Arriving at the Top o’ the Bruce, all climbers’ eyes will immediately be drawn to the sharp outlines of Pinnacle Ridge, marching down the mountain along the eastern edge of Whakapapa skifield. There are three main pinnacles: from north to south they are Great Pinnacle, Second Pinnacle and First Pinnacle. Some of the best climbs on the mountain are right here.
Accessibility, though, does not mean the Pinnacles do not need to be taken seriously. The peaks are over 2000 metres high and exposed to ferocious weather; the gullies can harbour extreme avalanche risks, especially after winter storms.
Geologically the oldest part of the mountain, this spectacularly sharp ridge belies the reality of Ruapehu’s volcanic origins. The ridge has long been a favoured destination for alpine climbers visiting Ruapehu, Much of the terrain is best described as mixed. The rock is generally sound – certainly better than it appears at first glance – although protection can be hard to find. A selection of slings will be useful. There are a number of ice routes on the Pinnacles, although being at a relatively low altitude they do not come into condition every year.
The complete traverse of the Pinnacle Ridge is one of the best alpine
adventures in the North Island. Here is what Geoff Sweet and John Edwards had
to say, after making the traverse in February 1954:
“The climb is varied and technically interesting over most parts, but by no
means as difficult as many people make out.
Rock is sound over practically the entire traverse and there are any number
of sound and adequate belays.
Probably the most satisfying traverse is from north to south, as this
involves the descent of the south face of the lowermost pinnacle — possibly
the crux of the climb.
It is possible to keep on the crest the entire way.”
Although nowhere extremely difficult, the traverse is a reasonably long,
exposed and continuous undertaking. Allow a full day. Nowadays the favoured
procedure is to start at the top and move down. Climbing the Great Pinnacle
direct from the Grand Gully col is not nearly as grim as it looks, but the
Traverse of the Gods is an easier alternative. Obviously, climbing the ridge
in reverse is also possible. Parts of the traverse can be completed; it is
straightforward to access or descend from the ridge via Grand Gully or Gully
2. Although it is a classic route at any time of year, the traverse is best
made in winter as a mixed route.
