Haven't been in the mountains for a while, just moved back to the area and looking to get into something mellow-ish for a weekend. Considering Ritter or Agassiz. Anyone know the condition of the Ritter SE Glacier? Anyone done both who can compare approach/difficulty (I'm a bit out of shape right now). Planning to make it a two-day trip. Thanks!

Ritter is considerably harder than Agassiz. Agassiz can easily be done in a day, Ritter less easily. Agassiz has no route finding issues, Ritter is more challenging in this respect by any of its routes. I don't know what others think but I feel these two climbs are not in the same ballpark.

Romain wrote:I don't know what others think but I feel these two climbs are not in the same ballpark.

Both are good peaks with excellent views.

Ritter (SE "glacier" route):
Little more route finding capablity. Rolling granite stairs above Lake Ediza
possible rockfall in the gully of your choice (especially if climbers above you)
Trekking poles useful on and above glacier. Ice axe/crampons may be useful in early season.
Snow cups on glacier a little harder to navigate in late season
Longer hiking approach from Agnew Meadows?
hiker shuttle requirements during summer
Look down from the summit on John Muir's epic ("I must fall..") ascent route..

Agassiz (dog route from Bishop Pass)
Talus slog up from the Pass
No route finding issues at all. Just slog up the sucker.
Get inspired to bag some of those more difficult Palisades peaks. Cowabunga!

Either way, you can't lose. Hell, climb both..
Best,
JM

If you're really out of shape, Ritter as a two-trip might be a bit of stretch.

Thanks for the responses. I think we'll hit Agassiz.