Most of the group made the "scramble summit" of Wintour Ridge to enjoy lunch and outstanding views in +25c temperatures. We were back at the cars around 4.30pm after a 7 1/4 hour day. Although 3 had done this trip in about 2002, none remembered any details so it was interesting for all. We gained the north ridge via some ugly scrambling, a route that was improved upon for descent and I (at least) found the ridge exposure more than I remembered. The technical summit block was admired but not attemped.

We started the very steep ascent up through the woods about 150m along King Creek. Although this worked, later investigation showed easier routes direct from highway 40 a few hundred metres south of King Creek. When above treeline, we decided to attenpt the NE ridge from a northerly aspect. Since this involved some ugly scrambling up loose gullies, one member, who had forgotten his helmet, turned back and later observed a much easier approach from a more southerly aspect before returning to the car. The rest of us gained the north ridge and after a water break started southwards along it. A small cliff band was downclimbed facing inwards, and all made a high point about 12.45pm.Two decided that this was enough.

Shortly after this the ridge narrowed with sufficent exposure for most of the remaining 4 to straddle a 5 metre horizontal section before some exhilarating ridge walking brought us to the Scranblers summit for a 1.15pm lunch. A fall either side of this ridge would mean death (150m? cliffs). Spectacular views to the accompaniment of Harley Davisons.

The descent was mostly a reversal of the ascent except that we found some easier south facing scree to reach treeline. Descent through the forest to King Creek was tolerable and the cool water refreshing. The shade air temperature was +28c. Thanks to Susan, Gary, John, Zorica, Clifton, Damian for joining me C&S David. Stats: 10 km, 800m vertical in just over 7 very hot hours. This was a spectacularly visual trip for those not afraid of some exposure. For me: dry and calm conditions would be essential.