Mount Birdwood attempt III – August 12, 2007

Scrambling with Mark.

Low energy levels on both our parts, too much snow on the route (any snow at all is too much on this route), and most importantly a vicious west wind – all the ingredients for our third failed attempt at reaching the top of this beautiful mountain. We backed down before the climbing started.  

 

On the approach trail; Commonwealth Peak (left), Pig's Tail (immediately left of 
Birdwood), and Birdwood (right); from this angle it's hard to believe that 
Pig's Tail is about 50 vertical metres higher than Commonwealth

 

Looking longingly at Birdwood

 

The south ridge of Smuts doesn't look so formidable from this angle

 

Now it looks formidable! The Birdwood Lakes, "Smutwood Peak
(just left of centre), and Mount Smuts (right)

 

Looking to the northwest

 

Another longing look at Birdwood as we leave

 LOG