Stealing the Swiss Arete

It was the first week of November and the high peaks of the Sierra were already wearing a substantial and scintillating blanket of snow. At first scout, it seemed that my goal of climbing the Swiss Arete, on 14,153-foot Mount Sill, the second highest peak in the Palisades Range, would have to wait another year. Even with years of experience, I knew I was alone in winter conditions and that while attempting an ascent I would have little margin for error. But the day was spectacular. An invigorating stroll a little ways into the high country to see the Palisade Glacier and the granite spine of the Sierra Crest started out as just an innocent hike.

Read More