Frankenstein Ice

The forecast for Saturday was for snow. Knowing this, I had decided to park in the lower parking lot the night before. I met Yani, Anna, Frank, and Justin at their Bed and Breakfast just in time for a warm blueberry muffin and a hot cup of coffee. Not a bad way to start an ice climbing day. The snow was flying and we had to brush off our cars before we drove to the cliffs. As we were getting ready to start hiking, about 20 vehicles drove right past us to the upper lot. My heart sank a little. A gentlemen and his partner rolled the window down and asked if the upper lot was full. I did not know so he decided to go check it out. Moments later 10 cars were backing down the icy snow covered road for the lower lot. I guessed the lot was full. Yani, Anna, Frank, Justin, and myself marched past the throngs of ice climbers. Our early start had paid off.

We decided to warm up on the Trestle Cut Slabs where we got two ropes set-up. One lower angle climb and one steeper pitch. After everyone had their fill of the two routes, we gave our climbs to a neighboring party that we befriended, and made snow angels, for there happened to be a few feet of fresh powder at the base of the climbs.

We were looking for something a little more challenging, but it seemed that every ounce of ice was occupied this uncharacteristically crowded day. So as we were headed to do the first pitch of Pegasus, another set of friends we had made that day offered us the line they were on. This time the climbing was a little steeper. And we even got to do a little mixed climbing on thin ice and use rock features for upward progress.

Thanks to Yani, Anna, Justin, and Frank, we had a great day ice climbing despite the crowds. It's always awesome to spend the day with good folks and swing some ice tools.

Thanks again for a great day! Enjoy the photos.

Matt Ritter MMG Guide