Arrive at the Cerise Creek trailhead around ~10 am
Skin or boot pack up to Vantage Peak summit
Return to Vantage – Matier Col at 1,847m, continuing to Twin One Lake and to the ski cabin
Potential for the small cabin to be full, so tents recommended
·Day Two:
Skin to summit of Snowspider from the north-east ridge, gaining 950m from cabin
Ski back to cabin, then re-ascend Vantage – Matier Col (~340m cumm. gain from cabin)
Potential to ascend Mt Chief Pascal before ski out to cars if ahead of schedule and group willing
Notes:
Avalanche and weather conditions will have final say, however a ‘low’ rating nor bluebird skies is needed for a ‘go’ as conditions on the ground may vary from the regional forecast
Compression and slope stability testing will be performed at key points
Depending on vehicles and FSR conditions, alternative may be to drive up the Van Horlick FSR rather than the longer start from the Duffy
Participants must have:
Sufficient experience, knowledge/research on the area to share (or take over) the lead
Minimum AST 1 (AST 2 preferred)
Physical conditioning, backcountry skiing ability, and the appropriate gear necessary to complete the trip
Avy kit and proficiency with your transceiver
Ski boot-compatible crampons, ice axe likely needed for final summit approach(es)
Contingency
Plan B: substitute Vantage for Mt Chief Pascal, Day Two: Mount Taylor or Tzil
Plan C: Whistler-Blackcomb daytrip
Plan D: If real ugly, reschedule for better conditions