Sunday Service on Marmot

A 2 pm birthday party sent me packing early this morning.  The reward of leaving early was being in solitude in an otherwise busy, Hatcher Pass.

The early morning light show was spectacular along the mountains. The sunrise was casting dark shadows in contrast to the bright white snow and then other times illuminating the snow and clouds with bright oranges and pinks.  I felt close to God being in his country on this Sunday morning when most are sitting in a warm, church building. Hallelujah!

The video below shows my descent. The first few turns were nice after that the snow was a bit crusty underneath the few inches of creamy powder. Also, notice how those skiers tracks are all over the place, geez!

Meadow Creek Valley

Meadow Creek Valley, is quite possibly my favorite destination within the front range of the Chugach Mtns.  The ridge walking is ideal, peaks jet up from the valley floor 3000' and the views are anything but limited.  Its easy access and limited popularity makes this area one of those undiscovered gems you want to keep secret. 

I visited the area this past weekend.  Going with the intention of touring up the valley and seeing if there was any possibility of a snowboard descent.  Not unexpected, the snow was either non existent or rock solid. Scratching that idea I made an easy climb up toward a ridge to enjoy the views.

The big three just above Mt. Baldy

Mt. Vista

Redoubt and Illiamna are out; zoom in
and squint.

A good looking descent

On my way back down the ridge I ended up making a quick, exciting, blooper video of my descent down to Mile High Saddle.  It went just as planned!