fran TrojeState Parks Fran TrojeWater Norm WinnRecreational Resources DivisionChair Tom O’KeefeRecreational Access Ed Henderson, Fran TrojeOutdoor Ethics Stephen SummersTrail Maintenance Annik WolfeAdvisory/Special CommitteesArchives Karyl WinnBylaws/Policies Don Schaechtel Finance Jordan RoderickHistory Lowell SkoogLibrary Dennis SampsonRisk Management VacantMembership Ken HahnSafety Dan LaurenThe Mountaineers Books1001 SW Klickitat Way, Ste 201, Seattle, WA 98134Books Governance Board Chair Don HeckPublisher Helen CherulloWebsite www.mountaineersbooks.orgThe Mountaineers FoundationPresident Scott EbyVice President Jamie GordonSecretary Marcia Hanson Treasurer Jerry ScottWebsite: www.mountaineersfoundation.orgAddress: P. O. Box 25590, Seattle, WA 98165—an inde-pendent, non-profit, 501(c)(3) charitable organization

Sending you on your wayThere are seven branches offering Mountaineers activities: Bellingham, Everett, Kitsap, Olympia, Seattle, Foothills and Tacoma. All members may sign up for any activity in any branch, subject to prerequisites and qualifications as stipulated by the particular activity. The following information pertains to all club outings and activities, no matter the branch. Refer to particular activity preambles in this Go Guide for trip ratings, classifications and special equipment or skill prerequisites. Trip and course registration can be accomplished online except where noted.

Participation: The Mountaineers recommends you sign up for a trip online in most cases. By selecting “Activity Search” from the main page of our website, you will be taken to a search page where you can find a trip on the basis of date, destination, event name, branch, leader or type of activity. All the details will then appear: when registration starts and ends; a brief description of the trip or event, leader contact data and space availability. If you do not have access to the internet, you can sign up for an activity by calling club headquarters during the registration period indicated in the Go Guide listing of the event. You will notice in the Go Guide and online that some events require you to only contact the leader to sign up. Unless otherwise noted in the event listing, DO NOT CALL LEADERS AFTER 9 P.M. If you have any questions not answered in the event listing online or in the Go Guide, please call the leader of that event. Some trips include prerequisites: Those trips which involve some technical skills (e.g., climbing, scrambling, skiing, kayaking, sailing), require that participants either graduate from the relevant courses or obtain the status of equivalent from the particular activity (contacts are listed under the activity heading). Children: Family Activities and other family events require that a parent or guardian accompany all children during the entirety of the event. Like all members, children must have a waiver on file with club headquarters. (Children under 14 are automatically included in their parent’s membership.) Keep in mind the child’s ability and interests when registering for an activity. If you need to take a break or leave due to issues with the child, always notify the trip leader. Children may not be dropped off alone for an event or trip. Adults are responsible for bringing all food, beverages, weather-appropriate clothing and Ten Essentials for their family members. The event leader may decide to leave without you if you are more than 15 minutes late.

Preparation: Most Mountaineers trips over land require that you carry the Ten Essentials (see below) and avoid the use of cotton for clothing. Lead-ers can opt to leave hikers at the trailhead who are clad in cotton or boots that don’t pass hiking muster (i.e., those without lug soles and as a rule of thumb, bend so that toe and tongue touch). The safety of the entire group and their objective to reach the destination preclude inclusion of ill-equipped backcountry travelers no matter the season. Defer to the leader for any other gear requirements. The Mountaineers maintains a maximum participation level of 12 and a minimum of 3; refer to the particular trip listing for maximum numbers less than 12. Dogs are only allowed on hikes so designated.

Carpools: Volunteer carpooling is always encouraged by The Mountaineers, even though it is not coordinated by club headquarters. Individuals may volunteer as a driver or contact a driver to request a ride when registering online for the particular trip (check after 1 p.m. on the Friday before the trip). Each passenger is required to pay the driver 12 cents per mile and contribute equally to any money spent by the driver on passes required for that trip. Carpools are not an undertaking of The Mountaineers. Drivers and passengers participate voluntarily. The Mountaineers makes no claim as to the worthiness of vehicles, ability of drivers or appropriateness of passengers. No liability will result to The Mountaineers from voluntary carpooling. Drivers must carry the required state minimum of insurance.

