Shawn came down from Houston again for another sweet day of ice climbing. Our last trip together we climbed Professor Falls, and this time he wanted to try a more difficult climb. We decided that combining Guinness Gully with the climbs above would be a good choice.
Shawn near the top of Guinness Gully.
It was a warm morning as we started up the first pitch of Guinness, there was even a bit of water flowing behind the ice in spots. I don't think that pitch will last much longer. As we climbed higher the ice improved and we were on top of Guinness Gully in no time.
After a short food & water break we hiked the 20 minutes up to Guinness Stout (WI 4+, 80m). The long final pitch of Guinness Stout was very physical climbing with lots of swinging required!
Me pulling onto the ice at the start of High Test. Photo: Shawn P.
Still not tired out, we headed over to High Test (WI 4+, 60m). The first few feet of the first pitch were missing but we managed to haul ourselves up the short overhang onto the ice. The main upper pitch was a bit harder than Guinness Stout but went smoothly nonetheless.
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Me starting up the main pitch of High Test. Photo: Shawn P.
With all three routes combined, it made for a very full day of climbing!
Shawn rappelling down High Test.
J. Mills
CRAG Head Guide
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