DSC03756 Photo courtesy Bill Bushnell

Mammoth Trip, 2026

September 14

La Escuela



Bill suggests I could scramble up what looks like class 3 on the left to approach the draw from above, and after looking at it, I do just that. Even from the ledge above it, it's at arm's length as I lean over the edge feeling uncomfortable, and I manage to dislodge it with my fingertips. After I scramble back down the class 3, Bill points out that I had forgotten to put my helmet back on before scrambling back up.

After resting briefly, I consider climbing one of the other routes which might be clearer to see the entirety of from the ground. But as I look up, I look directly into the sun which is breaking over the top of the cliff, so now I can't really see anything, and climbing into it won't do. -F.