hillmans highway

[giggy]

Hello - can someone give any beta on this - I have never climbed this but want to before the season ends. My research says this is not all that steep and doesn't require snow belays - (steep meaning more then 40 degrees) and would be a nice snow climb. I don't plan to ski it - just climb it.

just want to make sure I got my facts right before I go up there and it turns into a 70 degree ice climb. (exaggerating here, but you get my point)

I am really interested is how it tops out - I think most people ski down it - I think it just tops out like any other gully - just want to make sure the last section isn't vertical or anything - doubt it is - just making sure.
and it seems that once near the top - it forks off left and right - any suggestions which is better to take?



thanks

Just so you know - I do have some ice climbing expirencee and have done south gully a couple of times, winter lion head route many times, boot spur link in winter many time, and have mountaineering training, etc...

 

[TrekMan]

About Hillman's

I have done Hillman's with my sone before. You do not need technical equipment and you can basically climb as high as you choose - it gets steeper as you climb, not unlike the headwall. I have done that before too and encourage you to look at that as well. Climb until you start to get uncomfortable with the pitch.
Have a blast - I may be up there with camera (not skis) April 9&10.

 

[el-bagr]

TrekMan has it right. It can be a great snow climb, particularly when the corn cycle is correct. Be aware that at this time of year, avalanche risk can be significant. I personally would not go without the holy trinity (beacon, probe shovel) if in a group at this time of year (at least the beacon even if you're solo). Also be aware that someone above you may trigger a slide that affects you.

I would personally bring a mountain axe and crampons at this time of year.

Also be aware that there are likely to be skiers descending this route. There should be plenty of room for passing, but it'd be nice if all users accomodated each other.

Take pictures!

 

[giggy]

thanks guys - I just added a couple of additional thought -

will only be doing if ava risk is low and will have spikes and axe.

 

[Dr. Dasypodidae]

avy risk was low today all around da Wash....

 

[giggy]

yep - was there - ended up climbing right right gully.