Drove out to the Ochocos this morning to summit Lookout Mountain and get going on the 2021 challenge. The road was clear of snow and ice all the way to the final turnoff.
Since I was driving the Disco, I opted to take the snow-covered Forest Service road further up the mountain. I got to the Baneberry trailhead, but got stuck trying to reach the Motherlode TH. Winches myself free, and carefully backed back to Baneberry and started there. As it turns out, Baneberry is really close to Motherlode anyway (~1/4 mile).
There was snow from the trailhead to the summit. I used snowshoes, though if I had started earlier, microspikes might have been adequate.
Conditions were great. A bluebird day, with a little wind at the summit.
Did not see a single soul on the trail the entire trip. No other vehicles at the trailhead.
Responses
I forgot to mention that I saw the herd of wild horses on my way driving back toward Prineville. They were hanging out blocking the entire road. I stopped and they headed uphill into the forest before I could get my camera out, but it was cool to see them nonetheless.
Did you check out the shelter near the summit?
I did! It’s in great shape, and there was some firewood available. I recorded a few video segments that I’m going to edit together and post. 😉
Whoo Hoo! Congratulations! Fun seeing someone else complete this Peak in the snow!!
Thanks Amy! I took the short route, out-and-back. I’m looking forward to doing this again when the snow (mostly) clears and the wildflowers start to pop. I want to check out the mine, too.
makes me wanna move up north!
Wow!!!! Awesome job Jeff. You were definitely the only SOLO hiker up there!!!! But WOW!!! HOW BOUT THOSE WILD HORSES!!!!! THAT IS AWESOME!!!!! I just started snow shoeing and I do love it….Started out here in Mt Pinos, CA. Always awesome seeing your posts. Thanks for sharing your adventures!!!!