Indian Peaks - west side conditions

[Ridge runner]

Has anyone been on the west side of Indian Peaks recently? I'm specifically looking at the Lone Eagle area for this weekend, but I have no clue on what the snow is like up there. Any info would be great, thanks.

[Kevin Baker]

Hi, Stephanie:

I haven't been over to the west side of the IPW, but I did do Apache & Navajo on Monday. The snow was in great shape the entire day even though the temps soared into the 50's. Postholing was minimal on the way out. We're getting into the time of the year when the snowpack is mature and wet slabs are less of a concern, although not to say it couldn't happen. Probably the biggest concern now is old cornices breaking loose.

[Ridge runner]

Thanks, Kevin. What routes did you take for those two? I was kind of hoping things would be dry enough for Solo Flight on Lone Eagle, but given how the IPW is holding a fair amount of snow still I may re-direct my thoughts towards a snow climb.

[Kevin Baker]

We went up the Apache couloir and did the traverse over to Navajo. Up the west chimney on Navajo and down Airplane gully. The west chimney still held a bit of snow and ice, but it wasn't too bad if you watch your step. Here are the pics:

http://picasaweb.google.com/shknbke/ApacheNavajo#" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;