Climbing up the 40-degree Old Chute couloir on the way to Mount Hood’s summit. The chute is about 7 feet wide, with gorgeous rime ice covering the surrounding rocks. Popcorn clouds backlit by the early morning sun lead the way. Climbing solo, I navigated this section with two ice tools in my hands and crampons on my feet. June 14, 2010.

The early morning sun projects a massive shadow of Mount Hood on the surrounding land and clouds, as seen from about 10,000 feet. June 14, 2010.