Mount Adams South Climb — Saturday, Mar. 10, 2018

I parked 8 miles down from the South climb trail head and snowshoed up to make base camp at the trail head. I got a late start and found a place to setup at 9 P.M.  I snowshoed the first 2 miles and then began hitting steep icy conditions. I put my crampons on and continued up to Lunch Counter. The next 3 miles were steep and icy. I was having to catch my breath every 2-3 steps repeatedly. The weather was very clear and motivating to push up to the summit. It took 9 hours to reach the summit. The way down was very slow and icy. There was no opportunity for glissading due to ice. Going down to Lunch Counter took about 3 hours and felt never ending. I got back to base camp at 10 P.M. absolutely exhausted. I snowshoed out the next morning. This was insanely difficult. I have been training for two years and had the confidence that I could do this. But I wouldn't recommend this to anyone who isn't sure they are capable. Be safe out there.