RUSTYKNEES

Just up there two weeks ago. Skip the ice axe, there's only the tiny patch of snow left that you see in the picture, and the run out if you fell (you won't) is safe and is even fun to glissade. I took a rope there a few years ago in the summer and never took it out of my pack. It is a pile of choss, but has a great view. Last year there was a family with four kids under 14 years old on the summit. I watched from high divide this weekend and saw about 15 people near or on the summit.

I would go with Bill's recommendation. The route is straightforeward and has an unmistakeable bootpath. Just go to the pass, and before boundry camp turn right up the hill. If you go from Hannagan camp, you will only trample the heather this time of year. The bowl is a good shortcut when its full of snow, though. You won't need crampons to summit Ruth.

I have the titanal 2's and I just purchased some freerides. Freerides have a more robust toepiece, and Fritschi claims the rail is stronger too. I can't tell the difference by looking at the rail. The shims appear to be purely cosmetic. They climb excactly the same. They feel tighter than my Titanal 2's, but they are new, so who knows. Take a good look at the Naxos before you buy. The adjustment teeth for the boot length looks suspect, and I didn't trust the plastic threads for the boot height adjustment. So far I can't find anyone who will report on them. Maybe after a year or two of evolution...

your skin is found! Go to echoads.com under sporting equipment. The guys number is 360-676-0311