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Aug 29, 2018 — A few days ago, I got rained out attempting this route by ascending from the Flattop Mountain Trail, and bailing via Andrews Glacier. I really wanted to bag Taylor Peak and Powell Peak, and since my attempt was only a few days ago, I knew I could shorten the route by ascending Andrews Glacier rather than doing Flattop Mountain again. So, Austin and I set out on official trails up to Andrews Glacier, starting from the Bear Lake Trailhead. If you arrive early enough, you could start at Glacier Gorge Trailhead, but it was already packed when we got there.
From the base of Andrews Glacier, ascend the south side of the glacier. Though we did not have any ice gear, I would recommend bringing some. We were fortunate that the glacier could be ascended on Class 3 rock in the crevasse where the ice had melted adjacent to the cliff face. Earlier in the year, or dependent on how nature melts the ice, this might not be possible without gear. From the saddle of Otis Peak and Taylor Peak, head toward Taylor Peak on Class 2 boulder hopping, where you can see a gorgeous close-up view of Longs Peak, and the mountains and lakes surrounding this incredible alpine ridgeline. You can also look down and see Sky Pond below in the cirque. From Talyor Peak, continue down to the saddle with Powell Peak. Be sure the weather is still favorable. It's a long trek back from Powell Peak if the weather turns sour, and you are very, very exposed for a long time up here.
Powell Peak is another summit with incredible views, including the cliff face of McHenrys Peak. We went slightly farther south past the summit and got an aerial view of Lake Powell below, really amazing. Return the way you came, or continue through the alpine meadow until you pick up the Flattop Mountain Trail, rather than descending Andrews Glacier.
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Hire/refer me as a web developer or send me a few bucks if you find my site useful. I'm not sponsored, so all fees are out-of-pocket and my time preparing trip reports is unpaid. I really appreciate it!