07 December 2008

Old ice, Otira Valley

Old ice, Otira Valley
By midsummer, only sun-eroded ice remains, the consolidated debris of winter avalanches slowly dripping away and forming the headwaters of the Otira River. Jono and I climb Rolleston twice — once by the popular Otira Slide route to check the descent route; then a couple of days later via the Otira Face. Days to remember.

All content © 2008 Pete McGregor

4 comments:

Emma said...

Is it okay to just say that I really like this one? It's completely visceral, it makes me think of the excitement of going hiking as a child.

pohanginapete said...

Of course it's okay, Emma :^) You and H and Luke would have such a wonderful time there on a day like that.

Relatively Retiring said...

Wonderful textures and patterns. I feel as if I'm there - although the Otira Slide route may be a bit beyond me!

pohanginapete said...

RR, the walk to this point at the head of the Otira valley is straightforward, and a lovely walk for the moderately fit. The Slide is a different matter; although not difficult, it can be dangerous particularly in winter, when it's prone to avalanches. People have also come to grief by bum-sliding on the descent and losing control.