The path down from the saddle was much more pleasant this way. Below me Ian and Paul wait to help me stop, and contemplate Newton's first two laws.  

 
The view back across the flats showed us the tent was still hours away. Click on the picture to enlarge.

 

Paul traverses the last icy slope on our journey back.

 

Rain and heavy fog made the rest of the trip back "interesting", especially The Ledge.

 
Tents are wonderful things - it is amazing how good they can look. Click on the picture to enlarge.

 

It rained off and on all night, and in the morning we were still in a cloud. Brad prepares to break camp.

 
Spencer considers a full day of downhill.

 

Our last high view of the mountains, just leaving base camp. Click on the picture to enlarge.

 
We head down through the cloud, taking a different path down than the way we came.

 

More downhill, very different from the relatively smooth Colorado switchbacks I am used to.

 
Misha, Jafar, and company led the way.

 

We approach a cut that would take us down to the next level.

 
We felt better and better as oxygen increased.

 

Some of the prettiest country I have seen - a geologist's dream. Click on the picture to enlarge.

 
Sunlight came and went frequently. Click on the picture to enlarge.

 

I took a strategic position at the back of the pack.

 
Yet another cut we prepare to descend. Click on the picture to enlarge. 

 

We strive to reach the valley. My tricky knee, which had been "talking to me" the day before, began singing an opera.

 

 

 

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