Sierra Climbing - Day 3: Mt. Humphreys

Day 3
Mt. Humphreys (13,986')
18 mi, 5000 ft. gain

A year-long goal has finally been accomplished. I first admired this peak from nearby Pilot Knob last summer, as a participant in the Sierra Challenge. This is one of the most beautiful peaks in the High Sierra and looks high and intimidating from all directions. The easiest route up it is a stiff class 4 climb up the SW Face/NW Ridge. Starting at North Lake at 6am, I dragged myself out of my sleeping bag into the cold darkness. The sunrise soon enveloped me as I made my way across Humphreys Basin. The climb itself was long and exposed, demanding sharp concentration the whole time. This is the most difficult climb I've solo'ed so far, but through it all, I was very confident and sure of myself. I never felt unsafe. It is a beautiful feeling, climbing in such a pristine environment with no one around for miles and miles on a high Sierra summit. High clouds rolled in during the descent, but fortunately I missed the thunder and lightning that was to ensue by just 15 minutes!

A longer trip report to be written for this peak later as well.

My plans for the remainder of the week now remain in limbo. I'm in the town of Bishop, CA in the Eastern Sierra stealing free internet from a local coffee shop. A weather advisory from the National Weather Service that just came in today warns of a fast moving cold front that will bring high winds and cold temperatures to the Sierra Nevada starting tomorrow through the weekend. Bummer. I'll spend the next few minutes pondering this and decide whether to head further South in the range or to go home altogether. To my climbing friends: If you have any suggestions for peaks South of the Mt.Whitney/Mt. Williamson region, please do let me know!

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Summit view from Mt. Humphreys looking South at Glacier Divide and the Evolution group of peaks.