After multiple Explorers Club Mt. Baker outings had to be cancelled due to crazy mountain weather this winter, including our originally scheduled visit, we found the right day on Sunday. It was cloudy and in the 30s with little wind as we unloaded from the bus and geared up for a day on the snow.
Speaking of the snow, it was nice and stable where we planned to dig, thanks to calm, somewhat dry weather the few days preceding our outing. This is a key element to which we pay attention when planning to venture into the back country where avalanches are a prime concern. So, our opening circle focused on avalanches — what they are, how they’re triggered, what to watch for. Our location for the day was not on an avalanche-prone slope; ask your Explorer what slope range is of concern for slides.
Off to learn about snow caves by attempting to dig one! The initial excitement and energy — it’s fun to dig in the snow — faded just a bit as the realization set in that it’s a lot of work when done properly. Fortunately, we had plenty of tools (thanks for providing so many shovels). In fact, before long, 4 caves were in various stages of development. Feel free to ask your boy about design elements of an effective snow cave — here’s a cheat sheet for you.
Eventually, two of the caves morphed into a tunnel, so at the end of the project, we had two caves and a tunnel, evidence of all the work and focus the Cave Dwellers brought to their project. Oh, and Cave Dwellers taking a break from digging could be seen configuring a sledding hill nearby.
Which is where we turned our attention as we got into the afternoon. Impromptu “Olympic” style events, with shovels and a sit pad (or nothing at all) as sleds, were quickly organized and executed. This sort of free, unstructured play, with rules and competitors put together on the fly, is very beneficial and occurs often and easily in natural settings. I’m reminded of the Explorers Club motto - Lose your mind and come to your senses.
Throughout, the Cave Dwellers were focused, diligent and considerate or their peers and mentors. I’ve said this before but it bears repeating; this group has coalesced over the past 12-18 months into the type of cohort we strive for in Explorers Club. I look forward to their camaraderie and engagement at each outing.
We have more photos for you. After outings on back to back weekends, and snow work/play at two of the last three, we need to wait for our final outing of the year. On Sunday, May 20, we’ll marvel at the old growth forest near mile marker 44 on the Mount Baker Highway. See you then.
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