Mine Gulch
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| | Difficulty:3A IV R (v5a1 IV) Raps:10, max ↨80ft
Red Tape:No permit required Shuttle:None | |||||||||||
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34.3509, -117.7522
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Introduction[edit]
Mine Gulch drops sharply down the east face of Mount Baden Powell for nearly 5,000ft. The upper part of the canyon (roughly above Bighorn Mine's elevation) is loose and dangerous, with rocks falling down all year long. The lower section of the canyon provides the goods with smooth chutes, interesting anchors, and slightly less loose rock. One would do well to find a way in from Bighorn Mine, avoiding the upper section.
Approach[edit]
Hike to the summit of Baden Powell from the Vincent Gap parking lot. We dropped in around the Wally Waldron Tree, just a little short of the summit.
Descent[edit]
The first big chunk of the descent involves scree skiing and downclimbing loose ground. A helmet is suggested as rocks fall from far above and are obviously funneled down the face into the couloir. Several short rappels off sometimes subpar anchors are in this area.
Far down, things clean up and waterflow takes care of some of the quality issues. Interesting rappels off pretty decent anchors bring you down the rest of the way.
Exit[edit]
Hike to East Fork and take that north to the Vincent Gap Trail. Have your map handy, as it is easy to lose this trail, especially in the dark. Take this back to Vincent Gap and your car.