It is tragically sad that these men are likely deceased. Attempting to climb Mount Hood is a serious endeavor during any season of the year. In my estimation, a "minimalist / lightweight gear" trip to the summit is a huge challenge during the summer, I can't envision it during the winter. They didn't stand a chance once temperatures dipped and water / food / fuel ran low.
~ Blue Jays ~
If they were "very experienced climbers" as I have heard, I wonder where they did their climbing at?