Mt. Jefferson via Caps Ridge

1.0 Overview

The Ridge of the Caps on the west side of Mt Jefferson (5,712) provides a challenging as spectacular ascent starting from the highest trailhead in the Presidential Range. The Caps Ridge Trail starts at Jefferson Notch on the Jefferson Notch Road, rises quickly from the forest to treeline, and then ascends the rocky and castellated Ridge of the Caps to the summit of Mt. Jefferson. Numerous trails from the summit area lead to other interesting destinations such as Edmands Col, Monticello Lawn, and even Mt. Clay.

2.0 Concept

2.1 Description

We will climb the Caps Ridge Trail from Jefferson Notch to the junction with the Cornice Trail at the base of the summit cone. At this point, depending on weather and party strength, we will decide to go straight to the summit, loop north to Edmands Col and then to the summit, or loop south to Monticello Lawn and then to the summit. If the party is very strong, we could attempt Mt. Clay.

Since this will be a fairly long day, we will start early and have breakfast at Mcdonalds or someplace enroute. We will also eat on the return trip.

2.2 Schedule of Events

0600 -- Meet at OHP. Be on time!
0615 -- Roll (we need to be prompt here, people...) Breakfast enroute.
0930 -- Arrive Jefferson Notch (trailhead)
0945 -- Start Caps Ridge Trail
1200 -- Arrive Cornice-Caps junction. Decide on loop.
1400 -- After loop, arrive back at Cornice-Caps junction.
1600 -- Arrive Jefferson Notch.
1630 -- Roll. Dinner enroute.
2000 -- Arrive Hanover.

2.3 Expected Conditions and Difficulty

Caps Ridge is a strenuous and challenging route above treeline. The trail requires some rock scrambling but no technical climbing.

Since we will be above treeline most of the trip, it is important to be prepared for severe weather, including the possibility of wind, cold, and rain. On the other hand, it could be lovely.

There is no water above treeline.

Book time for the Caps Ridge trail direct to Mt. Jefferson is 2:40 to cover 2.5 mi. Adding one of the planned loops will easily add an hour.

2.4 Special Requirements

None. This outing is open to all scouts, scouters, and parents who feel prepared.

3.0 Administration and Logistics

3.1 Announcement Date: 9 May 2001

3.2 Roster Closing Date: 20 Jun 2001

3.3 Costs

  • We WILL be stopping at a McDonalds for breakfast and dinner.
  • WMNF day use passes are $7 per vehicle.

    3.4 Equipment

    3.4.1 Individual Equipment

  • Bring standard gear for above treeline hiking. See the equipment list for more information.
  • Seat harness and personal tie-in might be useful for those who have them.
  • Bring plenty of water; there is none available above treeline.
  • Lunch.

    3.4.2 Patrol Equipment

    None

    3.4.3 Troop Equipment

  • First Aid Kit
  • Mountaineering emergency gear

    3.5 Transportation Plan

    Drop-off Point: Old Hospital Parking Lot (OHP)
    Drop-off Time: 5:30 AM
    Pickup Point: Scouts will be delivered home, unless otherwise notified
    Pickup Time: ˜8:30 PM

    4.0 Leadership

    4.1 Planning Committee

    Carl

    4.2 Adult Leaders

  • SMIC: Yorke Brown
  • Bill Scavone

    Approved YJB 20Jun01

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