North Route

Approach

There are two approaches from Dailey prairie. At the north end of the prairie, where the Cavnaugh Creek 7.5 USGS Map has a trail marked at elevation 3239ft ascend the trail northeast and then south until the trail ends. Continue southeast through forest. The second approach follows the approach to the West Ridge until the trees become scrubby. At this point leave the ridge and traverse to the north (left). Both approaches continue from here where you will want to follow an ascending traverse below two cliff buttresses until reaching a slope leading directly to the summit.

Route Description

The North Route up the North Twin Sister is a straight forward scramble. Until late season the slope is snow covered and makes for a pleasant accent and a quick descent. The route is steep enough that a novice will feel like they are doing "real climbing" yet the snow conditions for most of the year make self arrests relatively simple. Once you've managed to find the north side of the mountain the route description boils down to "go up until you're on the summit". There are no glaciers, bergshrunds, or moat problems. Over all, it is a very pleasant snow climb and it is the standard descent route for other routes up the mountain.

Essential Gear

The North Route, under ideal conditions, is a simple snow scramble. You will want an ice axe and good boots. A rope and crampons are not needed except for on the rare occasions that the snow isn't soft enough for good footing or an easy self arrest. If a rope is needed however, due to poor conditions or lack of confidence, consider not climbing the route.

Miscellaneous Info

If you have information about this route that doesn't pertain to any of the other sections, please add it here.

Images

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