nearing summit

Beyond the tree line I come up against a sheer near-vertical wall (pant pant!) but -- if I’m even in the right place! -- one guide book says: “From here [6000 feet], either bear right under the summit block to the ridge or go straight up through a narrow chute.”

So, I’m tired, why not take the shorter route? I drop my two walking sticks and start climbing up this wall, 30 or 40 feet high and kinda tricky to find hand and footholds at times.

Whew, now on top and just below the summit I think and above the ridge so I think that must be Seattle over there and I signal everyone with my mirror!! (see the light reflection on this tree):