Big Snow Mountain (OVERNIGHT, moderate pace, good snow travel skills)

Big Snow Mountain lies in the Middle Fork Snoqualmie area. There are two main approaches to this mountain (via Dingford Creek or Hardscrabble). We will take the approach that starts from Dingford Creek. This will be my first overnight trip of the year. Yes, this trip can be done in a long day, but have a few reasons for wanting to do it as an overnight: It will be a good overnight trip to start the year with, allowing us to assess our conditioning, gear, and make adjustments as necessary for future trips. There could also be several challenges that add to the difficulty and time spent including bushwhacking, creek crossings, route finding, and the dreaded road getting to the trailhead. In other words, dividing up the trip in two days would help ensure success. It would also be nice to start on the section above Big Snow Lake as early as possible to have ideal snow conditions for the ascent.

I'm looking for about 3-4 knowledgeable and skilled people that want to join me, and can help route find. Expect travel on steep, varied, and exposed terrain in a variety of snow conditions (including with potential snow and rock hazards). All participants should be comfortable with these types of conditions . Good situational awareness, snow travel skills, and teamwork are essential to have a fun and safe outing while avoiding hazards. IF YOU RSVP, YOU WILL INITIALLY BE WAITLISTED. PLEASE ANSWER THE QUESTIONS, WHEN PROMPTED. I WILL ADD PEOPLE WHO ARE WITH APPROPRIATE SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND GEAR.

Stats:
Distance: 14+ miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 5000+ feet
Highest Point: 6,882 feet

Trip Reports:
https://www.nwhikers.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=7966967
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report.2017-07-03.6620194902
GPS Link:
https://www.peakbagger.com/climber/ascent.aspx?aid=961912

The Plan (subject to change):
Saturday
9 AM Meet at the Park and Ride and arrange carpools. Let's plan to depart by 9:15. We should arrive at the trailhead by 11 AM

Our hike to camp spot should take 4-6 hours, depending on where we decide to camp. Myrtle Lake or Big Snow Lake would be our best options for camping. Expect to potentially be camping on snow.

Sunday
Time T.B.D. Start our climb. It should take 3-4 hours from camp to summit, but expect it could take longer.

Depending on the group pace we should arrive at the summit by late morning . Plan to spend about a half-hour at the summit.

We will head down, take a short break, break camp, and hike out.

4-6 PM Arrive back at the trailhead.

What to bring:

Pack, warm clothing layers (expect any and all conditions), hiking or mountaineering boots, crampons, snowshoes, hiking poles, ice ax, helmet, navigation: map, compass, and GPS if you have it, emergency bivy, food for overnight trip and water (2-3 liters minimum), sun protection, headlamp, Sit pad, 10 essentials not already mentioned. Overnight gear including tent/bivy, cooking provisions, sleeping pad and bag, and other overnight provisions. PLEASE BRING AN IN-REACH OR OTHER PLB (PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACON) IF YOU HAVE ONE. IF NOT, I RECOMMEND YOU GET ONE FOR PERSONAL AND GROUP SAFETY. Drivers should have directions and NW forest pass or equivalent. We may not need all this equipment, but better to have it.
Everyone bring good cheer!

Trailhead Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4q8bLbP9M2VRvvGb8