Mount Thielsen // The Lightning Rod of the Cascades

This mountain was nowhere on my radar. I had never heard of it until Ben sent me a text asking if I’d be interested in coming out to Oregon and skiing its dramatic slopes. I can now say that Mount Thielsen offers a lot in a small package. There’s several entertaining lines to ski, a small scramble to the summit and a prominent viewpoint. We skied 3 lines and each line had its own pleasant vibe. The day before climbing Thielsen, we attempted to ski Mount Diamond but were driven back by the wind, visibility and bullet proof surface conditions. We were concerned that the conditions would be the same on Mount Thielsen.
On Mount Thielsen’s Wikipedia page we are told that all the ski slopes are rated black diamond. So that’s cool. The mountain is also referred to as Big Cowhorn. However, I prefer the more electrifying title The Lightning Rod of the Cascades. You can tell I enjoy the name because I repeat it several times in the video. The internet claims that Mount Thielsen is struck by lightning more often than any other mountain in the range. There’s even a type of mineral? Or rock? that appears when lightning strikes it's summit.

[philhurst]

It is a wise man who knows when to say enough. Looks like a fun day.

[drewwatts]

As someone that has climbed this beast, that summit block is not for the faint of heart. Respect to Ben for knowing when to call it

[sìmonmìamishreds]

Most underrated channel on youtube. Keep it up Danny!!

[TheOreamnos]

Nice to see such chill and casual treatment of someone knowing when something is more than someone is up to doing. It's a common topic of discussion with my mountaineering students, and I wish everyone were so cool with knowing when to say "when".

[tkmjees]

Good job Ben for calling it a day. These guys often make it look too easy and it can be tricky to stay within your limits if you join the crew.

[SpAm-AcCoUnT]

Dude, I love this mountain so fucking much. It looks like a snaggletoothed hell-spike from every angle, yet it’s actually a really pleasant ascent and ski down, with a super consistent grade, the ability to ski all the way back to the car, excellent views, and a reasonably short distance. Best of both worlds. Look like a hero, feel relaxed and psyched.

[pagewhite]

Nice to “meet” you Ben, I hope we’ll see you again. Great video Danny!

[juand]

Hey Ben is who I'm trying to be! Lol I'm at my fifth season but probably have about 1/3 of his days. I appreciate the inspiration!

That scramble looked more like a 5.4 solo. I would've bailed too!

[jacklhota]

Nice video Danny! Ben is a nice addition. Keep it up!

[nicolasbertin]

I was in Crater Lake just last year, it was my 5th trip to the US, and that park is one of the best views I've had in my life... It rivals the Grand Canyon to be honest, just the sheer size and blueness of the lake left me in awe, stayed there for 3 days, did all the day hikes possible, and wasn't tired at all of the view.

[Dorkus_]

congrats on 100k subs! I watch every episode, so I am glad to see your channel grow!!

[virob]

Love from the UK. Man the states has it all!

[kenwbrenner]

Great job as always Danny.
I'm an avid hiker, but because of your great videos, I get to be more through your efforts.
I must admit I've said a quick prayer for you from time to time.
Pray you will always be protected and safe.

[jwhoward]

Great to see a trip into my old stomping grounds. Thank you for a great video Danny! And we know your wife cares.

[sjldfilms]

Ben you are a beast!! Danny love your content, always.

[soysauce]

Dang, you guys were right up in my backyard. I did Diamond Peak the same day you guys did Thielsen. I loved the Thielsen climb, glad you guys came out this way!

[jtcollins]

Another great MA outing. Well done boys!

[maxscriptguru]

Glad you chose sanity and took off your skis and put on your crampons for the final snow climb. Great video. Loved it.

[SeniorTurner]

I was just at crescent lake enjoying the view of diamond peak. Glad you are in our area getting after it!! Cheers from Bend, OR

[BreakOutOfTheAlgorithm]

I am always here for the inspiration and hope! Y'all are the most inspiring mountaineers I know. Thank you so much for bringing us along on your adventures! 👁️🙏👁️