McFarland (NV) by N Canyon & Ridge

pics by Harlan W.S. & Susan M (the e)
July 10, 2011

I’ve been up McFarland many times; by the west, south, and north; twice in deep snow. The north remains my favorite route. This was my first time descending the ridge—what a neat experience. Thanks to Lori and Susan, my able and amiable cohorts.

Google Earth view S of route.	24k topo	As usual, there were feral horses at the “trailhead.”
Early on the route is through pinions, mountain mahogany, and ponderosa. Look for the best horse path!	I’ve ignored this cave in the past, but Lori insisted we visit. What a nice surprise.
		Still some snow, way down At 8000’.
		My pantyline is showing! Photo courtesy of Susan M.
We extended the walk along the edge of the 400’ cliffs.	Why they are called bristlecones! Foxtails have longer spikes.	Photo from Susan M.
Charleston in distance.		The arch (Susan M photo), with Charleston through center…
And me on top of the arch! (Susan M photo)…	…and looking down 400’ through the overhanging arch! I’m getting too old for this stunt.	View NNE…
	Mack’s Peak in back…
	Susan on top, Mummy to R.
Down through the arch again!	A view of N McFarland.	Harlan looks for trouble (Susan M photo).
Lori and Susan climb back up after I nearly lead them to oblivion.	OK, back on track for ridge descent.	View back SSE from near McFarland/ North McF saddle.
	North McF to L.	View SSE back at McF.
We came across there. What was I thinking?	Las Femmes approach last chute to N McF.	Charleston to L.
	On N McF summit! McF in back R, Charleston at L.	Jolly Ranchers to tide us over.
I know Dr Ed F was here about 2007 or before, and CP in 2009, but this appears to be the 1^st register.		Random lump on ridge— we skirted R.
	View back S on endless ridge.	Lori’s truck is out there to R!
Guzzler for game birds.	Almost at the truck!