Russell

Looking for someone who wants to climb Russell in the next 4-6 weeks. In the summer it is class 3-4. Shouldn't be too awful in the winter but I don't want to do it alone.

If doing the East ridge, it should be fine solo but depends on your preference.

Yes, East Ridge. Pics look fine for summer but wasn't sure about winter.

What is it like this time of year?

Andrew Riser wrote:Yes, East Ridge. Pics look fine for summer but wasn't sure about winter. What is it like this time of year?

With this snow, the road is likely closed for the season. It is 3.5mi from the gate to the portal store.

A friend attempted it solo in winter once, found it impassible at some point. He had been soloing things such as East Buttress of Whitney (under normal summer conditions) so I think he encountered a plumb sketchy condition.

Over and out.

We encountered an icy section just below the summit in early spring once. We had to put on our crampons for that. Otherwise easy enough, but why go out there in the winter? There's so much to climb I would think the trouble of Russell in winter would lead you someone else.

Of course, it would be nice to have it without the summer crowds...very beautiful place.

The ridge proper is often pretty dry. Keep in mind that the higher elevations on the east side are SUPER windy, and they see much less snow than the lower elevations on the west side near e.g. Alta Peak. That said, the third class route of least resistance WILL be covered in snow, so you'll have to clamber around nearer the ridge crest where the climbing is a little harder. If you can solo mid fifth comfortably, sometimes with crampons, go for it. You'll have a fine adventure.

Until recently local law enforcement turned a blind eye to hikers or climbers who drove past the "road closed" sign posted where the Portal Road switchbacks right and steepens, but people have been getting ticketed. It's better to park in the lot right before the sign and hike up. It's 2000 ft up and just under four miles but it's easy walking.

Here are some pics from winter 2008:

Love the pictures!

Not comfortable soloing in the mid 5's. Plenty of rope soloing and simul-climbing in the mid to high 5's (single digit) though.

Sounds like I'll take my rope solo equipment and plug in if things get dicey.

Thanks for the advice!