[TR] Watson - North Ridge 08/07/2018

[dberdinka]

Trip: Watson - North Ridge

Trip Date: 08/07/2018

Trip Report:

 

Obscure, short and slabby with one of the mellowest approaches you’ll find in the North Cascades.  Gloriously beautiful as well.   Maybe not the highlight of your summer but possibly of your Tuesday evening.

From the buttress toe a 150’ of 3rd or maybe 4th class rock leads to a more pronounced buttress.  The original route climbs the obvious corner system on the north side (5.4 Kloke 1970’s).   It’s also possible to move up left to the very crest and climb a full rope length of 5.6 on ridiculously clean and solid rock.  A bit runout but gear (and/or fixed pins) show up where you need it.  Continue on the crest, slightly dirtier rock,  to the summit in one more pitch or wander off to either side.

We descended east which involved some downclimbing, a rappel, a loose gully, a moat and some moderate snow.   Supposedly a more straightforward descent might exist to the west if you carry over.

 

Gear Notes:
Small rack to 2.5”. 60m rope. Ice axe and possibly crampons.

Approach Notes:
Find you way to Upper Anderson Lake then faint path up gully at east side of first lake.

 

Edited August 8, 2018 by dberdinka

[curtveld]

Cool!  I've heard this is a fun route, so thanks for the reminder.

[Jason4]

Such a cool and close area.  I need to get out there again this year.  Thanks for sharing and inspiring.