"Pilgrim" is a 750m long ice & mixed route through the centre of the Sheila Face on Aoraki/Mt Cook first climbed by Caleb Jennings & Kim Ladiges in 2018.
NZAT team members Sooji and Alastair, with friend Ruari Macfarlane, attempted "Pilgrim" on the Sheila Face of Aoraki/Mt Cook in excellent ice conditions during September 2022. Unfortunately they were forced to retreat during the ascent due to an injury caused by ice fall which required a rescue.
"Pilgrim" is an incredible line with exceptional steep ice climbing on the lower half, but it is a serious climb due to it's length and susceptibility to rime fall during the late morning and afternoon, and the long descent back to Empress Hut via the Summit Rocks, Linda Ice Shelf and Green Saddle.
Alpine climbing is dangerous and there is always the chance for misadventure. Going mountaineering is to embrace a certain amount of chaos. Things can go awry, and it is this reality that makes the challenge real. We were humbled by this experience and it was yet another reminder of how much respect & humility we must pay to the powerful mountain arena. Stay safe out there!
Route beta: alpineteam.co.nz/2018/new-rou...
alpineteam.co.nz/2020/pilgrim...