03-25-2016-Casaval Ridge

Casaval Ridge is currently in great shape.  Good weather is currently on tap for today (March 25th), however, Saturday will see increasing clouds in the afternoon with snow flurries overnight.  Sunday (March 27th) will see the clouds thin shortly before a cold front moves in bringing increased clouds in the afternoon with occasional snow fall overnight.  Moderate to strong wind will prevent much new snow accumulation on the ridge top.  The winds will also make for challenging climbing conditions in general.  The increasing cloud cover will make "white out" conditions a strong likely hood.  Climbing into these kinds of conditions is not advised. Once one reaches the top of the ridge, near the base of Misery Hill, it is common for climbers to get disoriented in a "white out" and wander off of the wrong side of the mountain.  For those who want a challenging, but fun winter ascent of Mount Shasta, this route fits the bill.  This is not a route for the faint of heart, however.  While this route is not technically difficult, Casaval Ridge presents its difficulty by providing exposure to long slips and falls along much of the upper ridge line. It is recommended that one has strong self-arrest skills, route finding, and solid winter mountaineering experience and judgment!  For everyone else, we recommend waiting until weather shifts to true spring to early summer conditions. If you still choose to climb, check the avalanche advisory and wait for a solid multi-day window of good weather.  If you have questions, give us a call at 530-926-4511.