All Images: Alex Zimmerman | Featured Skier: Alyssa Carey
Believe it or not, we’re already approaching the summer solstice on Friday, June 20. This monumental day marks the most sunlight we in the Northern Hemisphere will see this year, and as many are aware, it’s a monumental day to capitalize on this extended glow and make the most of those summer activities we love.
You might be thinking of biking, fishing or just cracking beers by the grill into the late hours of the night. Or, you might still be dreaming about sweet ski turns, and we respect your grind, dear reader. In that case, the iconic summer solstice party at Mt. Hood’s Illumination Rock is the place for you.
Here are a few tips on how to make your trek up to Illumination Rock a success, with help from local Mt. Hood photographer and skier Alex Zimmerman.
*Due to poor weather expected on Friday, the Illumination Rock Solstice Party will be on the evening of Thursday June 19*
Unsure of the gathering’s origins, skiers continue this tradition each year, with its popularity soaring in recent years. Crowds have begun to amass early in the day, making for a lively celebration that lasts into the late hours.
To start your journey, you’ll either need to follow the skin track or purchase a Timberline Lodge lift ticket. For $110, your access to the ski area will include the Palmer Lift and the public terrain park. “If people are buying tickets, I’d recommend taking Palmer up at 1:30 and walking from there,” Zimmerman told FREESKIER. He added, “If you’re skinning from the lot, save another three hours of buffer for the walk.”
It’s always a good idea to carpool and arrive early in the day, as parking availability can fill up quickly. Once you’ve ditched the car, make your way up to the main base area where you can claim your ticket and regroup inside the lodge, or begin your skin up.
Zimmerman and friends always pack the essentials on this celebratory day. “Bring lots of food, water and an extra layer or two,” he added. Yes, it’s June, but the weather can change very quickly near the upper reaches of Mt Hood as you breach 10,000 feet.
Here are a few recommended must-haves:
- Reliable ski-friendly pack with A-Frame or Diagonal carry
- Skis and boots you trust, as the snow can get crusty when skiing down late
- Plenty of water and snacks
- Headlamp
- Extra jacket
Once at the ski area, make your way to the Palmer Lift. Visible from the base with no clouds, Palmer marks the highest lift at Timberline. Spin a few laps in the public park (a must when the sun is out and the vibes are sky high) and then head to the top of the lift.
Once exiting Palmer’s top terminal, the hike up to Illumination Rock begins to the skier’s left.
The hike from Palmer Lift to Illumination Rock can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on how much Eye of the Tiger you’re listening to and how your summer conditioning has been going. Once there, make yourself at home and prepare for one of the greatest freeski spectacles around. Booters will be built and skiers will be flying. Call your drop-in and be mindful of others. Who knows, you might even see Parker White launching into near-earth orbit.
“It’s an incredible celebration, and I’m stoked so many people are finding meaning in it,” Zimmerman said excitedly. “Anticipate a ton of people, lots of smiles, hoots and hollers, big airs and good times. I’d quadruple down on the “leave no trace” thing. It’s more important now than ever to take good care of our lands. Most importantly, have a blast!”
When asked about the date for the party, Zimmerman added, “It’s 100% a go for June 19th. The weather is going to be atrocious on Friday, which also brings this point: please DO NOT hike up into the alpine in whiteout conditions. Even the most experienced climbers can become disoriented when the weather is that bad. Don’t endanger yourself or the rescue operations people. Another thing to note, be respectful of Timberline’s boundaries. Please don’t ski the groomers when coming back to the parking lot. It causes people to work more than they need.”
No matter how you celebrate, the solstice is a special time of year. We hope your trip up to Momma Hood is filled with great times and better people!
