June 3, 2012, Alpental

Jill and I met Eric at the main Alpental parking area.  After catching up for a bit, we started climbing together, but he quickly outpaced us €“ we go very slowly.  I used my ski crampons for the whole climb because my right leg is still only about 75% back to normal, and they increase my chances of success, i.e. not slipping and falling.  We climbed to the trees just below the rock band at the top of Lower International which was a gain of 1135VF.  This bowl is about 150€™ from the base of Upper International.  On the way up it sprinkled for a few minutes.  The area below the trees was very steep with bits of avy debris so we did big fat turns.  Just below the cutover trail from the high-speed lift area we skied an old cattrack that was melted out and in great shape and made for some nice turns.  We had a good ski down until we hit the lower area which was kind of 'sticky€™ in places because of the pollen.  As I continue to climb and ski my right arm and leg are getting stronger.  Trips like this will help pass the time while I wait for a call from MN saying that it€™s okay to go ahead with the procedure.