East Ridge  4th

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Type:  Trad, Alpine, Grade II Consensus:  4th [details] FA:  Aug. 23, 1934 by Ernest Scheef & Heinz Recker Season:  All -- snow-free by Aug Submitted By:  Robert Henderson on Apr 26, 2009 You & This Route  |  Other Opinions (5) Your todo list: Your stars: Your rating: -none- [change] Your ticklist: [add new tick]

Bill Rosqvist on the knife edge.

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Description 

From Timberline Lk the whole route is visible. Hike over to the gully that descends south from the eastern toe of the east ridge. The gully is nasty so, after ascending it for 100' or so, exit left on ledges to a gentle bench as per the east face route. From there, one can climb directly to the East Ridge on slabs west of the gully. When the East Ridge is reached, turn left (west) and follow the crest of the ridge to the summit. Small difficulties can often be circumvented to the south. At one point, the ridge narrows to a knife-edge, the most scenic part. Views down the north couloirs (they have been skied!) into Avalanche Cyn inspire care or, for some, a rope. After crossing the narrow spine, the ridge widens and is easy to the summit.
There is loose rock on the route except for the middle portion, but the angle of repose is less than the East Face. It's a fairly safe route if your scrambling skills are up to it.

Location 

The route ascends the gently-angled east ridge obvious from the valley floor.
Approach is by way of Stewart Draw to Timberline Lake (see area notes.)
Descend by the loose East Face route or (more fun) downclimb the East Ridge.

Protection 

For the novice, a belay might be welcome in a few spots. In early season, an axe and crampons should be carried. Before July, expect the route to be all snow; July is mixed. The amount of snow can be gauged from the valley.

Photos of East Ridge Slideshow

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Esther Udall having fun.	Bill Rosqvist looking down the East Face.	Summit slope