SCOTTISH LAKES HIGH CAMP - Fri-Sun, March 28-30

(Trip is now filled. A wait list has been established.)

Picture it; you’re in a pristine setting at 5,000 feet just east of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area in Washington's Central Cascades. Where I’m talking about is Scottish Lakes High Camp in the Chiwaukum Mountains. The only access is via an 8-mile private road, using 4-wheel drive vehicles in the fall and snowcats and snowmobiles during the winter.

WINTER SKIING
High Camp sits at the hub of an elaborate 24 mile network of ski trails. These highly scenic trails offer a great variety of beginning, intermediate and advanced terrain, including off-trail slopes for learning to telemark. Creating loop trips of differing lengths and ability levels is easy! Color, topographical maps of their trail system are provided to all guests. The trails vary in length from 2-11 miles.

Advanced downhill skiers can either tackle the all-day tour into the High Meadows with a maximum elevation of 7,300 feet, or enjoy the very popular half-day loop trip down through the open glades of McCue Ridge.

Skiing down to the parking lot at the end of a visit is another popular pastime at High Camp. Three different routes down the mountain work well for skiers of all ability levels. Of course, skiers who wish to ride down the mountain in one of their snowcats always have that option.

OTHER WINTER SPORTS
Snowshoeing is becoming an increasingly popular activity at High Camp. The numerous scenic vistas in the region make great destinations for winter hikes on snowshoes. Points not easily accessible on skis often become attainable on snowshoes. Twelve pairs of snowshoes in various sizes are available to guests at no extra cost.

Backcountry snowboarding is another winter activity that has greatly grown in popularity in recent years. Slopes imme-diately around High Camp range from gentle to challenging. Serious snowboarders frequently head for thesteep slopes in the wilderness area. Snowboards are also available to guests at no extra cost.

High Camp is a collection of nine cabins, a small lodge and other buildings clustered together in a secluded valley.

The cabins vary in size, with a range of 2-8 persons and are very basic. Typically the cabins are one room, although many have lofts. Each cabin is equipped with a wood stove, bright propane lanterns, propane cooking stove, all necessary dishes and cookware and a table and chairs. Mattresses and pillows are provided in all cabins, with each of the couple’s cabins having full bedding. In addition to the cabins, High Camp offers many other amenities. A small day lodge always has a warm ?re and complimentary hot drinks. Directly across from the lodge, a new building houses a cedar wood-?red sauna, backcountry shower and two modern composting toilets. On the hill behind this building sits an outdoor wood-?red hot tub. Their website is: www.scottishlakes.com.

Number of spaces reserved (and now filled): 36

Cost: $240 per person (Lodging, transportation, and tax. Have a rebate if you walk vs ride.) $100.00 per person deposit due immediately at sign-up. Balance of $140 is due at the time of the January Ski Buddies potluck.

Please contact Elaine and Lisa.