chapter 462
2/19/2017
Cascade Mt
a beautiful struggle
link to my Cascade folder 51 pics
So, as they say, we hiked up Cascade Mt. this week. It has been a long time dream for both of us. I've had the Carl Heilman Cascade Mt poster on my desktop since I retired and Colleen has for years longed to complete her first 46er. This photo is actually our view of Haystack (and Little Haystack) peak another 46er (got 150 likes on FB).
Our climb was indeed a struggle. Even though temps were moderate in the 30's, there is the long 5 mile slog up and back the steep slope ( 4-1/2 hr round trip). There was the snow factor: microspikes the whole way but started out carrying snow shoes. With snow greater than 8 inches DEC will ticket you if not wearing. Buried them in the snow on the way up to retrieve on the way down. Hard pack snow traction fine on the way up but in the afternoon warming slush footing became a sliding problem to stay upright. On the top solid rock and bits of ice and a 37 mph wind - stability just to stand up was an issue not to mention the numbing wind chill. DEC had just launched an avalanche warning for the high peaks this week. Long story short, WE LOVED IT.
This is one of the best hikes in NY. It can be a bucket list item for almost anyone. It became a REAL bucket list item for us (not fake news). Leave my ashes in a can of Spam on top of Cascade Mountain.
My hip has been aching to the point of questioning my ability to complete the hike, but strangely the next day I'm feeling "almost normal". Maybe this has been the cure I've been looking during the last year and a half ?
Weather conditions are important for high peaks hikes. Although temps were in the 30's at street level the 40 mph projected wind speed at the top gave a wind chill in the single digits. Cloud cover could completely disorient you if not careful.
Colleen spent a few minutes in the breeze figuring out how to do a pano with her cell phone. Came out pretty descent.
We were so proud of ourselves actually completing the journey then we saw a couple 4 year olds who had also made it to the top. Amazing. A dozen happy dogs too. All were having a pretty good time of it. Another couple enjoying butt sliding on the way down this same day - saves time and effort if you don't crash into rocks or trees and break a leg. Yellow trail marker.
Even the ride home was beautiful in the Adirondacks. Quick snapshot right thru the windshield. This is Upper Cascade Lake just near our trail head. Road built 1848. I recall seeing ice blocks being harvested here in the 70's. Believe they were used for the Mount Vanhoevenberg ski jump, bobsled, & winter festivals.
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