| Grays and Torreys Peak Trip Report We did the standard route up Grays Peak, dropped down to the Grays/Torreys saddle and climbed up Torreys. This was a gentle hike and made for a fine day in the mountains by itself. We also got the opportunity to share the peaks with over a hundred of fellow mountain enthusiasts dragging themselves to the top (Sarcasm). If you don't like sharing your mountains consider doing these two popular peaks out of season. Going back to the saddle after climbing Torreys I threw on my shell layer for an excellent glissade. My dad chose to hike down the trail with the dog. At the top of this snow slope/gully was a nice big cornice that proved no immediate threat in the late summer season we were in. I previewed the snow below the cornice and walked back from the edge. I proceeded to wind up and jump off the cornice, tracking some good air time. As if that wasn't enough excitement the steep gully started narrowing as I speed up. At the narrowest part on my path I had to roll over to avoid the rock walls as the snow I had been knocking loose started accumulating so when I got spat out of the narrow section I was riding entirely on moving snow. Towards the bottom of the slope I vividly remember snow I was riding on being directed around a protruding rock just like water in a river. At the bottom of my easy way down I waited for my dad who was hiking. I would highly recommend this descent to anyone with an ice axe and the skills to use one. Avalanche danger would be a major concern in winter and spring. I'd like to come back with my skis to ski the thing. The main routes on these peaks do little to excite the technical climber but there are several mountaineering routes on Torreys ready for them. Back to Fourteeners Back to Dan's Basecamp Pictures coming..... |