The wait list: If you find an event is full, you can opt to be put on a wait list but for only one event (no double-booking). The onus falls completely on the wait-listed from this point. Check online or call club headquarters to monitor your status before carpools have been established and before the close of registration for that event. If you become registered for that event after being on the wait list and do not show up for the event, you will be regarded as a ‘no-show’ and still be subject to any fees relative to the event. It is paramount that you contact the club online or via phone prior to the trip if you become registered for an event and cannot attend (see “Rules of Cancellation” below).

Cancellations: If you need to be removed as a participant in an event or from a wait list, you must request removal before registration ends for that event. This may be done through your online profile page of the club’s website or by calling club headquarters during business hours (see hours on back page of this Go Guide). If you cannot do this, it remains essential that you at least call the leader of the event, and the driver if you were to carpool, to notify them that you will not attend. Otherwise you become a ‘no-show’ and are subject to the revocation of some if not all club privileges while still obligated to pay all fees such as your mileage share for carpooling. All course cancellations or fee-based event cancellations must be arranged through club headquarters or the course administrator when stipulated and are subject to a cancellation fee.

Non-members welcome: The Mountaineers welcomes its friends in the com-munity to sample our club by registering as a guest for a trip or event. Guests may do this up to twice a year only if a signed Release and Indemnity Agree-ment (waiver) is submitted to club headquarters or online prior to registering for the event. (The waiver can be found on our website or by calling club headquarters at the numbers in the upper right corner of this page.)

Trip ratingsRating systems are based on mileage, elevation gain and difficulty of the

terrain. The ratings assume optimal conditions. Bad weather, getting off route or very soft snow, for example, can make a trip more difficult than its normal rating. Climbs: C = Conditioner; A = Alpine; G = Glacier; R = Rock. Scrambles: (These are non-technical, off-trail trips to a summit, often on snow and/or rock.) Ratings for scrambles consist of a letter, followed by two digits. C = Conditioner; R = rock scramble; S = snow scramble; SR = snow and/or rock; O = other—not enough rock or snow to count as R or S. Difficulty (first digit) is rated from 1 (easiest) to 5 (toughest). The second digit = technical difficulty, rated from 1 (least technical, least exposed) to 5 (most technical and most exposed). Hikes: E = Easy (up to 8 mi. RT, up to 1200’ elevation gain). M = Moderate (up to 12 mi., 1200’-2500’ gain). S = Strenuous (up to 14 mi., 2500’-3500’ gain). VS = Very Strenuous (over 14 mi. and/or more than 3500’ gain).

Trail Guides (most recent edition)MR: 50 Hikes in Mt. Rainier National ParkNC: 100 Hikes in the North Cascades National Park RegionGP: 100 Hikes in the Glacier Peak RegionAL: 100 Hikes in the Alpine LakesIN: 100 Hikes in the Inland NorthwestCW: 55 Hikes in Central WashingtonSCO: 100 Hikes in the South Cascades & OlympicsSCW: Seattle City WalksOM: Olympic Mountains Trail GuideBHWC: Best Hikes With ChildrenCAG 1 (2 or 3): Cascade Alpine Guide, Vol. 1 (2 or 3)TC: Teanaway Country, EC: Entiat CountryHSC: Hiking Snohomish CountyHWC: Hiking Whatcom CountyHMSG: Hiking the Mountains to Sound GreenwayGTTM: Guide to Trails of Tiger MountainGTCM: Guide to Trails of Cougar MountainBSHS: Best Short Hikes in the South CascadesBSHN: Best Short Hikes in the North CascadesWWH: Winter Walks & HikesWHB: Walks and Hikes on Beaches of Puget SoundWWA: Exploring Washington Wild AreasSRW: Snowshoe Routes WashingtonXCST1: Cross Country Ski Tours — North CascadesXCST2: Cross Country Ski Tours — South Cascades & Olympics

Abbreviations CG-Campground NP-National Park (NPF = fee)E, W, N, S-East, etc. NWFP-NW Forest PassFS-Forest Service P&R-Park & RideGT-Green Trails Rd-RoadHS-High School RS-Ranger StationHwy-Highway RT-Round TripI-Interstate (eg. I-5) SP-State Park (SPF = fee)Jct-Junction SR-State RouteMi.-Miles TH-TrailheadMRNP-Mt. Rainier USGS-US Geo. Survey

Ten Essential Systems required on all Mountaineers trips over land1. Navigation2. Sun Protection3. Insulation

4. Illumination5. First-aid supplies6. Fire7. Repair kit and tools8. Nutrition (extra food)9. Hydration (extra water)10. Emergency shelter

