Maggots.
I think my new favorite area is the Pine Creek drainage/etc. Pics from 5/31. Snow is spotty depending on exposure about 10,500 or so. Climbed to just over 12,000 on this little peak overlooking Royce lakes. Didn't have to walk on snow but for a few steps.
Stopped 200 feet from summit (12,200ish?) on this peak in the middle/right. Not sure the name of it. Exposed 4th class with a non-climber and no rope = call it a day.
start to the fun 4th across the notch from our stopping point
I think this is Royce Peak in the background, unnamed peak on the left and right? If only a certain someone were still around to mis-ID them...he "knows" the area well enough.
From our stopping point just before a notch/4th class finish. Merriam and the Royce lakes, I believe. Last picture is looking west-northwest from the same spot - crazy Israeli Scientist was impress.
On our way down, we ran into a man with interesting facial hair, smallish in stature, with a huge pack/fly fishing gear...could it be?!?!?!?
False alarm.