The Open Book- Garnet Canyon

I climbed The Open Book with a friend Gena on Sunday. The approach is immense, and very similar to the hike to Surprise Lake that Phil and I did back in November when we first visited Jackson. I tried in vain to keep up with Gena on the totally uphill approach. The Open Book is a classic climb of 5 pitches with several nice cracks. The weather forecast was a little sketchy, so as usual, there were moments on the climbed when a raging storm seemed imminent. But, the rain appeared to stay south of us, and we were lucky to have cloud cover to keep things cool. I also felt comforted knowing some climbing rangers were behind us on the same route. We were surprised to see a lot of snow on the descent, and we were very careful as we made our way down to Ampitheater Lake. A roll down the steep hill and into the icy lake would have been more than unpleasant. Considering how tired I felt on the hike in, I was pleasantly surprised to feel "not that bad" on the way out. But, the next morning, I felt pretty exhausted. I can only hope that next time I do that approach, I will be a little more fit. Trouble is, there are lots more climbs that start higher in the canyon- meaning longer approach and steeper. Ugh! Well, it is all part of climbing in the Tetons. Simultaneously insanely gorgeous, difficult, scary, exhausting, and exhilarating!

I am also adding a few pics from a hike near the house that Jasmine and I did up to the saddle below Taylor Mountain. It is a great hike and I think my new favorite!