Thunderbolt to Sill traverse

[Urmas]

You know you're headed for some spiritual experiences when you pass Temple Crag! The hike in to base camp at Sam Mack Meadow is a fine excursion in its own right.



I pause by a glacial tarn to reflect on the day ahead.



The North Palisade group emerges from the distance as I approach Sam Mack Lake.



Peaks from right to left: Agassiz, Winchell, Thunderbolt and Starlight. The climbing starts in the Winchell col and ascends the northwest ridge of Thunderbolt. The summit block of Thunderbolt is a cool boulder problem, with the first move being the hardest. I use my rope to rappel, then keep it coiled for the remainder of the trip.





The summit of North Pal is on the right. Polemonium is on the left, with the U Notch in the center.



Rising above the U Notch is the Chimney Variation (5.4-5.6) on North Pal, with a climber standing at the top.



Mt Sill from North Pal.



Looking back from Mt Sill at Polemonium, North Pal, Starlight, and Thunderbolt.



Gayley and Sill. The descent from Sill is along the the sun-shadow line diagonaling down and left from the right hand shoulder. The Swiss Arete is clearly seen on the left.



Left to right: the V Notch, U Notch, North Pal, and Starlight.The most hazardous part of the trip is seen here. The descent crosses the eastern edge of the Palisade Glacier which consists of loose rubble over glacial ice. It's best to traverse right (facing downhill) as soon as possible to find more stable talus.



Twelve hours after leaving camp, I catch my last glimpse of my route on the skyline. It's been a wonderful day in the cathedral of the Sierra! I take one last look, put away my camera, and walk slowly down to the meadow.