Mineral Fork Ice

With an approach taking way longer than the climbing, and, ice that is fickle, this transient ice route is an interesting diversion from the more classic and commonly done ice routes.

Expect the ice to be not well attached as the route is exposed to the sun. Can use the rock to gain distance up the route should the ice be "interesting".

An initial steep section rolls over to a short, low angle bowl which leads to another short, steep curtain.

Longer than it looks.

Several possible finishes available. A scratchy traverse though bushes to a large pine tree pitched out over the route may be the best rappel anchor, but, take care getting to it. Other trees located above route as well.

Take a couple of long (60m or more) ropes.

Located around 2 miles up the Mineral Fork drainage, on the east side of the canyon, near the descent of the West Coulior of Kessler.

Rappel route (two 60m or longer ropes recommended).

Located to the right of a large rock buttress.

Standard rack of screws, maybe a couple of pins if the ice is thin, and some cord/webbing for a v-thread or rappel anchor on a large pine tree.