The Kong

This beautiful mass of rock sits about 1/2 mile below Elk Lake and was the object of our efforts for several years during the mid 70s. The 4th class approach goes straight up the snow filled gulley and then pretty much follows the line of trees to the biv ledge at base of the grand dihedral. After several trips we decided that the approach is best done when there is still snow in the gulley. We never quite figured out how to handle the large "H" crack near the top of this rock mass. The left side of the "H" would, without a doubt require bolts (I don't do bolts) and the right side could use some 10" tube chocks. We considered cutting a log to use as a big tube chock but we didn't have the tools. To my knowledge, this route has never been repeated. If you camp near Elk Lake be aware that there are bear dens in this area. Generally, they are no problem at all unless you are careless with your food. We learned this lesson very well on our first trip into this area. South Fork of the Payette River, Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho.