First of all, I have to say that I feel like by doing a TR on Capitol, I will add very little, being that there are already many great TR's already posted here by various members. Anyways, I will continue none the less.
I arrived at the trailhead on saturday at about 1335, geared up and as I was heading out, met with fellow 14ers member Ocnorb. I was already planning to meet up with a few other members, and coincidentally he was meeting the same ppl. We teamed up and hiked up the ditch trail. Dodging the occasional cow inspired landmine, we eventually met up with the other members that had a slight head start on us, after meeting up with Marcia and Co. we continued up the trail to finally arrive at the Capitol Lake area around 1700. Important note to this approach and this time of year: valuable camping space has a high premium... Be early or be prepared to make do with whatever is left over. We cooked dinner, filtered water, and set up camp. Some slight drizzle, but nothing too serious. After discussing our plans for the next day I came to the conclusion that because the tentativeness of the weather of late, I chose to leave pretty early(0400) while the rest of the group decided to sleep a little longer and depart camp at 0500.
0315 came quite early, but managed to eat some food, pack up my sleeping area and depart camp with daypack, Ice ax, and helmet no later than 0400. The hike up to the Daly saddle went well albeit by headlamp. Then across the back ridge and up to K2 went equally well. I stayed here on K2 to watch the sun come up and had some absolutely amazing views of not only Capitol, but also the surrounding countryside. From K2 I continued up across the knife-edge, and eventually to the summit(0825).
Maroon Bells and Snowmass
I stayed on the summit for about 35-40 minutes, and then turned around for the trek out. Passed several climbers as I was headed down the mountain, including Marcia, Ocnorb and Co. who all seemed to be doing well. Had some fun glissading on the back ridge after K2 and eventually made my, way after a slight pole locating detour, back to Capitol lake camping area(1125). I packed up my gear and headed back out finally making to the parking area at the end of the ditch trail arount 1330.
All in all a long day, but well worth it. Thanks Marcia and Ocnorb for the companionship the first day... Look foward to more climbs. Few pointers, bring an ax, the glissading is amazing, and helmet should be considered a requirement for this climb.
Thumbnails for uploaded photos (click to open slideshow):
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