From the notch in the distance, it’s easier terrain to the summit.
Route: North Face
Team: Christy, Ted
Christy and I came here earlier this season (March) but found the snow to be pretty unstable, so we turned around and went home. After a recent spring storm blew through the state, we decided to give the El Diente – Mount Wilson pair another look.
We made it a good way up the Silver Pick Road, and then skinned to Rock of Ages Saddle. From there we had a clear view of both peaks, and there looked to be plenty of snow. We couldn’t see the intricate summit sections however, and they would prove to be pretty committing. We skied across Navajo Basin and began to boot up the North Face of El Diente. The new snow took a bit of effort to break trail through, and the airy traverse across the North Face cliff bands was pretty exciting. After connecting with the summit, we retraced our route back off the top, and then skied the soft snow back down to the basin before heading to Mount Wilson. It was a really good ski.
From Navajo Basin you can see the route. The upper difficulties aren’t as apparent.
Christy breaks trail up the North Face.
Eventually you have to traverse across to get to the direct line off the summit.
From the notch in the distance, it’s easier terrain to the summit.
Back at the notch, above the traverse.
Carefully picking our way back down to the easier North Face terrain.
And then back on the fun part. Next up Mount Wilson.
And down. It was really good skiing.
Leave a Reply