Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Failed attempt on Russell and Permit for July 5th?

This last Thursday I snagged a last-second permit for the MR to give Russell another go via Thompson Variation #2.

Due to a number of difficulties, including chances of T-storms in the AM, I got a later start, and ended getting turned around trying to find the elusive slabs up to the Russell Carillon Saddle. In the end I completed solid class 3 climb to the saddle (detailed route description to come) saved from a vast majority of the sand.

I was clotheslined by the altitude additionally.

I however missed my hard turn-around time so I didn't start the East Ridge. Fresh memories of the late hiker who passed last week deterred me from trying to climb then descend in the dark on the MR.

Though I stand by my decision to turn-around, I must admit a bruised ego at failing my objective and I demand satisfaction. Now with a few days of rest at sea-level I'd like to give the MR a go on Saturday. Anyone have any extra day permits for 7/5?

However, expect a TR from my failed day with a detailed series of directions for those who wish to climb Russell and avoid the majority of the sand.

I get your frustration, but I have way more respect for someone who sets a plan and sticks to it even when it means failure than I do for someone who does something pretty stupid based on pride and endangers other people because they have to go look for him. So well done. You live to try again, and that's all that really matters anyway.

As I had mentioned on the WPSMB, it was not a "failed day."

You did what very few people consider: Knowing when to stop and turn around.

There will be other excellent days to try again.

We look forward to a "mission accomplished" TR.

Looking forward to the route info. The hours and hours of sand climbing are still memorable.

I agree not a failed day. You saw beautiful things and did something that made a whole day fun - how can that be fail? I call it an appetizer. And some days I'm full on the appetizer!

The mountain always has it say. It is always a good thing when it says turn around, you turn around.

How much of the pleasure of mountaineering lies in all the varied experience of the Attempt; how much depends on the garnish of Success?

Eric Shipton, Mountains of Tartary page 574