Sea Kayak Essentialsadditional to Ten Essentials on all sea kayak trips1. Flotation each end of kayak 2. PFD (USCG approved) 3. Paddle 4. Paddle tether 5. Spray skirt 6. Bilge pump with flotation 7. Self-rescue paddle float 8. Whistle or air horn 9. 50 ft. floating tow rope 10. Waterproof flashlight or chemical lightstick 11. Repair kit (duct tape) 12. Extra clothing in waterproof bag The following items are recommended for all trips and may be required for some: 13. Spare paddle 14. Rescue sling 15. Flares 16. Chart in waterproof case 17. Waterproof wristwatch 18. Wetsuit or dry-suit 19. Waterproof jacket 20. Hat with visor 21. Pogies or gloves 22. Neck strap for glasses 23. Sunscreen (water resistant with SPF 25 or higher)

Sailing Essentialsadditional to Ten Essentials on all sailsUse a soft duffel bag that does not scratch woodwork for easy stowing of your essentials.1. Non-skid deck shoes (or sea boots) with non-marking soles2. Heavy-duty gloves (preferably leather) for line handling (exposed finger-tips okay)3. Warm clothing head to foot (Note: The ambient temperature on the water is usually lower than on land)4. Foul-weather gear5. Sunglasses6. Sunscreen7. Knife on lanyard8. Whistle on a lanyard9. Food and drink10. Flashlight11. Clothing for sun protection, head to toeThe following items are useful but not required:1. Personal flotation device (life jacket). Skippers carry basic life jackets on board2. Safety harness and pendant with waterproof flares and/or strobe

Going to the source

Meeting t ime and place

Anatomy of a trip listing

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Sept. 9, Sat. - Shannon Ridge (M) (USGS Mt. Shuksan) 6 mi., 2,200’ gain. Meet 9 a.m. at jct. of SR-20 and Baker Lake Rd. 2 hrs. Martin Mountaineer, 206-555-1212 (s8/30-9/7) NC

➔

Drive time from branch’s major city (approx.)

Leader’s name, contact info

Abbreviated guide title (see Trail Guides above)

First and last dates to register

Date, day, destination

Difficulty (M=moderate; S=strenuous; E=easy)

Required map

Length of hike, elevation gain

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20 March 2010 Go Guide

Gone for the weekendUse this handy guide to target a weekend day that is begging you to get outdoors (see appropriate listing elsewhere for details).

Go to the marketplace

Go volunteer

This second lodge served The Mountaineers for more than 50 years before it burned May 12, 2006. What remains today are outbuildings and incredible alpine terrain.

All branches welcome: Like all Mountaineers facilities the Snoqualmie Campus is available for use by groups and individual members. Need a quiet, central place to escape to for a day or a week? Want to have a camping trip, a hiking base camp, a travel base? Putting on a class for hiking, navigation, scrambling, or any of The Mountaineers’ numerous other outdoor activities? The Snoqualmie Campus is the ideal spot for you. To discuss your specific needs, get in touch with us through the contact information provided below.

Volunteers and donations welcome: The Snoqualmie Cam-pus, like other Mountaineers lodges and similar facilities, is vol-unteer operated—supported by user fees and donations. We need volunteers for campus hosts and work parties; we seek donations of building materials and supplies for campus activities.

Campus hosts: We are looking for volunteers who would like to stay on campus this summer, in their own tent or RV, as cam-pus caretakers. You will provide basic, friendly host services to campus visitors this summer. The length of stay is flexible. Why not spend some time in alpine splendor? Be a campus host!

Work parties: The Snoqualmie Campus Committee needs volunteers to help host on weekends in the winter. Volunteers can earn work credits toward free skiing via 2010 Summit ski vouchers—please contact us.

• Snowshoe trail enhancements and marking. We hope to bring back the old snowshoe route for the 2010 winter season and will be hosting work parties to brush and mark snowshoe trails.

• Beacon Basin improvements. Work parties will enhance the existing avalanche beacon training system.

• Upper tow-shack renovation. Repairs on the former “rope tow” shack: fix the roof leaks, remove the tow motor, clean or remove other old equipment to create classroom space.

• Monetary donations to the Snoqualmie Campus operating fund are needed to repair the storm-damaged road, as well as

Lodge going (cont.)the Coleman Memorial roof, and to transform the tow hut into classrooms. We are looking for donations or will consider barter-ing for use of the campus.

Snowshoes and other camping supplies are needed to help assist courses taught on campus. Also needed: yurt for classroom and warming spot, shovels, snowshoes, snowmobile, the loan of a snowmobile for events, clippers, saws, wheelbarrows and first aid supplies.

