[MCR] Storm Creek Ice, Kootenay National Park

Nice climbing conditions in Storm Creek today.  'The Shocking Alternative' is in good shape with ice anchors/rappels, a bit stiffer than some others of its grade.  No rock gear used but some short screws were useful.

 

The approach is up the recent fireguard from the highway, left on a fire road near the top to join Storm creek, then bushwhack up the creek into the basin.  2.5-3hrs to the base of the routes.  Gaiters useful.

 

A little more snow than in Stanley Creek (15-30cm) but still little or no avy hazard on the routes at this time.  We did see some good sluffing high on the headwall with a snow squall late in the day, and evidence of a large old slab avalanche on a high N aspect.  Seems like higher elevations are approaching critical depth for avalanche hazard in this valley.

 

Cheers, Conrad Janzen
IFMGA Mountain Guide
http://www.flickr.com/photos/conradjanzenphotos

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