[MCR] Sir Sandford area GMC

[Public Mountain Conditions Report]

Just got back from a week at the Alpine Club GMC in the Mt Sir Sandford area.
The camp is located at the toe of the Haworth glacier. There has been 
two weeks of clear  hot weather until Friday night when we had a 
significant rain event which lasted well into Saturday afternoon.

There were no freezes during the first two weeks. First week parties 
encountered some  isothermal conditions that turned parties around on 
some objectives but by week 2 things had consolidated somewhat making 
safe climbs of routes that were touchy the first week.
In general travel conditions were quite good. Still a lot of snow on 
the glaciers though the toe of the Haworth was quickly changing to ice.

Late this week a party did a recon on Sir Sandford and figured the 
route was in shape, however with continuing warm conditions it would 
be best for cooler temps before a competent party attempt the route.
Ascents were made of Silvertip, Belvedere, Azimuth Peak, Palisade 
Mountain (via east ridge to 2nd to last summit), Redan Peak, Alpina 
Dome, Picture Dome, Vidette Mtn and Citadel Peak.

The best access to Silvertip and Belvedere is via the shoulder on the 
left side of the Silvertip tongue. Though there is now a bridge in 
place for the camp, the creek could only be crossed now in the flood 
plain/lake at the toe of the glacier. (probably knee deep and sandy) 
Then a short and somewhat loose meadowy-bouldery rising traverse 
gains access to the left side of the Silvertip glacier which then 
easily leads to either the SE ridge of Silvertip or Belvedere Peak. 
(Both these peaks are excellent and recommended objectives.)

The river below the camp and at the hut is presently un-crossable 
with very high water.

Most of the ascents are quite straight forward, quick and close by. 
Some access will change as the snow continues to quickly melt back 
exposing loose rock and gravel, though alternatives will no doubt be found.
Routes on the west side of the Adamants will shortly come into shape 
with the continuing warm weather. As well there still looked to be 
quite a bit of snow down in Moberly Pass.

A spectacular area.

Peter Amann
Mountain Guide.




Peter Amann
pamann at incentre.net
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