Grand Teton via Upper Exum Ridge — July 2021 Summit Report¶

The Grand Teton's Upper Exum Ridge is one of North America's finest alpine rock climbs. July 4th brought perfect conditions and a festive atmosphere — several guided parties on the route, everyone in good spirits. The climbing on Teton granite is superb: solid, featured, and with positions that make you feel like you're on top of the world. The summit views of Jackson Hole 2,300m below are extraordinary.

Trip Overview¶

Mountain: Grand Teton (4199m) Date: July 04, 2021 Duration: 2 days Party Size: 2 Outcome: Summit

Conditions¶

Weather: Independence Day weather was perfect — clear blue skies and warm temperatures. The Wall Street couloir was dry and in excellent condition. Snow: No snow on the Exum Ridge. Some patches in north-facing gullies. Temperature: -2°C to 18°C Wind: Light, 5-15 km/h

Difficulty Assessment¶

The Upper Exum Ridge is the classic route on the Grand Teton — sustained 5.5 climbing on excellent Teton granite with incredible exposure. The crux pitch (the V pitch) is a 20m finger crack directly above a thousand-foot drop.