Mazamas — For the Love of Mountains
Activity Notes
Carpool
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Xk7Iq8PjKNU8fAHAfQg4Ux9OW-mmCB1EPD7jnoLp02I/edit#gid=0
Saddle Mountain. Leaders: Saachi Murthy
Date: 3/14/2020. Location: Oregon Coastal Range
Mileage /Gain: 4.5mi, 1751’ gain
We’ll carpool from the Sunset Transit Center Park & Ride (Google Maps pin) planning to depart at 7:30am. Please arrive a few minutes early to sign-in.
Directions ( to 45°57'46.4"N 123°41'24.0"W) GPS Track (Saddle_mountain.gpx)
From Portland, take Highway 26 west for 60 miles, and turn north (Right turn) just before milepost 10 onto Saddle Mountain Road. Go 7 miles on this paved, but bumpy road where it ends at the trailhead. Carpooling is strongly encourage; safer, cheaper & more fun. Please work out a fair donation to your driver for gas/mileage.
Terrain & Weather
The highest point in northwest Oregon, this saddle-shaped peak commands a panorama from the ocean to Mount St. Helens.. This hike is very popular during spring and early summer for the wildflowers on display. The trail can be rather slick in parts. Chickenwire is used in places to hold the topsoil from erosion at sections and footing can be less than sure. Trekking poles may be recommended if you have them. Some sections have slight exposure so always maintain a body’s length atleast away from any ledge. Trekking poles may be recommended if you have them.
Conditions can change rather rapidly so make sure to layers up and bring your wet weather gear and a change of clothes and comfortable shoes for the drive home.
Skills Practice
We will practice our knots on the hike. Bring your helmet, harness & gear as we may practice some rappelling if conditions permit. See gear list below.
Gear Checklist
Clothing:
synthetic/wool clothing - no cotton!<br> extra cold weather layers<br> rainshell & rainpants<br> warm hat or balaclava<br> gloves or mittens<br> boots, lug-soled (waterproof recommended)<br> hat with brim (for rain or sun)<br> Handwarmers
10 Essentials: (bring as many as you have)
emergency whistle<br> topo map & compass<br> headlamp or flashlight (check batteries)<br> matches / firestarter<br> sunglasses (for looking really cool)<br> sunscreen & lip-protection<br> pocket knife<br> first aid kit<br> Your favorite energy bars for extra nutrition
Leave in the Car:
change of clothes & comfy shoes for ride home
Climbing Gear:
Harness<br> Helmet<br> Belay device<br> Autoblock (or cordage if you haven’t gotten it cut yet)<br> Personal protection leash or 4 ft nylon runner.<br> One large locking carabiner<br> Two locking carabiners
Hiking Gear:
Atleast a 30L pack to carry all this stuff.
Food & Water:
lunch & snacks for yourself<br> water bottles or platypus (carry 2 liters+)<br> group treats (optional)
Optional:
liner socks<br> gaiters<br> handkerchief<br> trekking poles<br> microspikes<br> rain poncho or pack cover<br> ensolite sitpad<br> thermos with hot beverage<br> electronics (camera / GPS / cellphone)<br> extra water for weight training?
Hazards
Stay atleast a body length away from any ledge.
Mazama Rules
In case of accident, illness or other incapacity, a participant must pay for his/her own medical and/or evacuation expenses, whether or not he/she has specifically authorized them. All Mazama members have rescue insurance.<br> Pets, weapons, alcoholic beverages and radios (other than ham radio transmitters, two-way radios or weather radios) are not permitted on activities.<br> No one will be permitted on an activity who has taken or used substances (including medication) which impairs performance or judgment.<br> All participants shall carry out everything they carry in.
