This can be a time consuming and tedious process, deciding when to pull the rope out, solo, etc. Phase 1: Complete the Valhalla Traverse to the start of the Black Ice Couloir. However, those interested in attempting this Teton classic should expect the mixed bag of alpine surprises, including wet and possibly icy rock on the West Face, especially in earlier months of the season. The following description is from conditions found on August 27, 2019. At the end of the West Face, continue up to the Owen Chimney and finish on the upper Owen-Spalding route to the summit. Altogether, this combo provides about a dozen pitches of technical ice and rock climbing (some of which is pretty stout for 5.8). Timing is everything on this route, and late season, after a prolonged period of dry weather, is likely the key to finding the most favorable conditions: continuous alpine/water ice in the lower Black Ice Couloir, as well as dry rock climbing on the often wet and seeping cracks of the seldom traveled West Face.

The result is one of the great alpine climbs of the range.' When nabbed in the proper conditions, the Black Ice - West Face Combination is a surreal journey up the dark side of the Grand, and the definition of classic! The Ortenburger-Jackson guidebook states, 'This superb combination joins in a natural way two of the finest Teton routes. North Side Lowlight Tour (path of least resistance)

Black ice mod guide