Use policy, fees and credits: If you need a readily-accessible, beautiful mountain site for your event, whether a family reunion, training session, or similar, call us to discuss your needs or let us show you around the property.

Our reservation-only policy includes all Mountaineers members, guests, the general public or any group interested in using the campus.

Daily user fees are $10/person or $25/family, payable in advance. No USFS or Sno-Park permits are required to use the campus, and no more than 12 persons can be in a group. Group and course rates are negotiable. Persons willing to perform cam-pus service projects can reduce or eliminate their user fees.

Our future: The Snoqualmie Campus Committee invites Mountaineers member input to plan and direct the campus’s future. We appreciate your e-mails, comments and suggestions about future campus projects and activities. Please e-mail us at snoqualmiecampus@yahoo.com.

More information: 425-434-6177, snoqualmiecampus@yahoo.com. You also can gain more details online at www.snoqualmiecampus.org.

Parking noticeMountaineers Snoqualmie Campus patrons should note a

change in parking procedures along SR-906 near Exit 53. The old Washington State Department of Transportation lot located across from the campus at Snoqualmie Pass has been privately owned and gated since last fall. Persons parking their vehicles in the lot without permission of the owners and a visible parking permit risk impoundment of their vehicles.

Mountaineers should not be using this lot for event parking without permission from the owners. The campus remains open for reservations. Questions in regard to accommodations at the campus, including parking, should be directed to Mary Lynch, the Snoqualmie Campus chair, snoqualmiecampus@yahoo.com.

Stevens LodgeCheck out our website for events

Visit www.stevenslodge.org to view current activities at the lodge. If you have questions regarding Stevens Lodge, contact Angela or Greg, 425-258-4847, greg@stevenslodge.org.

What to bring: a warm sleeping bag, toilet articles and a towel for the shower, suitable clothing, your snow gear and a flashlight. Some pillows are available, but feel free to bring your own if you desire. Bring a padlock if you wish to secure your ski equipment. There is a short 600-foot walk from the parking area to the lodge. Stow your gear in a pack suitable for walking the distance to the lodge. If you have a lot of gear, a small sled makes the trip more convenient.

Driving directions Take US-2 to the Stevens Pass Ski area. Turn into the parking

entrance just below Tye Creek Lodge (the old West Lodge) on the W. side of the summit. Stay left at the entrance and go around the hairpin turn at the far end of the lot, then continue to the upper level parking area, Lot #4. Park here along the snowbank if there is room, or in the spaces in the middle. Look for a steep Cat track/service trail leading up the bank at the far end of this parking lot. Grab your gear and follow the Cat track up, then turn right at the top, staying on the Cat track. Continue uphill past the lodge on the left (Penguins Ski Club) for 500’ until you come to a sharp 90-degree bend in the trail. The reddish-brown, four-story building is The Mountaineers lodge. Come in, stow your gear, and sign in on the main floor.

Classified advertising ratesClassified ads are 40 cents per word for Mountaineers members; 60 cents per word for commercial ads placed by members; 80 cents per word for non-members. Ads must be received with payment by the fifth of the month prior to the month of publication (i.e., Jan. 5 for the February issue). Please send ads and payment to: The Mountaineers, 7700 Sand Point Way N.E., Seattle, WA 98115.

Join Crystal Mountain Treks for the journey of a lifetime to Everest, Nepal, Tibet and other destinations. Nepali owned and operated for 20 years. Email: info@crystalmountaintreks.com. Web: www.crystalmountaintreks.com. Rare, signed K2 book: “The Last Step,” fine with dj, signed by

19 K2 climbers, including Houston, Bates, Wickwire, Reichardt, Schoening, etc. $500. maryagreen@comcast.net.5% discount for Mountaineers! SummitClimb.com and Sum-mitTrek.com—low prices, good trips. Call 360-570-0715 or e-mail Daniel Mazur@summittrekcom.

