View NW from high on the slopes of Angelus Peak
After waiting a few weeks for a good weather window and a stable snowpack the call was made. Eight of us from the Nelson and Marlborough Tramping Clubs started the climb up the Pinchgut on a stunning August morning hoping we would encounter favourable snow conditions along the higher sections of Robert Ridge past Julius Summit. Whilst not great, who was going to be picky when the conditions were so benign! After approx 6 hours we reached the hut and had a relaxing night with a great fire in the potbelly to keep the cold at bay......
A 5am wakeup call on day two had us starting our ascent of Angelus Peak just after 6am. A firm crust had us traversing to the east of Hinapouri Tarn and climbing up the north spur of Angelus. We had unlimited visibility on this blue-bird morning and with no wind we warmed up fairly fast as we gained altitude. The last 100m pinch proved too much for my light weight Inov-8 Rocklites boots which didn't provide me the confidence to proceed. I had reached my limit when using crampons in combition with these Rocklites. The rest of the crew proceeded up to the summit to check out the 360 degree views. Now it was a quick descend back to the hut, an hour break and then back out via Robert Ridge to the carpark. Well worth the effort when you have good weather and snow conditions, not so much if you don't have the conditions on your side. Thanks Andrea for orgaising a great trip........
