Ice Climbing 8:00:00 [3] 7.0 mi (1:08:34 / mi) +1000m 47:30 / mi
Hiked into Huntington Ravine and climbed Odell's gully for the first time. Avalanche risk was low in the entire Ravine, and the weather report promised "spectacular" conditions. No lie.
We were behind 2 parties of 2 in Odell's. After a little waiting, eating, gear organizing, and enjoying the view, we were ready to climb. The first pitch was a full 60 meters, up moderate ice. Second pitch was another full 60 meters of mostly moderate ice. The terrain was amazing; a wide expanse of vivid, almost glowing, blue bulges of ice. It looked very other-worldly. Behind us, we could see rolling mountain tops, and our entire ascent route.
Starting the second pitch, there was one 12 foot vertical bulge that was fun to lead. After the first 2 pitches, we simul-climbed the next section for 300-400 feet, placing an occasional screw and clipping trees along the way.
Topped out at the alpine garden, hiked over to get a good view of Tuckerman's Ravine, before descending the Lion's Head winter trail - Crazy steep, fun!