Ramp - Wedge Hike
by Reg Buchanan, Scree 7/81

Twelve MCA members departed Glenn Alps parking lot under threatening skies on Sat. morning.  Participating were Bill Watson, Don Hansen, Bill Wakeland, Jim Morrison, Eileen Foley, Brigitte Ressel, Jan Scott, Mark Kinlay, Marilyn Kann, John Nevin, Marty Bassett, and Reg Buchanan.

Crossing the south fork of Campbell Creek posed no problem.  The water was about 12 inches deep and the stream about 10 feet wide.  Old tennis shoes-were used to cross this and the marsh area beyond.  On the approach to the valley the party split between the valley floor and the ridge to move up the valley.  The ridge is decidedly the easiest way to move up and down the valley.  Several large snow fields were crossed.  A campsite was set up near water about 3/4 way up the valley.  The day hikers went ahead and climbed the Wedge (4660') while the overnighters set up camp.  The overnight group then followed up the Wedge.  All members reached the summit cairn and signed the register.  The climb is non-technical and was free of snow and ice.  A cold strong wind and horizontal rain encouraged a rapid descent.  Bill Watson  Bill Wakeland and John Nevin crossed the valley and climbed the Ramp (5240') under rapidly changing weather conditions.  Bill Watson said visibility at the summit of the Ramp was 20'.  Bill Wakeland and John Nevin who reached the summit 20 min. after Bill had departed were greeted with blue skies and a panoramic view.

On Sunday morning the group broke camp and headed out.  Bill Watson and Bill Wakeland took a side trip and climbed O'Malley Peak (5105') on the way out.  It was an enjoyable trip and good company for all who participated.

This trip is well within bounds for most novice hikers and climbers as long as you are properly equipped, wind and rain gear, tents and stoves that will function under windy conditions, and wool hats, gloves, etc, are a must.