The old logging road use by some as a shortcut to bypass the switchback on the upside of the power lines took a hit and saves distance but no time as negotiating downed trees slows progress. In the future I'll just do the switchback.
Shortcut by pauljess999, on FlickrViews from the nice overlook at the 2600' level and the 3152' point in no particular order.
WooleyHornChinidere by pauljess999, on Flickr
WestFork by pauljess999, on Flickr
BonBeaconRockColumbia by pauljess999, on Flickr
TableMtn by pauljess999, on FlickrMy snow show track crossing an open spot on the way to get on the Gorton Creek Trail from the 3152' point.
Track by pauljess999, on FlickrAt the intersection of the cutoff trail and Gorton Creek there is a spot with nice views of the Columbia and the Washington side mountains and a good look at Indian Point. I had considered doing Indian point but no one has been on that section of trail since forever (meaning no one has recently done the long Nick Eaton -> Deadwood loop). There was one track I followed but they turned back before getting to the Indian Point cutoff so I turned back also. From the looks I had at IP there is drifted snow on the narrow approach and a cornice. I had an ice ax but I felt crampons would be needed for a safe visit.
Follow the Flickr link for the hi-res version of this photo for some detail on the conditions at Indian Point.
IPnWindMtn by pauljess999, on FlickrDog Mtn and upstream Columbia R from the point near Indian Point.
Dog by pauljess999, on FlickrI'm giving myself 8 miles and ~3000' cumulative elevation gain. Nice day for a hike, very much winter up there, maybe next time the Benson Plateau from the PCT out of Herman Creek.
NickEatonMap by pauljess999, on Flickr
