Fish Eagle Pass 10.24.07

was very excited all week because I knew the weather was suposed to be perfect. After reading some weekend trip reports I was even happier to read that someone had already plowed the way to my intended target Fish Eagle Peak (aka Solomon Mt.). As things go my water heater decided to give it up and I spent half my day waiting for the replacement to arrive. Initially I expected it to take most of the day curtailing any climbing plans. I was excited when the repairman called to say he would be early. By the time I hit the road at 1pm I knew I would have to hustle. I parked at the South Scatter trail head and was off. The trail was mostly free of snow until the upper end of the first basin. I had no poblem with the route since it was plainly in the snow in front of me. I can't say I enjoyed the numerable creek crossings with the somewhat swollen waters. I managed to make it through all without any mishaps. By the time I reached the upper basin it was apparent I would make the summit after dark and I wasn't thrilled with the idea of descending by headlamp. I pushed on to Fish Eagle Pass instead. I had never been there so I thought it would make for a worthy destination. The Pass allows for some great views which I did my best to capture on camera. I picked my way along the ridge to get some pictures of Harding for those who recently summitted without much views. It was quite warm on the ridge which suprised me because it seemed quite cool on the way up. I had a quick bite and donned the headlamp for the descent. The moon was nearly full as it crested the Pass behind me which was quite stunning. I had no problems with the descent which was quite memorable by headlamp.




Approx 10 miles 3000ft of climb 5:00 car to car