North America, United States, California—Sierra Nevada, Mount Powell, East Face

Publication Year: 1991.

Mount Powell, East Face. Intending to climb the original route on the east face of Mount Powell, on August 28 I told my brother Glenn the first pitch was 5.8 and the rest easier. After two pitches of solid 5.8, it was obvious we were lost. I headed up and left to avoid an off-width crack and large overhangs in the main comer. The first of three 5.9 pitches was particularly unpleasant with tricky route-finding, poor protection and loose rock. Dodging missiles and shivering, Glenn had the audacity to question the amount of fun we were having. The next pitch made up for it with exciting face-climbing and better rock. The last pitch started with a problematic overhang but soon eased, allowing us to enjoy the afternoon sun on the summit. (III, 5.9.)

David Harden