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Calgary
211 Posts |
Posted - 08/08/2012 : 6:53 PM
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Does anyone know if it is possible to go from the toe of French glacier to the toe of Robertson glacier via the col between the two valley's? From limited views I had from Piggy Plus col it looked possible from the French Creek side, but I have no idea what lies on the Robertson side.
I have no experience with glacier travel whatsoever, so doing the traverse via Haig glacier is not an option, but this less icy still seems quite fun if possible. |
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50 Posts |
Posted - 08/08/2012 : 7:48 PM
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| Go look, problem solved. |
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 Kootenay Bud
2695 Posts |
Posted - 08/08/2012 : 8:07 PM
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Take a look at Google Earth. If you mean the col at GR178224, it might be kinda nasty 'cos you'll be going up and down the sides of the valley that the retreating glaciers on both sides have scoured. Typically, those aren't very pleasant to go up. It looks pretty steep.
Years ago we climbed Piggy Plus which is the high point on the ridge just north, but I've no recollection what it was like south of Piggy Plus. I've a vague recollection that getting up Piggy Plus was pretty scrambly. |
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the mountain parks, Alberta
Canada
102 Posts |
Posted - 08/09/2012 : 3:45 PM
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It might be possible, however it seems that coming down the Robertson side about the bottom 3rd there are cliffs so you would have to traverse loose looking steep scree to "skiers" left if I recall which i'm pretty sure would put you on the glacier on the only crevassed area. This is very hazy memory though so you are on your own. I was looking more from a skiers perspective and there are some gnarly looking steep tight lines that break through the lower cliffs. I would think they would be not doable without snow, cliffy steep and loose. It would probably be best for you to hike in there and take a look and if doable go up from that side if you are already familiar with the French side.
The French side, just a bit before the toe of the glacier it looks pretty reasonable for an experienced scrambler. However it could be a very sketchy area coming in blind from the other side for some one without solid route finding ability and general mountain sense.
I would be quite curious to know if you ever do it. |
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Calgary
211 Posts |
Posted - 08/10/2012 : 10:35 AM
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Thanks everyone for the ideas.
I went up French Creek yesterday and had intended to explore at least that side of the col, but it turns out it's beyond my abilities. The scree is thin and incredibly lose in the area and likely isn't safe for anyone. There was a snow slope heading to the top, however, but without the skills or gear to self arrest a slip I didn't chance that either.
Here's a photo of the col: http://mattclay.zenfolio.com/french_creek/h37e40f21#h37e40f21.
I'll post a trip report shortly. |
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Finally stopping that crazy suffering that is ice, climbing to concentrate on great ski tours!
3523 Posts |
Posted - 08/10/2012 : 11:37 AM
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Kudos for not heading up somewhere you felt beyond your ability to proceed with reasonable safety!!
Thanks for the pics, and thanks for reporting your findings. |
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Topic |
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Hike from French to Robertson glacier?
