This is the long, jagged ridge connecting Thatchtop to Powell Peak. This ridge traverse starts out easy but becomes very exposed for a hundred meters or so. Steep on the northwest side and near vertical on the southeast side, make for some interesting class 4 and 5 slab and crack climbing in a spectacular, remote alpine setting. The position and length of ridge here are hard to beat.
Location
Rocky Mountain National Park Start by hiking/bushwacking to the summit of Thatchtop Mountain at 12,668', head west from the summit toward the ridge and the continental divide. Powell Peak is on the other side of this ridge. To descend from the summit of Powell Peak, follow the divide north (for approx. 2 miles) to Andrews Glacier and descend back to Bear Lake or Glacier Gorge TH. This is a long Grade II outting, 12 hours for us as we bagged Taylor Peak for good measure under ideal conditions. Expect epic under adverse conditions.
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By Ernie Port From: Boulder, Colorado Aug 19, 2007
We did this 8/11/07 under perfect, dry conditions. We did not bring a rope, but there were a couple sections where being roped up would be recommended, especially under wet conditions. I recommend staying as close to the ridge line as possible, yet going down and around the giant rock tower half way up the ridge. The crux area for us were the upper slabs, where we found good edges and cracks, and where the route finding got interesting. One of the very best mountain ridge link ups I've ever done in the park! I hope to do this one again!
By Jared Workman From: Boulder Sep 12, 2007 rating: 5.2 R
Good route, I did it today. I definitely came across harder than 4th class but wasn't trying to keep it at its easiest. Be prepared for lower fifth class stuff which, coupled with the exposure might not make this the best intro 4th class ridge for newer scramblers.
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