A Look at Mt Shuksan

Most people see Mt Shuksan as a mountain to be admired and to draw inspiration from. It has also been said that it's the most photographed mountain, appearing in many different publications. I have countless pictures of it myself, one just can't resist to take another shot and gaze at this amazing mass of granite rock and snow.

Then there those who see Skuksan as a destination.

Shawn and three other great guys set off on their attempt to climb to the peak of Mt Shuksan. They were met with a misty rain which socked them in a cloud of whiteness. Their spirit of adventure was not damped by it, even as they met climbers on their way out who advised them to turn back due to the miserable weather. With the tents and kitchen set up, they enjoyed great food and company. I mean, who has fajitas and Guinness on a backpacking/mountaineering trip? Spoons are superfluous when one has an ice ax handy!

The next day greeted them with a beautiful sunrise and their trek to the summit began.

Mt Baker in the background.

The destination is looming ahead . . .

. . . but there is still a steep and arduous climb before they get there!

Nothing like a summit smile!

Of course that is just half the journey, what comes up must go down!

Rappelling down the rock face.

Here they are on their way back with all the gear back in their packs.

It was a long trek back, but I'm sure the excitement of having reach the top made the hike back just a little easier.