The Tower is cold and grey and I'm up here all alone. The clouds swirl in and cover everything in a thin coated mixture of water and ice crystals. Having decided to go for a quick winter training solo after seeing the forecasted storm I swing with my feet in the air 2,000 feet up wondering if this was such a good idea. Having only slept about 2 hours in the last two days I am determined to get to the top before the predicted storm arrives.
It's always a gamble when you know there is weather coming in to go up on a route that is difficult to retreat from, but what better way to prove my metal, get in some needed winter training and have a little fun. If I am going to really go for my El Cap Winter solo this year I have to take advantage of every opportunity that the Sierras give me to take a beating.
This climb was no different. Having not been able to send the 5.7R section on my intended climb of Wet Denim Daydream and having wasted valuable time trying to make the route go I am now racing the clock on the West Face to get off before night sets in yet again and this time in a cloud of ice and wind.
As I pull over the top I literally feel the first snow flakes falling. My hands are starting to go numb and I'm having trouble staying awake. I strip off all the now un-neccessary gear, set up my rappel and drop back into the white icy mist.
Some time later I am back on top with all my gear quickly setting up the port-a-ledge as the wind whips the mist and snow all around.
Another successful solo and unfortunately this time I am spending the night on top... not to worry, the snow abates, the stars come out and the wind lulls me into a fitful sleep for at least a few hours until it's time to wake up, pack up and head down the rappel gully and descent. As usual my car is the only one waiting for me but this time coupled with a fresh bottle of Port... Life is good!
The Video
