Temptation Peak
by Chris Tomsen, Scree 5/92

4-5 April.   Joe Kurtak, Chris Tomsen, Trisha Herminghaus, and Eric Teela skied up the right hand side of Ship Creek from the dam, had lunch at the lower Snowhawk Hut, and reached the Upper Snowhawk Hut well before sunset, about 4-1/2 hours.  That evenings highlight was strawberry slush daiquiris courtesy of Eric and a super sticky tapioca pudding which I made and the others refused to share!  The next morning we skied in sun up the valley, and then began a slow series of tr___ up Temptation on our skis and climbing skins.  We cached our skis and poles and continued kick-stepping (carrying ice axes) up to the top, climbing to a large Dall sheep ram perched atop the peak itself.  After group photos at the top and basking in the sun a while, we rapidly descended, Joe and Trisha carving fine telemark turns and Eric and I tumbling occasionally.  The trip back was also in Sun, with sighting of a coyote, numerous ptarmigan, and some grouse.  Joe has offered to take some hikers in this summer; if any of you desire o either work on the trail or on the huts let Joe or myself know and we'll schedule a date to hike in!