Trail Mix, Fall 2002

Mount Shasta Magnificence

BAWT's very first Mt. Shasta Expedition was a huge success! On Labor Day weekend we embarked on a challenging and rewarding climb up the North side of California's biggest volcano to raise money for BAWT programs.

The participants deserve an introduction. They are: Kristina Kohler, former BAWT consultant and first time backpacker; Todd Levitt, new member and first to reach his fund raising goal; Jed Paulson, volunteer since 1999; and Shane King, video pro, who lugged his 20+ lbs. worth of equipment up the mountain to capture it all for you.

“Snow School” began as soon as we set up base camp at 10,000’ We learned the art of self-arrest with an ice axe on a sandy patch of volcanic scree. A meal and quick briefing sent us to bed full of anxious excitement.

Our wake-up call came at 2:30AM. Those first hours, hiking up a moonscape of rock and snow, were surreal, but when the sun finally rose, it all seemed worth while. At 12,000’ Kristina announced that she had reached her summit. Shane, who was “seeing spots”, also called it a day. The rest of us stepped into our crampons, clipped into a rope and headed upward.

All went well until Jed’s stomach began impinging on his happiness. Setting him on some rocks to rest, we continued another 200’ up to the edge of the beautiful Hotlum Glacier. We returned to find Jed ready to head for the summit. In spite of his great spirit, Jed's mind could not fool his body. In the end, our guide wisely turned us back toward base camp. We returned in rough shape, exhausted from 12 hrs of climbing at more than 11,000’, but exhilarated by our achievements.

I’d like to extend a huge “thank-you” to the participants. They raised money and experienced what youth experience when they go into wilderness: challenge, reward, and a new sense of self. See you next year!!