Conditions in the Valhallas were excellent
this past week. All routes were in dry conditions, with crampons and ice
axe only required for about 30m on the north side on Gimli, heading in to Mulvey Basin.
Probably could have gotten away without the crampons, but was happy to have
them. Drinking water is becoming scarce below Mt Gimli, with only a few
very small snow patches remaining. Be sure to fill your water bottles the
night before while there is still some melt.
The forest fire at Enterprise Creek (between
New Denver and Slocan
City) had been brought
under control and the highway was open with alternating single lanes of traffic.
Smoke was not an issue in the Valhallas, but Nelson looked choked full.
Three sailing wait (2.5 hours) by mid-day
on the Shelter Bay ferry, heading back to Revelstoke.
Howard Street Café in Slocan
City makes a great place
for breakfast or dinner on your way in or out! J
Cheers,
Paul Norrie
ACMG
Mountain
Guide