On the Avalanche Gulch route near Thumb Rock, the snow bridging on the Konwakiton Glacier behind Thumb Rock is beginning to collapse. On the morning of June 7 around 8am, many climbers were using the pictured bridge during their ascent. On descent from the summit at approximately 11am, the bridge was observed collapsed, likely due to the warming of the day and a high volume of climber traffic. Generally speaking, the snow behind Thumb Rock is an unstable glacial feature where taking a break should be avoided to reduce exposure time in the event of catastrophic movement/collapse. It is much safer to take a break on the rock before or after crossing the snow behind Thumb Rock.
Thumb Rock. Note the tiny hikers on the ridge.
2 things I have never had an interest in. Climbing a mountain and descending into a cave. Nope, not gonna do it. oh yeah, there's jumping out of planes too.
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