West Ridge/Powell Traverse

*NOTE THAT THIS IS CLASS 4 GOING FROM MCHENRYS TO POWELL WITH A RAPPEL. TRAVELING FROM POWELL TO MCHENRY'S WILL REQUIRE A PITCH OF 5.Easy TRAD.

The ridge from McHenry's Peak starts as a broad and mostly level walk west towards Powell. As the ridge begins to narrow, you will find a downward sloping ramp on the south side of the ridge that leads to a narrow and exposed section of ridge (Class 4) crossing over several steep gullies on the south side. Upon reaching the westernmost gully just before the notch between McHenry's and Powell, downclimb slightly to a ledge from which to rappel. This gully is somewhat loose and probably climbs 5.Easy. At the time we rappelled, the webbing at the rappel was starting to look a bit weathered and worn. We made two short rappels on a 60m rope, but a 70m rope should get you down to the ledge from which you can easily downclimb to the notch. If continuing on to the summit of Powell, traverse across the southeast side of Powell ~100 feet below the notch. Ascend an easy Class 3 gully to the summit ridge for a short and easy walk to the summit of Powell Peak.

Anchor webbing, a rappel ring, and a rope (60+m).