Vinstradalen, Oppdal

Passopp was too good to pass by. It looked in fine condition and not particularly intimidating for a WI5. We were making our first visit to Vinstradalen and there seemed little need to explore beyond the first handful of routes, given their close proximity and quality. Ice conditions, as with the previous day, would prove to be excellent.

The first pitch of Passopp was sustained, following a vague groove, with nothing overly steep. Plus the placements had been softened from previous ascents. Maybe closer to 4+. The second pitch, finishing up the top tier, was possibly harder than normal due to the right hand end not having formed. Instead the taller ice towards the centre offered the only passage and proved steep for the first few metres before it gradually eased back. Not much easier than the first pitch and probably Anna's hardest lead. Good effort. A really fine route.

Beneath Passopp (WI5)

First pitch of Passopp

Start of the second pitch

It didn't look as though we were going to top Passopp but neighbouring Skila (WI3+) looked potentially a fun outing. It aesthetically filled a narrow gorge and again proved easy for the grade in light of the short steps broken up with easy ground. The sun struck the ice at mid-height and made things all together feel like spring. Above the route the hillside was littered with fallen trees, loose ground, and exposed roots. What remained looked suspect and so we descended on Abalakovs. No more time for climbing but certainly somewhere I'll be returning to in order to explore a little further up the valley.

Skila (WI3+)

The initial step on Skila

Last step of ice before the top

Hillside above Skila - not ideal for abseils