[MCR] Louise Falls

Subject: [MCR] Louise Falls
Date: Fri, 16 Jan 2009 18:13:52 -0700

Spooky experience on Louise Falls today. We were first up on the pillar and at 3/4's height when it cracked horizontally just below my tools. It gave a mighty crack, settled a little and the fracture line ripped across in both directions triggering a dagger 15 meters to my left at the same level. The dagger was approximately one meter plus in diameter and just missed a climber on the pitch below.

There were three parties below. The leader just below me scrambled to a tree on the far left, another party just beginning, and one waiting. The party on the ground, watching me, claims they could see the crack from the ground. All three parties bailed and went home.

Other than that, the middle line was dry and brittle and the lines left and right were wet. The temp was minus 5.

We still haven't succeeded in eliminating all the looming daggers (ie. last weeks report of the right side going) but they seem to be coming down with very little persuasion. Heads up and aim for the trees.

Sharon Wood
ACMG Alpine Guide






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