"I would probably recommend this trip to a friend."
Dan and I had planned a longer trip, but Dan's work schedule bit into it so we went on a basic overnighter.
We left from Cooper Spur ski area (4200 ft.) around 10:00 and instead of following the normal trail that goes up the drainage we went over to our left (south) and followed the crest of the ridge above Polallie Canyon. We kept to the the rim of the canyon all day, keeping in to our left. Although this is not a marked trail it's obvious that some limbs have been cut and blowdown moved along this route.
Due to the rather heavy forest of Whitebark pine and hemlock there are few views of Mt. Hood itself along this trail, but there are views of Mt. Adams and other Washington snowcaps.
The snowpack was verylight and along the windblown areas we were walking on bare frozen ground in several areas. We carried only snow stakes so we had to find a fairly level area with enough snow. After 2-3 hours we were at around 5200 feet and we found a nice stairstepped level spot near the trail and set up our camp. The day was calm and clear and about 26 degrees. Very nice!
I took a day hike ahead up the ridge but I'd messed around too long and had to turn back before breaking out of the trees completely. Polallie Canyon becomes quite deep and steep at that point. I took some photos (as yet undeveloped but will post on my Web page soon) and turned back arriving in camp at dusk.
The night was quite silent and calm. It didn't get below 20 degrees and the morning was calm, clear and golden. I've changed my email address due to poor service with my old freemail.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions.