Paul and Tom joined me for some adventurous early season alpine climbing on Guide’s Ridge this weekend. The three of us found great climbing conditions, exhilarating exposure and very alpine weather up on Mt. CB. We skinned up CBMR to the top of the Silver Queen Lift and swapped split-boards for crampons, harnesses and helmets. We then began our traverse across The Peel and gained Guide’s Ridge via a steep snow and rock ramp. 

We roped up as the ramp steepened and we had to negotiate several rocky steps to gain the ridge. This section provided fun moderate mixed climbing. 

Once we gained the ridge, the weather took a turn for the “alpine” as we worked through the snow and rock sections of Guide’s Ridge. Good granite, thrilling exposure and awesome climbing!

Here is a shot of Paul with the jagged knife-edge section of Guide’s Ridge below him. Earlier in the day, Paul expressed that he was hoping the weather would get wet, windy and wild. Judging by his smile, he got his wish!

We reached the summit around 3 pm. Thanks guys for a great climb. We hiked down from the summit via the non-technical East Ridge. We reached our stash of split-boards and skis an hour later and got a fun 2200 ft. ski run back to the car. A great day out in the mountains!! Look forward to climbing with you both again!

A final look back to Guide’s Ridge. This is my favorite local alpine climb. With ease of access, awesome exposure, fun mixed climbing and the best views in the Elk Mountains, it is hard to beat!

John MacKinnon