April 15, 2004
Page 2
Sitting here we look to the right and have kinda always talked about trying an ascent up this mountain from here.
We have only really tried it once before even though we have ended up at the base of a good looking run several times.
It is the kinda thing that you think about, but don't expect you may ever get around to really trying.
Just look at the photo and pick your line.
This is one big, steep mountain.
Once your here, the mountain, like a good trapper luring in his prey, lays a nice trail that just leads you on to the base of a very alluring yet daunting run up.
So on we go, as we have gone before, unaware that today the challenge would be accepted.
This is the beginning.
A few of us have made it to the stand of trees at the top right of this photo.
The snow must be just right to get up, but it is never just right when it comes to coming down!
Today it was better than I had ever seen it for climbing. Without thinking I just started up.
Before I knew it I was high enough to be thinking faster, trying to mentally catch up to what I was getting myself into. I had to quickly consider the choices which get fewer and fewer.
Is the snow hard enough to climb this chute? or should I be thinking about turning? Can I hit this steep section?
Then where will I go? The whole time your still going up because you really don't have many options left.
But always in the back of your mind is the constant fear of the future, GOING DOWN!
Then you crest over onto a nice but small bench where you can gather yourself to get ready for the next lift...Or chicken out and turn it downhill for the ride you already don't want to take.
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