The Firn Line

The Northwest Face of Kichatna Spire


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Today we head into the Kichatna Spires - a compact subrange of monolithic granite towers located just south of Denali.

In early June, North American climbers Graham Zimmerman, Dave Allfrey and Whit Magro, headed into the Kichatna’s - their sites set on a new line up the beautiful northwest face of the ranges namesake - Kichatna Spire.

Although many parties attempting lines in the Kichatna’s get hammered by bad weather and poor conditions, the trio was blessed by the mountain gods - which allowed them to make a first ascent in an enjoyable and safe manner.

The climb, which the team named ‘The Pace of Comfort’ - takes a steep line left of the 1979 Embick and Bridwell route, and goes at Grade VI  5.10, A3+, M6, 70° snow.

Here’s Graham Zimmerman’s account of this amazing journey.

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Notes

Special thanks to Graham Zimmerman

More info about 'The Pace Of Comfort' on Kichatna Spire:
Explorers Web
Climbing

Produced by Evan Phillips
Editing & Sound Design by Pod Peak

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