It had been awhile since EJ, Jim and I got out together but today we were able to juggle everyone’s schedule for a climb in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. We have big plans this summer and thought this would be a good first step in our progression towards the Grand Teton and Gannett Peak this August. We settled on the Skywalker Couloir on South Arapahoe Peak for it short length (6 miles RT) and challenging climbing (steep snow up to 60 degrees). We made pretty good time to the base of the route but EJ was still battling bronchitis and was forced to turnaround. Jim and I continued to the summit making slow and steady pace. The couloir was amazing and the snow conditions were ok. The steepest portion of the climb was in the sun for several hours when we arrived which made for spicy climbing for Jim and I. It took us 4 hours to get to the summit and a little over 2.5 hours to get back to the car. Definitely a great route if you catch the conditions just right. 

EJ & Jim at the Trailhead

Wes Approaching Our Route

Jim Climbs the Skywalker Couloir

Wes Climbs the Skywalker Couloir

Jim & EJ Near A Stream Crossing

Wes & Jim at the Summit

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