Winter ADK 2019

Got out for the ADK backcountry trip this year. Six of us stayed at Grace Camp. Conditions were pretty awesome. Lots and lots of fresh snow.

The first day Craig, Zak, and I bushwacked up Howard mt to look for some ice up there. We found it, but it was a little over our pay grade, and we were a little whooped.

The second day Craig, Zak, and I attempted to summit Big Slide (over 4k feet). Craig and Zak turned back shortly before the summit, but I pushed on.

Visibility was terrible and the wind was driving snow into my face, but I wanted to see what it would be like from a climbing perspective for the kids. It was steep and covered with deep snow, which isn’t so bad going up. Going back down presented some challenges due to the steepness. For the girls, I’d likely bring a rope and lower them wearing our harnesses. Of course that assumes lots of snow which makes it easier and softer. I imagine if/when I get there with them it will all be ice. Lowering technique is still the same, just harder bumps along the way.

I’ve got the cabin booked for the family next month. I guess we’ll find out then.

 – b