Winter climb of Giant with Zach, Joe and Rich
January 2006

We pack in the pouring rain	the rain ends as we meet near the North Boquet	we set camp
and return past the raging N. Boquet to eat at Noonmark diner	returning to sleep on the wet snow	we make an early departure
we shuttle cars and gear	and hit the trail in the morning glow	passed old growth
and icy rivers	we climb	and cross little streams
reaching the junction to Owl Head Lookout	a nice icy climb	nice to be on top
with a great view
Joe sees beautiful sky ahead	and begins the icy descent	down we go
to a glimpse back at Owl Head Lookout	always adjustments to make	a long stretch through the woods
has one break at high bank	which is a sandy/boulder bank	with good views of the east slide on Giant
more crossings	a solid snack in the lean-to	Rich has an aggressive moment with the ice axe
and the serious climb begins	lots of ice	and some wondering of where the trail goes
we reach a shoulder with the summit in sight	the views begin	nearing the summit
with nice view from an outcrop
nearly to the top	icy vegetation	Cliff smiles on the top
some snacks and toe warmers	Lovely views and blue sky	Is there a hint of tired in Joe's face?
we pose	Rich is ready	the descent begins
last glimpse of the gleaming summit	hiking through summit brush	and the icy trees
the descent is serious, but fast	a fixed binding to retie	a bit of extra water
a jump	Zach rests at High Bank	as does Rich
and Joe	and Cliff	Giant hides the sun
we hike quickly, but soon need headlamps	we break camp in the morning	Rich could use a nice warm beer
we head out	the river has almost returned to normal	from how it was 2 days ago