From Camp Muir I was able to skin, without ski crampons, the entire upper Cowlitz to the start of Gibraltar Ledges thanks to rapidly softening snow in the early sun.
The ledges were in good shape with two rock crossings -- the rest looks to be melting rapidly. Stood on top of Gibraltar Rock at 10:45am and began skiing shortly thereafter.
Above the choke of Gib Chute, I took a few moments to contemplate the Nisqually ice cliff's disposition. It seemed temporarily sedate, so I committed and skied perfectly softened (though slightly brown) corn down the chute, glancing over my should every few turns to watch for falling debris. I traversed skier's left to cross the begschrund and shortly rejoined the snowfield.
I was contemplating taking the descent to the bridge so I dropped into one of the Nisqually chutes. The chutes seemed to be below the overnight refreeze level as they held unwelcoming semi-supportable crust. I decided against descending further and bailed left to regain the exit track of the snowfield.
Back at the car after 5:20 and 7,260' of kick ass skiing. Booyakashaaaaa
Rocks and ice along the ledge.
Little T from Gib Rock. Do not attempt to adjust your television sets.
Hippy death metal.
