First Guided Ascent Of Coxcomb Ridge?

The daunting Coxcomb Ridge on Mnt. Aspiring was climbed last week by guide Federico Varengo and Geraint Williams. Requiring one bivi the pair found the climb long and "attention getting" especially since the dry time of year meant that the pair had to start climbing at the very toe of the ridge rather than shortcutting the route which is the way it is usually done.  Nice job guys!

Link to the web album to see more !

The ridge follows the right hand skyline.  Usually climbers access the ridge by the snow lead that is cut off before the ridge rises sharply.  By doing the complete ridge it adds considerably to the technical difficulties.

Geraint Au Cheval

Lots of ridge riding

Spot the climber

Our Man in Switzerland reports in

Many of you will know Xavier Founier who worked here with us in Wanaka last year.  He just wanted to make sure we did not feel too sorry for him as he enjoys one of the best ski season in a long time.

What could go wrong?

Plenty of new firewood for Rockburn Hut after the wind last week.  Luckily we do not use this hut!

Want your kids to enjoy the back country? Here's how

 Check out this link to great photos from a recent trip. This is the Upper Wilkin Valley, one of the most beautiful trips you will ever do!

 

Strange sighting in the Himalayas

I recently came across these images taken by Tony Donaldson on a trip to Cholatse.  You can see where the yak has stayed absolutely still long enough for the sun to come up and leave his frost shadow on the ground!  That is one patient animal!  Cholatse in the background.

As much as I hate over hyped ski videos I have to admit this one made me laugh.

News Flash - Summer Finally Arrives

I just saw this stunning photo come back from one of our trips.  Photo of the Upper Young Valley with Mount Awful in the back ground.  New Zealand backcountry as it should be!