DB Noodler had given rave reviews for this ski run just 2 weeks earlier so there was reason to be optimistic, but there is always doubt. The run is hidden from the trailhead so I summoned up my all my faith and let Jesus take the wheel. The approach parallels power lines along a gravel road that is closed to motor vehicles. Soon the shot was in view and I knew something was gonna happen.
Rock fall seem to be fairly common here so I stole a page out of MJ's playbook by removing the rocks from the snow throughout the climb. The walls were towering above me on both sides and I was thoroughly enjoying the afternoon. Then it got weird. THUD, and and about a dozen small rocks, a bit of a shake, and huh.... What in the Sam Hell was that? 4.1!
Shaken not deterred, I continued up. It got narrow and then opened into a wider section with decent snow. Above the wide section there was a tight choke heading to the ridge. I decided that the wide section would be more appropriate given my busted boots, shot nerves, no turns for a month, and rolling solo. It would be a good warm up for the "crux" below.
The sun cups were 2-3" deep, with only about the top 1" coming off on each turn. Not ideal but fun. I got into a rhythm and kept it through the choke. The snow got dirtier and firmer. It was tough to hold an edge and I was in no mood to fight it at this point. I skidded lazily through my turns getting a free foot massage from the wash board "snow."
That was .... interesting. I took my time on the hike down and eventually made it to the tundra. It looked like rain was on the way and I was glad to have gotten the window. And what to my wondering eyes should appear? That's right! A bottle of Kokanee Gold laying in the tundra; label bleached silver. Dare I hope? Could it be? Madre de Dios, the legends are true! Actually it tasted awful, but a free beer is a free beer.
- Andreas Baader