Family Activities Volunteers: Help kids and their parents ex-plore the alpine wilderness while learning safety, stewardship, and skills in the process. If you are currently on the leader list for the photography, kayaking, backpacking, hiking, navigation, naturalist, climbing, or scrambling committees and have an interest in working informally with families (children aged 3-14 and their parents or guardians), contact Courtenay Schurman about opportunities to share your expertise on small group outings (12 and under) with a qualified Family Activities leader to organize details. A great way to share your enthusiasm in low-key outings and grow young Mountaineers members from the bottom up! E-mail court@bodyresults.com to learn more and join in the fun this spring and summer.Wilderness Volunteers: Help The Mountaineers work towards wilderness area protections. Work is under way to 1) scope/map for new wilderness proposals, and 2) increase support for current wilderness bills proposed in Washington. This is exciting and rewarding work that will have lasting effects for

Washington’s wild areas. Contact Harry Romberg, Forest Watch co-chair, at 206-365-9302.Conservation Volunteers: Help The Mountaineers fulfill its mission to protect the natural areas of the Northwest by volun-teering with the club’s Conservation Division or the Forest Watch Committee. There are numerous ways you can join in the fun. No experience required, just an abiding interest in maintain-ing or promoting a healthy Northwest environment. For more details, call 206-521-6012, or send an e-mail to conservation@ mountaineers.org.Stewardship Volunteers: The Recreational Resources Division would love to work with you in raising stewardship awareness and involvement (i.e., trail maintenance work parties) within the membership of The Mountaineers. For more details, please contact Christine Wolf, 206-328-4890, glickwolf@earthlink.net.Kitsap Forest Theater needs your help! The Mountaineers Players perform at Kitsap Forest Theater every spring and

summer. We need help with sewing costumes, building and painting sets, collecting props, cooking for our crew at Kitsap Cabin, ushering, parking and working in concessions, as well as other tasks. If you would like to volunteer your time and talents with a fun group of people who enjoy producing qual-ity musical theater in a beautiful forest environment, give us a call. Please email showinfo@Foresttheater.com or call the Kitsap Forest Theater info line at 206-542-7815. Visit www.ForestTheater.com for more information.Help kids by helping HARK: Hikes and Active Recreation for Kids (HARK) is an Olympia and Kitsap Branch effort which provides kids who wouldn't otherwise have a chance to enjoy the outdoors an opportunity to do so. HARK needs volunteers for various duties (see respective branch sections of the Go Guide). Donations to HARK are always welcome. Make checks out to: HARK, The Mountaineers Foundation, P. O. Box 25590, Seattle WA 98165.

Hikes 3/6 Mt. Muller Tr. (KIT) 3/6 Big Ck Lp (OLY) 3/6 Ruby Beach-Kalaloch (OLY) 3/6 Swan Creek Canyon (TAC) 3/7 Oyster Dome, Sgls (SEA) 3/13 Pt Defiance Park (TAC) 3/13 Mid-Fork Snoqualmie, Sgls (SEA) 3/13 Deception Pass SP (EVT) 3/13 Kloshe Nanitch Tr. (KIT) 3/13 Marys Falls Camp (KIT) 3/13 Priest Pt. Park (OLY) 3/13 Cowiche Canyon (SEA) 3/14 Lower Lena Lk (OLY) 3/20 Pt Defiance Park (TAC) 3/20 Lk Youngs Perimeter Tr. (SEA) 3/20 Pack Forest (OLY) 3/20 Spada Lk, Sgls (SEA) 3/20 St. Edward SP, Sgls (SEA)

3/21 Rattlesnake Traverse (SEA) 3/27 Lena Lk (KIT) 3/27 Mt. Si, Old Tr., Sgls (SEA)

Lodges 3/6 Spring Carnival, Meany 3/20 Winter Wknd, Baker

Sails 3/6 Shilshole (SEA) 3/13 Shilshole (SEA) 3/13 Shilshole (SEA) 3/20 Shilshole (SEA) 3/20 Shilshole (SEA) 3/21 Shilshole (SEA)

Sea Kayak 3/13 Ketron Is. (OLY) 3/13 Tow Clinic (EVT)

Skiing 3/6 Castle Saddle (TAC)

3/13 Hogback Mtn. (TAC) 3/13 Copper Ck. Hut (SEA) 3/13 Mazama Ridge (FH) 3/14 Crystal Mtn (FH) 3/14 Leader’s Choice (SEA) 3/14 Blewett Pass (OLY) 3/20 Cowlitz Rocks (TAC) 3/20 Tatoosh Slopes (FH) 3/21 Crystal Mtn (FH) 3/27 Bullion Basin (TAC) 3/27 Mowich Lk (OLY) 3/27 Mowich Lk Road (OLY) 3/27 Snow Lk (FH) 3/28 Amabilis Mtn. (OLY)

Snowshoe 3/7 Artist Pt. (SEA) 3/14 Heather Park (KIT) 3/27 Mowich Lk (OLY)