the col at the base of the E ridge in the early morning cold (05:30).
Put crampons on again to cross the snow coulior on top of the lower
ridge. On the level shoulder traverse possible to kick steps across
several snow slopes. Crux step of the steep upper ridge is dry and snow
can be mostly avoided by playing the left side of the ridge. At about
10,500' we put crampons on. Hard work traversing the summits with
sometimes supportive and sometimes breakable crust. Best to rap the
shale step on the NW ridge right now as snow and ice complicate turning
it (if I had it to do over ...). Took crampons off at 10,560' and
scramble down to the meadows to change to running shoes for the long
walk out. One more week of summer weather should have the route in top
drawer shape.
Happy trails
Barry Blanchard, Mountain Guide
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These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field.
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