Sphinx Mountain: Lowe Direct; Try 4!

Just when you think you are smart and know the mountains is when they are going to humble you. And Sphinx got me good yesterday. With one attempt last November, and 2 this year already (10.4 and 10.12), I thought I knew exactly what conditions are needed for the ice to be in. So Nick and I walked out there with tons of excitement and enthusiasm only to find a grizzly bear and no ice. Well, not 'no' ice but not enough to climb. Nothing like it was on 10.4 when Sam and I were there. Every time I go out there I learn a little bit more so its never a waste of time. But the 4am mornings recently are getting annoying. The summit of Black Mountain, even though its a walk up, took me 4 or 5 tries but other than that, I have never put this much time and effort into a route. This must truly be one of those 'inspiring' routes you always hear climbers talking about. I mean, its inspiring enough to get me to walk almost 40 miles now with no climbing!

Looking up at the Lowe Route Direct from the base. The wet black streaks were supposed to be thick ice. 

Mmmm, hot tea.

4th try is not the charm.

Thats my pouty face.

The grizzly was at about the lower left hand corner of this photo.