Snow training, cabin fever on Mount Baker

Dispatch from Dan Solmon — July 10, 1997

Dan ascends a rope with the help of a prussik knot

On the 5th of July, I arrived at NOLS PNW with the rest of the group. I was glad to have finally commenced a new phase of the expedition, as Astoria was a most boring city in which to live and train. At NOLS, everyone I have met has been a great person, especially my guides, Del Smith and Judd Rogers. They are both intelligent and funny. I am looking forward to spending the next month with them.

With our new gear and basic knowledge, we went to nearby Mount Baker to learn snow and glacier techniques. We arrived at the same time as a summer storm, so we were tentbound for the entire trip, save the last morning. During the long second day, we all got a taste of cabin fever, minus the mercury fumes. Although we only had a 45-minute course on snow techniques, I felt the tent time was also a worthwhile experience. We all learned a bit about our boundaries, and the craziness that resides beyond them. I just hope we never have a stretch of tentbound days. Counting rip-stop squares does not sound appealing.

After returning from the trip, we spent the 10th of July packing gear; everything has to be ready for our departure on the 11th.

The real travel starts soon ...