Starting at the lodge next to the main parking lot, travel just to the right of the small snow park which will lead you up the mountain. Depending on your ability level you might want to wait for others to make the first tracks as this will make it easier to find your way and less tiring. We did not wait and trail blazed until we found a nice place to set up shop. We tried out a new shovel, dug a man hole, and pretended we were in a survival situation. The cave/hole was surprisingly warm and quiet. We had lunch here out of the snow and wind. Actually pretty easy to make with a shovel. Very important when avalanche is a possibility. This was an easy location to find, not completely isolated, but the further you go, the fewer people you will run into. Don't forget to bring your pass or cash for entry into the park. Also, they often require 4 wheel drive and chains in your car in the winter. If you forget chains, there is a nice lodge you can pick some up before you enter. December 2012.
