Volcano Express, Burton Butte 02.26.11

Smiles were in abundance as 35 skiers from the GPNSC and SONC toured the Volcano Express around Burton Butte. Thanks to intrepid trail-breaking by an early arriving SONC crew and GPS skills of our SONC tour leader, all the skiers enjoyed a wonderful outing. The snow conditions were excellent with the foot of new powder making the downhill run through the trees maneuverable and fun for all. About 3/4 of the skiers went up to the meadow near the top of Burton Butte and had a sunny lunch with views of Mt Shasta, Mountain Lakes Wilderness and Buck Lake.

McLoughlin Trail 02.23.11

Ten skiers from the SONC and GPNSC skied the McLoughlin Trail in excellent conditions. With a firm base and 6 inches of new snow the crew had a great time heading up the Canal Trail and then down McLoughlin through the old growth. A highlight of the tour occurred on the McLoughlin Trail about halfway to the Summit Shelter. In the midst of chatting about seeing wildlife in the backcountry and remarking on the profusion of fresh rabbit tracks, we saw two rabbits: a big one and a little one.

Then we spied a weasel chasing the smaller rabbit round and round, The big rabbit tried to lead the weasel away, but the chase continued even as we reluctantly decided to ski on. What a true life adventure. Next, we were happily greeted at the shelter by Ranger Paul, who had already warmed the place up with a fire in the wood stove. What a lucky day!