Yesterday we climbed Mt Ball via the SE Ridge and snow slopes
from Shadow Lake. This route is mostly 4th class, a few short sections of low
5th class, moderate angled snow climbing and a little glacier travel. The route
is in good condition, worth doing and a much more pleasant way to the
summit then the approaches from the #93 highway side. A big day with 10K of
hiking to the base and 4800 vertical from Shadow Lake.
Bike/hike to Shadow lake, just before the trail goes up to
Ball Pass go north through trees to access the large east and south facing
glaciated cirque on Mt Ball. Heading for the obvious col on the right scramble
up to the base of the SE ridge. Climb the ridge, mostly 4th class on ok rock,
the grey band and the black band's being the crux's, short lived low 5th class
climbing. From top of ridge continue to summit via low angled summit glacier
cap.
Alterative route, from the base of the black band move around
to the climbers left of the SE ridge and ascend a 35 degree snow slope and then
a 35 degree snow couloir to the summit of the SE ridge. Continue to summit
via low angled summit glacier cap.
Decent - ether route can be reversed depending on conditions.
Left hand sky line in photo is the SE Ridge.
Cheers.
Mark Stewart
