Boulder Glacier - 2013

Boulder/Park Cleaver - July 29, 2013

Boulder Ridge Trail is clear of snow to the top of the rock step at about 5000 feet. The first 1.5 miles of the trail are in good condition, but there are 4-6 downed trees and a few sections of dense brush thereafter. 

Consolidated corn snow exists on most of the route with suncups reaching up to about 9000 feet. Also, a few small sections of dry glacier are beginning to melt out. 

Boulder Ridge trail in current conditions.
Boulder Ridge as seen from below the rock step at 5000 feet.
The Boulder/Park Cleaver does not see much traffic, especially later in the summer when snow bridges are gone and crevasses have opened up. Currently, 8-10 dry campsites exist between Boulder Ridge and the base of the cleaver. Running water is readily available throughout this area. Mountain goats, marmots, ptarmigan, and ravens have been observed here and all climbers should remember to store their food properly. Please remember to pack out all human waste, food scraps, and other garbage. This is a pristine environment that must be kept clean. 

The Boulder/Park Cleaver route.
Closer view of the Boulder/ Park Cleaver route.
The route up the Boulder/ Park Cleaver is currently in late-season form. It is possible to remain mostly on snow from Boulder Ridge to the base of the cleaver. Reaching the top of the cleaver may require some travel over loose rock. At least two technical crevasse crossings exist above 9000 feet and these features will become even more difficult to cross as the snowpack continues to melt. Climbers should anticipate challenging route-finding through a broken, complex glacier when planning their ascent. Happy climbing!                        


Boulder Ridge Trail - June 10, 2013

Boulder Ridge Trail is snow free for the first 1.5 miles, snow covers the trail after this point. Route finding skills are necessary for the remainder of the trail up to the Boulder Ridge camps. The rock step prior to gaining Boulder Ridge remains partially snow covered and has formed a large moat. Stay tuned for route conditions. . .