Mount McLoughlin is the highest peak in southern Oregon, a beautiful near-symmetrical volcanic cone. Despite being the highest point in a 200-mile stretch of the Cascade Range between the Three Sisters and Mount Shasta, McLoughlin is relatively unknown and often overlooked. Although not presently glaciated, two huge glacial cirques carved into the north and northeast faces during colder epochs have exposed the very roots of the volcano's lava conduits and removed nearly all traces of the summit crater. These bowls provide over 2000 vertical feet of steep and spectacular ski terrain, easily accessed from the standard trail to the summit along the east ridge. McLoughlin makes an excellent, uncrowded day-trip, and the variety of skiable lines in the northeast bowls and also just south of the east ridge would make repeat trips well worthwhile.

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Trip Summary: Monday, June 21, 1999

This was a private trip, with a party of two (myself and Alex Cronin).
I skied on randonnee (alpine touring) gear, Alex skied on heavy-duty telemark gear.