Blue Cheese - ice

Quick report

Weather

sunny, cold

Climb Name

Blue Cheese

Ice Quality

ok

Approach decent. There is a deadfall tree across the trail almost at the climb needing a squeeze under it. 10-12" diameter so may need a chainsaw to clear it. Snow depths were shallow, barely a few CM's. Large hoar frost on the surface crossing the dam and smaller hoar frost on the High Rockies Trail. Facets seemed common. No signs of blowing snow in the valley or in the alpine but many slopes looked wind scoured across the valley. Climb itself is still somewhat low volume and has yet to really fatten out. It is possible to have two ropes set up if parties work together like today and thanks for doing so. Left side was not the typical pillar but did have a nice groove to climb. Right side was a hollow pillar with clear windows showing running water inside the tube. A 13cm didn't break through though so thicker than it looks. Right side also featured petals and cauliflower making the lead more interesting. It's "in" but not as fat or blue as it normally gets... yet.