Brad Blythe joined Mark for 4 days of climbing in the Dolomites. Our original plan was the Wetterhorn and Eiger, but poor weather in the northern Alps suggested a change of plans.

We started with a climb of the SE ridge of the Hexenstein.

Half way up the route, the climb passes under a large chockstone.

Comfortable belay ledge.

Looking east from the summit of the Hexenstein.

The following day we had hoped to climb the super-classic Delagokante in the Vajolet Towers. Though the forecast looked reasonable, the weather proved to be generally dreadful, with occasional rain and spitting snow showers.

We were forced to retreat one (or more) of the numerous refugios in the area for refreshment and warmth.

The following day was much better and we gave it another go.

Brad on the Delagokante.

He seems to be enjoying himself.

On our descent, however, we were held up by a rescue in progress. Another team, off-route on the neighboring tower fell some 20 meters and required a helicopter evacuation. He heard rumors that injuries were largely limited to a broken leg.

Looking back up and the Vajolet Towers. Mouse over to see the line.

On our last day, we traversed the Spigolo del Pollice, Cinque Dita, the middle group in this photo.

The NE Ridge of the Thumb is one of the best climbs in the area.

Almost on the summit of the "Thumb".

From the Thumb we rappelled into the notch and continued on over the main summit and remaining "fingers".

Looking back a the Thumb from the main summit.

Only one more pitch to the summit of the main group.

We continued on down the South Ridge, over all the other fingers. Finally we had a pleasant walk back down to the car at the Sella Pass.