Hi, I'm considering climbing Mt Shasta in last week of March, 2003. The walk-up, Avalanche Gulch, will be exactly that, so I heard Cassaval ridge is the next easiest, winter-safe route. Before I buy a book on the area I'd like to get feedback about how dificult of a climb this is and what kind of gear people take up (should I bring wands or snow anchors to climb sections in pitches? is it mostly simuclimbed? is no rope needed?)

To give you an idea of my experience: I took a snow & ice course in Chamonix two years ago, climbed Mt Blanc de Tacul, trad-climb on rock to 5.10, but will be taking a novice up with me (strong hiker and climbs 5.7 on rock).

Any beta greatly appreciated, Colin

-- Colin Lee (semicolin1@hotmail.com), February 22, 2003

Answers

one more thing: I also hear that Green Butte Ridge is also a moderately easy route in winter. Any beta on this would also be appreciated. Is it less technical than Cassaval Ridge?

Colin

-- Colin (semicolin1@hotmail.com), February 22, 2003.