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A friend and I were thinking about trying Shasta this fall (like late sept-oct), but I'm worried there may not be that much snow. Am I right, or is there a possibility that there will be some left since its been a bumper year in terms of snow?

Thanks for the suggestion! We may scrap the idea if it's going to mostly be scree scrambling. When will there be significant snowpack again? Probably have to wait until spring?

Clear Creek is a popular destination but not my first recommendation in the late summer/fall. I think it's popularity lies in the relative lack of technical difficulty. It's a great climb (and better ski descent!) in May and early June, but as far as a climbing route, most will find the rock and scree tedious late in the season.

The glaciers on Mt. Shasta can be in prime condition in September and later in a good snow year like this. The Hotlum Glacier will be fabulous for a snow and ice climb with big cracks and ice falls to explore. The less technical south and west side routes will be mostly rock and scree, but the glaciers should be in great shape, maybe more ice and old snow, but still spectacular. Weather can be a factor with short days and the possibility of early snow storms. The Hotlum/Bolam ridge can be pretty decent as well, but may get pretty icy in some exposed areas at that time, although it's easier to avoid the crevasses on this route.

Don't rule out a fall climb yet, with the way the snowfall has been this season, it could be awesome!

An Underhill from Berkeley, any relation to the climbing pioneer?

Hmm, very interesting. Exploring the glaciers sounds fun! We'll definitely consider that when we make our decisions, thank you!

I wish I were related to that Underhill, but when I made the account, I chose it as a nod to Tolkein (all the travel songs, etc, in his books are great and make me all wanderlusty).

You never know how much snow may remain over the summer. Sometimes, and I expect it this year as well, there is still enough snow spots left aside on the standard route to enjoy the climb. Otherwise the North Gate approach would guarantee more snow due to glaciers. However, it may be partially or even completely icy that late in the season, but at least before you get to that point you may enjoy a very beautiful trail

When the time comes, check the conditions again.