Gym_Dandy

I am looking for a parnter for a possible Denali trip this spring. I am interested in the upper West Rib, but will entertain other ideas as well. The ideal time for me would be late May through June. Please email at gym_dandy@hotmail.com if you are interested. Thanks

Can anyone who has done the upper West Rib on Denali give some information on the technical difficulty? Did you encounter 5th class rock? How steep was the ice? How much rock protection, if any, was used? The two guide books (Jon Waterman's and Colby Coombs' and Mike Woods') were a bit vague. I am also interested in opinions on soft shells for Denali. Would you use a light Schoeller pant as your main shell? I am not worried about moisture so much as wind. Seems like this would be ideal as it breathes well for the lower glacier and then easily layers under an insulated pant for higher elevations. Thanks.