Wetterhorn/Uncompahgre - Last weekend of winter?

[Slim Pickins Profile 14er Peak List (2)]

This sounds like a great trip! I'm definitely in:)

[ACERyGuy007 Profile 14er Peak List (26) 14ers in Winter (1)13er Peak List (13)]

Sounds awesome!

Count me in as well.

-Ryan

[MountainMedic Profile 14er Peak List (40) 14ers Skied (2)13er Peak List (4)Trip Reports]

Have healed leg, will climb. Time to hit the Therabands.

[DaveSwink Profile 14er Peak List (37) 14ers in Winter (12)13er Peak List (4)Trip Reports]

Have healed leg, will climb. Time to hit the Therabands.

Good to hear. Your tendons and range of motion will take longer than the bone or muscle. Do the PT, it hurts but you will be climbing sooner.

[wildlobo71 Profile 14er Peak List (58) 14ers in Winter (8)13er Peak List (31)Trip Reports]

Have healed leg, will climb. Time to hit the Therabands.

Thanks for being full-time trail breaker Tyler.

[I Man Profile Website 14er Peak List (47) 14ers in Winter (38)13er Peak List (50)Trip Reports]

The Wetterhorn is doable in winter. The distance the road can add is a major factor, as is gaining the saddle from the basin above Matterhorn Creek. Once on the ridge, the slopes are steep and loose and occasional scrambling might be required to gain the area between the Prow and the summit (I felt this was the crux). This area holds a lot of snow and one must swim towards the notch. It would seem that the ramp is completely snow free most years (was in 2009 and 2012) and the crux can go either way. In a low snow year/good temperature day there might only be snow with some ice and micospikes were enough (no rope). Other parties have rappelled this section, but I haven't heard of too many protecting the climb.

This is a wonderful place to visit in winter.

[zoriloco Profile 14er Peak List (15) 14ers in Winter (1)Trip Reports]

I have it in my Calendar! I really enjoy these get togethers.

[d_baker Profile 14er Peak List (56) 14ers in Winter (12)13er Peak List (156)Trip Reports]

The Wetterhorn is doable in winter. The distance the road can add is a major factor, as is gaining the saddle from the basin above Matterhorn Creek. Once on the ridge, the slopes are steep and loose and occasional scrambling might be required to gain the area between the Prow and the summit (I felt this was the crux). This area holds a lot of snow and one must swim towards the notch. It would seem that the ramp is completely snow free most years (was in 2009 and 2012) and the crux can go either way. In a low snow year/good temperature day there might only be snow with some ice and micospikes were enough (no rope). Other parties have rappelled this section, but I haven't heard of too many protecting the climb.

This is a wonderful place to visit in winter.

But Mr. Man, it is worth mentioning to anyone considering this trip that Wetterhorn is and can be more serious in winter, or winter like conditions. In your own report, you mention how it was "intimidating" and "intense" as well as "this route is no joke."
I don't think the mountain and the route should be downplayed or thought of as simply "doable." Yeah, it's doable....but not everyone is a badass and risk tolerance will vary.

From my poor memory, I recall past winter gatherings have been organized with easier winter peaks in mind for all skill levels to participate. (Easier winter peaks without much if any scrambling or exposure involved.)
This year is obviously different, but I'm sure the organizers will give full disclosure of the increased risk with Wetterhorn to those interested in an attempt.

[Fletch Profile 14er Peak List Not Entered]

Are we now saying The Wetterhorn has a crux? It's a walk up people! Slightly slippery and colder in winter! Be advised.

I feel like I'm taking crazy pills!

[dmccool Profile 14er Peak List (58) 14ers in Winter (7)13er Peak List (10)Trip Reports]

I feel like I'm taking crazy pills!

James.jpg (7.08 KiB) Viewed 389 times

[Fletch Profile 14er Peak List Not Entered]

What I meant to say was that if you've never had crampons or snowshoes on before or you've never hiked a 14er, this isn't the trip for you. Avy 1 and being in good shape would help you out tremendously, but I don't think it's mandatory. What is most important is good judgement. Don't go on this trip with the typical 14er herd mentality that is generally governed by "if so and so is going ahead, it must be safe or I can do it." Everyone must have their own backup plan, make their own decisions, and live with their consequences.

And please don't over-dramatize this stuff. Call it like it is. A big road hike, a pleasant approach through a gorgeous valley, and some easy solid scrambling to the top. This part could be further complicated with the presence of ice, but nothing too harry if you meet the above conditions. if its too much, then turn around --- you will still enjoy your trip. This isn't some Eiger expedition from the 30's...

[lman86 Profile 14er Peak List (2)]

This isn't some Eiger expedition from the 30's...

+1

The exit cracks are completely snow free most years (or they were in 1936 and 1939).