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Probably one of the most intense hikes I've done so far this past year. Offroading to Jaws 1 in the dark had my adrenaline going the night prior. Felt like I was ready for anything after that. If you are planning to do the traverse: Research, Research, Research. Give yourself all the time you'll think you need.
Early morning shot of LB against the San Luis Valley:
Hour Glass - there was a lot of ice around the center of the hour glass. Decided to climb a fair amount to the left for solid rock and to avoid that sketch:
Summit of LB:
Sea of Mountains & Clouds:
A look at the connecting ridge:
The Crestones, Kit, Challenger, & Humboldt to the far north:
The down climb from LB was probably the most heart pounding moment of the traverse. Some of the rock portions were composed of really smooth rock and that was covered with ice/snow. If you ever face conditions like this, take your time and evaluate all options.
Exposure:
Blanca:
Looking back at Little Bear:
Almost there!
Summit!
Heading over to Ellingwood:
Looking back at the LB -> Blanca Traverse:
Ellingwood Summit:
Time to head home:
Thumbnails for uploaded photos (click to open slideshow):
Solid outing - you got some great shots of my favorite of the "four great traverses." The Bells traverse is the most scenic, but I think this one is the best for the amount of time you spend on an exposed ridge - and the rock is way more fun, because you can trust most of it.
Other than the downclimb from LB, the catwalk near Blanca had my adrenaline straight surging.
Marmot, I agree with you all the way.
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