[Editor’s Note: The Rock Creek Access is discussed on Page 293 of the book [(C)(1)]. Kevin’s contribution provides visual supplementation for the Rock Creek Approach and new information covering the Howard Traverse Access Route.]

From my experience, it is rare that a person finds the North Face on their first attempt. After a day of wandering around, you will get to a high point and look around and see what you need to do the next time you wander into the range. The map below should help you orientate yourself for both approach routes. The (A) route is the Mike Howard Traverse which is a technical approach and (B) is the longer but cleaner approach up Rock Creek.

The (A) route is the Mike Howard Traverse and (B) is a longer, cleaner approach up Rock Creek.

We used my favorite way to approach the North Face, which was pioneered by Mike Howard and is known as the Howard Traverse.