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Russell / Carillon Pass

Posted: Thu Sep 27, 2012 3:25 pm
by RoguePhotonic
This pass is also known as Russell Col

I have only climbed this pass from the North side so anyone feel free to add South side information.

GENERAL OVERVIEW: This pass leads from The North Fork Lone Pine Creek of the Whitney Zone to Tulainyo Lake and the entire Wallace Creek Drainage.

CLASS/DIFFICULTY: Class 2-3 - The North sides upper portion includes about 50 feet of intermixed class 3 meaning climbing on and off class 3 sections of rock.

LOCATION: This pass is the border line of Sequoia National Park and Inyo National Forest / John Muir Wilderness areas. It also is the border of the Mount Whitney Zone.

Russell / Carillon Pass on HST Map

ELEVATION: 13,300

USGS TOPO MAP (7.5'): Mt. Whitney

ROUTE DESCRIPTION: The base of the North side has no route finding problems. It's a mess of mostly stable talus hoping which is quite easy. Aim right for the middle of the ridge until you reach a mix of class 3 rock. From here many options are available so choose the best route within your comfort level. There is some loose rock so stay aware of where you place your hands and feet. The South side of the pass at the top is a sandy walk.

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I climbed up just to the right of the small snow patch above but I climbed down along a mix of shelves to it's left.

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Some class 3 rock:

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South side:

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