We met up with Steve, Jon, Eric, Cindi, and Jeff at Jacks restaurant, and had a filling dinner, and enjoyed getting to know the group. We departed and then met at the climbers bivouac to set up camp. More enjoyable conversation ensued around the campfire, and we have some nice views of the mountain. The weather was uncertain, and most of us figured on some showers during the night. (never happened)Tyler and a friend of his showed up later that evening and planned to get an earlier start and climb alone so they could get back to Salem early.

The next morning the weather was beautiful and clear. In fact it was so nice that some of us were shedding clothing before we ever hit the trail. With camp broke we departed at 7am, and so began the trudge up. The pace was moderate and I think emjoyable for everyone. No one struggled to keep up, and I don't think anyone was forced to move slower than they wanted too. Never did I feel overly fatigued or winded. It was nice to look about and enjoy the views of Hood, Adams, and eventually Ranier.

We climbed up a combination of snow and rock, Steve opting for mostly a snow ascent as it was a more solid surface to climb on. We continued on to the summit about 30 minutes ahead of schedule, arriving at 11:30 am. The views down into the crater and lava dome were sublime. Rockslides could be heard and seen about every 10 minutes as if on cue. We lingered in the summit sun (with hardly any wind)for about an hour I suppose, before dawning pants for the glissade down.

Descending was a blast as we glissaded for what must have been 2/3 of the descent while above tree line. The only injury I incurred (bloodied elbow)was on the glissade as I had to self arrest a time or two (bare skin and self arresting don't mix)in order to slow down in the steepest sections. The last 2 miles in the trees blew by as we passed several tired groups taking it easy on the final leg of the journey. I think our pace was close to 4 mph as we covered it in about 35 minutes. My wife and I had a thoroughly enjoying time. Looking forward to the next climb!