Log In 
Peak(s):  Gladstone Peak  -  13,923 feet
Date Posted:  06/16/2011
Date Climbed:   05/06/2011
Author:  Dad Mike
 Gladstone's Southeast Ridge   

This is not much of a trip report. I just thought some pictures and a quick description of this route might be helpful in case someone else is thinking about attempting Gladstone from the Slate Creek drainage.

I read a report about the Box Car Couloir and thought it would be fun to climb Gladstone from the same approach. I couldn't find any information on this route, but from Google Earth and topo maps, it looked possible to gain the Southeast Ridge on snow.

I was right. There is an obvious couloir that leads to the ridge...it starts around 12,800'. As I was heading up, I started to realize that the ridge was going to be tougher than I expected. I saw the tower that stopped me as I was climbing up the coiloir...had a bad feeling about that thing. I just didn't feel comfortable climbing it in ski boots and without a rope for the return trip. The snow that is in the left of the tower picture is not an option...it looks like it might be in the pic.

Evidence...

Image
View from Cross Mtn Trailhead


Image
Upper Slate Creek


Image
That's one bad ass tree


Image
The route to the Southeast Ridge


Image
Looking down from the top of the couloir


Image
Tower on the ridge


Image
Looking back down the ridge at my skis and the ridge to Cross Mtn


Image
Not today


Image
The first few turns were a little intimidating


Image
Slate Creek...don't be tempted to follow the creek all the way down...not fun



Thumbnails for uploaded photos (click to open slideshow):
1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 12


Comments or Questions
Marmot72
User
Thanks for the report
11/16/2011 7:16am
There's little on Gladstone...I got stormed off the Bilk Creek approach in 2010 at like 10:45 am -- ridiculous! - anyhow, great pics and I love to see someone out there, finding new routes.



   Not registered?


Caution: The information contained in this report may not be accurate and should not be the only resource used in preparation for your climb. Failure to have the necessary experience, physical conditioning, supplies or equipment can result in injury or death. 14ers.com and the author(s) of this report provide no warranties, either express or implied, that the information provided is accurate or reliable. By using the information provided, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless 14ers.com and the report author(s) with respect to any claims and demands against them, including any attorney fees and expenses. Please read the 14ers.com Safety and Disclaimer pages for more information.


Please respect private property: 14ers.com supports the rights of private landowners to determine how and by whom their land will be used. In Colorado, it is your responsibility to determine if land is private and to obtain the appropriate permission before entering the property.