Saturday, October 13, 2012

South Sister with Shane, Drake, & Nico

Climbing South Sister is a popular activity in Central Oregon...in the summer. Attempting a summit bid of the 10,358 foot peak in fall is less popular with weather that is less predictable.

Shane & Drake really wanted to give it a shot. We disembarked from Devil's Lake Trailhead and began the 4,900 foot, 5.5 mile climb to the summit.
Trailhead optimism
Our first goal was to get to Moraine Lake. With kids under 12 it's crucial to have the short term goals on a hike. We worked toward reaching each plateau, the next cliff, the knoll. They stay interested and excited.
The boys above Moraine Lake with Broken Top in the background
Comfy in the shelter @ Moraine Lake
The next morning with were greeted with a fall dusting of snow atop South Sister.
The frosty cupcake
We headed up for a day hike summit
The weather, particularly the wind was crazy. While we couldn't summit due to zero visibility and high winds, we did get to a 9,000 foot unnamed peak above Lewis Glacier. I am so proud of the boys for the great hike and adventure we shared.

See the short film of the trip: