Sudden tragedy: 75 years ago, a massive avalanche on Mount Baker killed six WWU climbers

The weather on Mount Baker was warm and clear 75 years ago, much like the recent glorious sunshine that has bathed Whatcom County.

It was July 22, 1939, a Saturday.

Early that morning, before dawn, 25 members of a climbing party roused themselves at Kulshan Cabin and began their long, slow walk toward the summit. They all had climbing experience, some more than others. Their guides, Chet Ullin and Don Coss, led the way.