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4/3/16 Matterhorn Peak - Northern Sierras
#45652 04/04/16 09:53 PM
Joined: Mar 2013
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Mountains has taken a back seat to my running this past year so I signed up for a refresher interm. alpine mountaineering course. I've never been to the northern part of the Sierras, specifically the Sawtooth Ridge area and it definitely did not disappoint. It was just as beautiful as anything else in the Sierras but without the crowds. We were outnumbered 2:1 by skiers or split boarders but there were a few couloirs to choose from, that and with the standard shouts down the mountain to alert people ascending it was pretty safe for all. We took the east couloir of which the first 1/2 reminded of the mountaineers route however the upper portions did get somewhat steeper topping out at about 40-45% grade the last 100 ft. or so. Climbers with good foot work and confidence can climb up without a rope but crampons and an ice axe are definitely a must. Beyond the couloir we traversed the west side (I believe without the snow there is a trail there) where we negotiated some slushy, punchy snow. This was the sketchiest part of the route IMHO. Once we got through the slippery slush we scrambled up some class 3 to finally reach the breathtaking summit ridge then to the small summit plateau. The trip back down was uneventful, I actually did not use crampons down the couloir and simply took my time plunge stepping with poles.

We were lucky to have Ryan Sorenson as one of our instructors. He attempted the Mt. Shasta FKT in 2015 but had trouble with his watch, thus an unofficial time of 1:39. I'm sure we'll read more about this talented guy in the future.

https://gocarine.smugmug.com/Category/Matterhorn-Peak/n-nBszvX/i-4vDkLD6

Re: 4/3/16 Matterhorn Peak - Northern Sierras
happytrails #45655 04/04/16 11:12 PM
Joined: Sep 2009
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Wow, Carine! What an outstanding spring snow climb!

The Matterhorn was my first big hike and climb on a cross-country hike from Twin Lakes to Tuolumne Meadows ...44 years ago!! But that was a June trip.

Your views south across all Yosemite from there are awesome.

Click the picture for a full-size view.

Re: 4/3/16 Matterhorn Peak - Northern Sierras
Steve C #45662 04/05/16 10:21 AM
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Thanks Steve, it's gorgeous out there. I'm planning on weaning off some running mileage and getting back to mountain fun as the year progresses- perhaps tackle a big peak next year.

Wishing all the WZ'ers a safe and successful 2016.

Re: 4/3/16 Matterhorn Peak - Northern Sierras
happytrails #45676 04/06/16 09:59 AM
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Nice job, Carine! Yes, you need to get back into the mountains more. Thin air is good for you.


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