The Idahosummits.com spring outing for 2012 was set for May 12th on Peak 10027 in the Sawtooth Mountains. Peak 10027 was chosen as it had opportunities for all: a steep east face for skiing, steep snow climbing, etc... and a easier, yet exciting ridge for the rest of us.

We started gathering at our designated camping spot at around 4pm on Friday afternoon. It was a glorious afternoon relaxing and drinking some beer. Eventually we gathered wood, ate, then were amazed as vehicle after vehicle arrived at the camping spot. Eventually, 13 people (Steve, George, John F., Nathan, Greg, Jacob, Eric, Rodolfo, Oleg, Russ, Matt, Andrew, and myself) were gathered around the fire. That night was chilly, with the thermometer reading 19 degrees at around 7am.

In the morning we were joined by Zach, Splattski, and Bob. This was a large group, but everyone was eager and having fun. We headed to the trailhead a bit late after some gear organization.

We got within 100 yards of the summer trailhead in Cabin Creek. After more gear prep and a group photo, we were finally on our feet.

The initial trail was clear of snow, but soon we hit drifted sections. The snow was very firm and we didn't need snowshoes. We moved along on the snow, seeing the trail tread off-and-on. Eventually we left the main Cabin Creek drainage. Splattski led us on a great route to the largest of the northern Cabin Creek lakes. Here we split up a bit with Jacob, George, and John F. heading up the steep east face and Nathan skinning up another route on the east face.

Shortly after leaving the lake, we encountered a steep snow section. At the base of it, Splattski and Greg taught the newer guys about snow climbing. We zig-zagged up the slope. Now on the ridge and at 9400', we had our next objective, a fairly steep ridge to the final summit ridge. The snow on the ridge was a bit soft in places, but worked great. Some used crampons, while others just boots and an ice axe.

Eventually we were on the summit ridge. The ridge was fun, with a section of scrambling on dry rock and hard snow.

The top was amazing! Great views in all directions, 15 people, and a chance to rest after a challenging climb. We enjoyed the sun and lack of wind. After numerous group shots, it was time to head down.

Like the way up, we chose numerous different routes on the way down. Nathan skied off. Zach, Jacob, Andrew, and Matt went for McDonald Peak. George and John F. went for a steeper glissade off the east face. The rest of us headed down the south ridge and explored the basin a bit before rejoining our route into the basin. (I think I got that all right...)

It was a great peak, great snow, and great people. Thanks for coming everyone. Look forward to seeing you all this fall!

Make your way to Alturas Lake. Turn right onto Cabin Creek Road. Look for a trail indicating "Cabin Creek Trailhead", turn onto that road and follow it .25 miles to the trailhead.

We followed the trail, branching off at the north fork of Cabin Creek. We followed that basin to the largest lake. Then we aimed for the saddle between Peak 10027 and Point 9794. Once we attained the saddle, we followed the ridge to the summit.