We reached the base of the wall on skins. Above, we took turns to set a trail in more exposed terrain, but the snow depth decreased with the height. Soon the crampons teeth crunched and stuck into the ice. The last meters before the summit had to be covered, walking on hard, frozen snow, and each step had to be taken with utmost care. The reward for the tension that accompanied us during the ascent was an amazing view of the entire Altai massif, which appeared to our eyes. In the west high peaks reigned, with the highest peak in the region – 4506 meters high Balucha. To the east, towards Mongolia, the terrain gradually became flatter. As we looked to the north, we saw the flat tundra of Siberia, which lush green stood in stark contrast to the white peaks of the surrounding mountains. A short rest filled with such visual impressions provided us with the energy necessary for the descent. I went first. I had to slowly check the top of the line, which was covered with hard and frozen snow.

 Then, after about 100 meters, I was able to accelerate a bit, and in a moment, wrapped in a white veil of snow, I was rushing down the steep, snowy wall. The joy of a good ride in such scenery always conjures up a wide smile on your face. Fabian was going next. I knew he would definitely show what he can do – after all, he is one of the best freeriders in the world. With his characteristic tremendous speed and just slight changes in direction, he maneuvered between the ice and the rocks. When he safely stopped at the bottom, it took a while for the rumble of snow sliding down to subside, ending this breathtaking spectacle. After such impressions, the motivation can be very high and each of us could already “book” another line for himself. At the end of the day, tired and content, we set out a small picnic on the sun-heated rock slabs above our camping site. A great place to enjoy the last hours of the passing day.