Been out to a variety of areas over the
past week…………
“Louise Falls”- in great shape
with various options for the pillar(s). There are two daggers hanging over the
cave at the base of the route (on the right side ). The daggers are big and
pose a hazard to those on the approach and while gearing up. On another note
the mixed routes “Captain Hook” and “Lowe Impact” are
now doable because of these features.
“Whiteman Falls and Red Man Soars”-
Whiteman’s has a WI 4+ pitch on the left to start and ends at a nice
ledge. The second pitch traverses out to the center of the upper column and is
solid WI5 with great gear and lots of solid hooks. Redman’s is in typical
condition and is dwell protected with a few small-med. sized nuts and small –med
sized cams.
“Seven Pillars of Wisdom”- “Damocles”
is still in but the short pillars above and below the main pillar are
delaminating and X-rated in character. The first pillar can be walked around to
the left with ease but the second may be more of an issue to avoid. The lower
pitch of the last tier on “7 pillars..” has fallen off ….not
easily visible form the road.
“Lower Weeping Wall Right and
Teardrop”- “Right hand weeping wall” is in great late season
condition with limited sun effect. “Teardrop”- 70 meters of WI5 to
a couple pitches of semi rotted WI6. Good gear was to be had but took some work
to find.
Been cold in the morning up on the ice
fields parkway the last few mornings -20 to -25 at 0600. Pillar features are
under a lot of tension until the sun softens them up.
Cheers,
Rob
Owens
Ass. Alpine Guide