EISPIRATEN

I'm a glutton for punishment. This was a repeat performance, a route I thought I wouldn't do again. But 'twas a beautiful day -- we timed our hike to hit the ridge right at dawn. Didn't see any sheep, though...

And, interestingly, we didn't see anyone until 1/4 mile from the saddle. From then on, however, it was a conga line of post-Thanksgiving, Guilty Overeaters!

Where exactly do you begin the ascent of Short-Cut Ridge?

After you pass the Rocks beyond the wilderness sign, the trail turns towards Telegraph Peak. At the bend -- if you look to your right -- you will see a faint use trail heading very steeply up to the ridge. It is left of the gully...

Harumph. Just came down that not long ago, but further east.

I've been up (and down) that in winter, but not when it's dry. I'm guessing it's really loose?

Dave G wrote:I've been up (and down) that in winter, but not when it's dry. I'm guessing it's really loose?

Pretty loose. Better rock in the waterfalls area, if you rapp down them.

Yeah, some class 3 rock, class 4 scree.

Well, the consequences of, you know...How many handholds remove themselves from solid looking rock under low load?

An ice ax is useful even when bare!