On the approach of Mt. Conness

On the approach to the summit plateau of Mt. Conness. Instead of taking the regular East Ridge route, we went up a 'direct couloir' from Alpine Lake. The slope steepened up to 55+ degrees. Near the top, there was a near-vertical snowy headwall that we climbed around on the left. This involved some easy 5th mixed climbing in crampons for a few moves. Fun variation! - July 2, 2006