I really enjoyed the reminder lessons here. I'm glad that all turned out as well as it did. Its good to keep fresh in one's mind how soon a situation can happen. The situation can quickly arise and it may or may not directly involve oneself.
I enjoyed reading your article. I was involved in sort of a similar situation a number of years ago. A girl we were backcountry skiing with broke her leg. We had to evacuate her to a safe spot and then needed to initiate a helicopter rescue. It was a learning experience. I think once you go through a situation like this - your backpack becomes heavier the next time you go out, because there's always some other things you wish you had. For example, I bring splints wherever I go (as well as a down jacket). Cheers.
Great report! Very well written; actually made me feel like I was there. Glad to hear that Vince came out ok thanks to your efforts and the generosity of the mountain.
Good reporting, and good work making someone else's bad day end as well as possible. Being a snow novice myself, it's always educational to read about the hazards as well as the fun. Stay safe, and enjoy!
I enjoyed your trip report... I have climbed that section many times, even turned around once in bad weather at 11,400 feet probably right where you were. Even though Avalanche Gulch does not require previous Mountaineering experience ... it should. Equipment, survival, what to do and what not to do. You guys were brilliant in your care for this guy!! Hats off to you! If you climb Mtn's long enough you WILL find yourself in a difficult situation and having the know how of escape will save your life. I have gained the majority of my experience on Shasta and on or around that route... Be prepared, know the route, your gear and be willing to turn around if you are not feeling well or don't feel safe. As other Mountaineers have said... Summiting is optional.... getting down safe is not... Climb safe and wear a helmet!!
I just stumbled on your account of the rescue and I sent a link to the John in your story. John is my climbing partner and a friend of almost thirty years. I was on the mountain with John the night before and that morning but descended due to a sinus condition. John shared this story with me and to read your account this many years later brings it right back. I am blessed to be able to say John and I have made the summit on Mt. Shasta together on several occasions. I've always been confident knowing John was on the mountain with me and your account just reafirms John's skills in action.
Aeldrin - Feb 11, 2007 8:40 pm - Voted 10/10
Great trip report!Very well written, and I greatly enjoyed reading about your thoughts during the event.
Hotfeet - Feb 22, 2007 4:45 am - Voted 10/10
An important reminder!I really enjoyed the reminder lessons here. I'm glad that all turned out as well as it did. Its good to keep fresh in one's mind how soon a situation can happen. The situation can quickly arise and it may or may not directly involve oneself.
AJones - Nov 23, 2007 5:57 pm - Voted 10/10
Good Trip ReportI enjoyed reading your article. I was involved in sort of a similar situation a number of years ago. A girl we were backcountry skiing with broke her leg. We had to evacuate her to a safe spot and then needed to initiate a helicopter rescue. It was a learning experience. I think once you go through a situation like this - your backpack becomes heavier the next time you go out, because there's always some other things you wish you had. For example, I bring splints wherever I go (as well as a down jacket). Cheers.
billisfree - Dec 22, 2007 11:48 pm - Hasn't voted
ThanksThanks for sharing!
Judd97 - Jan 29, 2008 11:20 pm - Voted 10/10
Great ReportGreat report! Very well written; actually made me feel like I was there. Glad to hear that Vince came out ok thanks to your efforts and the generosity of the mountain.
Happy trails!
edubbs - Nov 26, 2008 4:46 pm - Voted 10/10
Well doneGood reporting, and good work making someone else's bad day end as well as possible. Being a snow novice myself, it's always educational to read about the hazards as well as the fun. Stay safe, and enjoy!
bragthepeak - Mar 26, 2009 5:50 pm - Voted 8/10
Great Reporting!I enjoyed your trip report... I have climbed that section many times, even turned around once in bad weather at 11,400 feet probably right where you were. Even though Avalanche Gulch does not require previous Mountaineering experience ... it should. Equipment, survival, what to do and what not to do. You guys were brilliant in your care for this guy!! Hats off to you! If you climb Mtn's long enough you WILL find yourself in a difficult situation and having the know how of escape will save your life. I have gained the majority of my experience on Shasta and on or around that route... Be prepared, know the route, your gear and be willing to turn around if you are not feeling well or don't feel safe. As other Mountaineers have said... Summiting is optional.... getting down safe is not... Climb safe and wear a helmet!!
johnlburr - May 4, 2012 12:39 am - Hasn't voted
John is a worthy climbing partnerBrian,
I just stumbled on your account of the rescue and I sent a link to the John in your story. John is my climbing partner and a friend of almost thirty years. I was on the mountain with John the night before and that morning but descended due to a sinus condition. John shared this story with me and to read your account this many years later brings it right back. I am blessed to be able to say John and I have made the summit on Mt. Shasta together on several occasions. I've always been confident knowing John was on the mountain with me and your account just reafirms John's skills in action.
Thanks for sharing the experience.
John