Easton Glacier - 2015

Easton Glacier - September 5, 2015 
USFS Climbing Ranger Observations for September 5th, 2015 are as follows: The route up the Easton Glacier remains impassable due to a large crevasse at approximately 9,200 feet. As an alternative, most climbing parties are traversing easterly across the lower portion of the Easton Glacier in order to access the Squak Glacier and make their ascent to the summit from there. For more information on that route see the Climbing Ranger Observations for the Squak Glacier. Recent storms have deposited 2 to 4 inches of fresh snow on the glacier below 7500 feet with as much as 12 inches of fresh snow on the summit. This new snow could hide crevasses and other hazards. All parties should assess the route carefully as they make their ascent. 

Sandy Camp currently has some small patches of snow, but most tent pads remain dry. Running water is readily available throughout the area. Please remember to pack out all garbage and human waste using blue bags or another waste removal system. There will still be some beautiful days up on Mount Baker this fall, so get out there and enjoy it! Lucky trails!   

Fresh snow has recently fallen on Railroad Grade Trail and above.

A few inches of new snow is covering the glacier at lower elevations with as much as a foot of new snow higher up.

Climbers should assess the route carefully because new snow may hide crevasses.

Sandy Camp is still mostly snow free with running water readily available.

The route continues to traverse the lower Easton Glacier to access the Squak Glacier.

Please remember to pack out all garbage and other waste. 

Easton Glacier - July 20, 2015


The normal route up the Easton Glacier is currently impassable due to a large crevasse at about 9,200 feet. As an alternative, many climbing parties are choosing to traverse from Sandy Camp to the Squak Glacier route. For more information on this route see the Mt. Baker Climbing Ranger Observations for the Squak Glacier. All parties should assess snow bridges and other hazards carefully because the glaciers are changing quickly thanks to recent warm temperatures. Maker sure to get an early start on your summit day to avoid being on the glacier in midday heat.

Sandy Camp is melted out and running water is accessible nearby. Please remember to pack out all garbage and human waste using blue bags or another system. Thank you and happy climbing!


 
Easton Glacier - July 4, 2015 

USFS Climbing Ranger observations from July 4th, 2015 are as follows: An impassable crevasse exists at approximately 9,200 feet on the Easton Glacier Route. The unnavigable obstacle prevents climbing parties from reaching the Sherman Crater and summit of Mount Baker via the Easton Glacier. As a result, climbing teams have been observed choosing to ascend the Squak Glacier as an alternative route. Climbers who are leaving from Sandy Camp and the normal Easton Glacier Camps have been noticed traversing across the Easton Glacier onto the Squak Glacier between 6.000 and 8,000 feet. See the Squak Glacier Ranger Observations for further climbing information.

Nearly two-dozen established campsites exist snow free at and around Sandy Camps, all with running water nearby. Reports from overnight users describe the ravens and mice at Sandy Camp as aggressive and going to great lengths, such as eating through tent walls and opening zippers, in an attempt to eat unattended food. No toilets exist at Sandy and Climber's Camps this season. Be prepared with blue bags or other sufficient waste removal systems. Enjoy your time on Mt. Baker! 


Railroad Grade Trail is clear of snow and in good condition.

Dry, blue ice has been exposed on the Easton and Squak Glaciers.

Sandy Camp is mostly melted out and running water is available.

The route up the Easton Glacier is impassable at this time due to a large crevasse at about 9200'.

Easton Glacier - June 13, 2015

The Railroad Grade Trail is free of snow. 
Nearly a dozen dry campsites already exist at Sandy Camp.