Fernow - Copper Peak Ridge Traverse

[cgolden123]

Two buddies and myself are planning a Maude, 7FJ, Fernow and Copper trip in late August, and we are curious about the ridge connecting Fernow and Copper. Anyone ever traversed it? Seems like most people drop down east to the glacier when going from Fernow to Copper.

[seano-]

I did Copper to Fernow in 2014, and remember a bit of low 5th class here and there, and a section of chossy rock near Fernow.

[cgolden123]

Thanks! What was the exposure like? It seems like it could get pretty intense in some spots?

[seano-]

Yeah, there were some intense parts, though I found most of it comfortable. The first crux I remember is some outward-sloping ledges getting up Copper via the ridge, which Beckey describes as "some miners did this, class 5". I also remember a rotten, exposed traverse near Fernow, which I would probably try to avoid if I did it again.

[cgolden123]

Thanks again for your help on this. One last question. Do you remember how many raps, if any you did? Debating what size rope to bring.

 

[seano-]

I don't rap, so I can't say for sure, but I don't remember finding a lot of tat.

[JasonG]

I don't rap

 

A ridge running machine never does :[]