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Climbing and ... Climbing => Masters of Mud -- Pinnacles => Topic started by: Runout on January 16, 2026, 01:26:39 PM

Title: Feather Canyon approach: East vs West?
Post by: Runout on January 16, 2026, 01:26:39 PM
There are two descriptions for the approach to Feather Canyon from both East and West sides. East side looks easier and straight forward:

“Hike up the Condor Gulch Trail to the Don Genaro Overlook.  Spot the formation and contour uphill for about 400' vertical.  It may be necessary to rope up for one short easy 5th class pitch just before reaching the formation.“

Any reason not to just do the Condor Gulch approach?

Thanks
Title: Re: Feather Canyon approach: East vs West?
Post by: ryn on January 16, 2026, 04:10:31 PM
Not really a difference in hike time or difficulty between the two options. Maybe if you were worried about parking on East side vs West side but no other advantage to west approach comes to mind
Title: Re: Feather Canyon approach: East vs West?
Post by: Brad Young on January 16, 2026, 04:40:42 PM

Not really a difference in hike time or difficulty between the two options. Maybe if you were worried about parking on East side vs West side but no other advantage to west approach comes to mind


I agree.
Title: Re: Feather Canyon approach: East vs West?
Post by: NOAL on January 16, 2026, 05:11:01 PM
I would go with the East approach.  You can see the route from a distance when you leave the Condor Gulch trail at the Don Genaro overlook.  There is a photo of Bruce standing in this spot on Mountain Project.  I usually drop my pack somewhere around there.

 If you hike up from the West you will need to drop your pack up by the Smokestack.  That means hiking all the way up to the high peaks and all the way back down with a pack. More hiking with a back pack from the West. 

Also, I suggest not taking a pack on the route. 
Title: Re: Feather Canyon approach: East vs West?
Post by: Runout on January 17, 2026, 08:30:54 AM
Thanks so much.
Title: Re: Feather Canyon approach: East vs West?
Post by: mynameismud on January 18, 2026, 08:21:22 PM
I recommend bringing a beer