Mountain Project: Forum: Temple Crag - Venusian blind. Do I need crampons and ice axe?

By randy88fj62
Jul 10, 2012

Attempted Sun Ribbon Arete earlier in the season and had to use ice axe and crampons to get to the start of the climb.

Planning on Venusian Blind this weekend and wondered if the last bit of approach to the climb or the descent down contact pass had any steep snow or other technical obstacles that would require crampons and an ice axe.

Thanks.

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By Michael Warren
From Los Angeles, CA
Jul 12, 2012

randy88fj62 wrote:

Attempted Sun Ribbon Arete earlier in the season and had to use ice axe and crampons to get to the start of the climb. Planning on Venusian Blind this weekend and wondered if the last bit of approach to the climb or the descent down contact pass had any steep snow or other technical obstacles that would require crampons and an ice axe. Thanks.

This time of year, and with the limited snowfall, you'll be fine without crampons and ice axe. Just arrive in the day, and kick some steps to the approach, and stash you gear at the base. Next morning, you'll cruise the approach, steps will be frozen and nice.

Good luck.

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By randy88fj62
Jul 17, 2012

Didn't need crampons or ice axe. We were able to bypass the snow by climbing a chimney on the left as stated on the supertopo description.

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By Alexander89
Jul 24, 2012

Hi Randy, looking to head out to SRA this weekend 7/28. How is the approach with the snow. Hoping that we wouldn't need axes or crampons like on Venusian. Any info on approach and/or climb would be greatly appreciated!
Alex

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By randy88fj62
Jul 24, 2012

Alexander89 wrote:

Alex,
When I attempted SRA 7 weeks ago, crampons and ice axe were mandatory. There is less snow now but the snowfield is still there and it is hard and compacted with some small sections of underlying ice. I personally would not attempt to get up to the start without an ice axe but I am new to the technical mountaineering game and I err on the cautious side.

I did not check the right side of the snowfield (towards 3rd lake, not contact pass) and I am not sure if you would be able to side skirt the snow completely.

With my limited experience as a novice mountaineer I would recommend cutting steps the day before if you are motivated or bringing two ice axes and having someone lead the snow and set up a fixed rope for the rest of your party or partner.

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By Alexander89
Jul 24, 2012

Sweet thanks for the info! Hope you had a great time on Venusian! Not looking forward to the contact pass descent though.
Alex

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By randy88fj62
Jul 25, 2012

Be careful descending the pass. We did it in the dark and it was a loose sandy and rocky chose fest. Carry a good headlamp and spare batteries.

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