Went up Cooper Peak today from Ashcroft with Arthurpsiderman. Snow was continuous from 1/2 mile from the trailhead to the top. The snow was so supportive in the morning we were able to make it to the top in trailrunners.
We followed the road to Leahy Cabin at which point we followed Cooper Creek to the flanks of Cooper. There was maybe .5 miles of unpleasant bushwalking but the creek opened up and made for very easy travel. If the creek thawed it could be much worse.
Above tree line it was an easy push to the summit, we followed a rocky rib up most of the steeps. On the rib and summit the wind was insane, maybe 50 mph sustained, some of the worst I have felt this year. Additionally, the forecasts predicted it would get worse throughout the day.We had hoped to hit Star and Taylor but with how much ridge travel that would require we thought better. There is likely wind loading on North/East aspects.
We descended the steep north west face. A fun and fairly aesthetic line. The ski down was pretty easy and fun! Only 4 hours round trip, a fun one from the Ashcroft area. First condition report!!!
      
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