Stretching upward nearly a thousand vertical feet above the icy remnants below, the East Ridge of Bedayan Minaret stakes its claim as one of the Minaret chain’s most commanding stone faces. This line is no casual stroll; it asks for focus on its first 80 feet—a compact but demanding crux that separates confident leaders from those still sizing up the route. But once past this threshold, the ridge releases much of its tension, offering long sections of exposed scrambling on surprisingly solid metavolcanic rock. Despite the seemingly relaxed terrain beyond the start, each pitch peppers in short bursts of 5th-class climbing that keep your hands busy and senses sharp.

The route is a study in variety and rhythm, shifting from tight stem boxes and bulges to airy dihedrals and narrow crenellated crests. Pitch one carves through a steep, blackened flake system where slickness meets bulging obstacles, demanding precise footwork and steady gear placements that reward patience. From there, the infamous Rusty Ramp on pitch two curves around a grassy amphitheater, offering a visual break before technical sequences resume along sharp aretes and headwalls.

Each rope length unfolds distinct terrain: from crack jams that test traditional protection skills, to extended hands-on sections tracing the spine of the ridge. The rock holds firm, lending confidence amidst exposure, while the skyline frames the approach of a short angular tower on pitch six, a pivot point before a 15-foot downclimb challenges downclimb nerves as much as technique. Beyond this, the route transitions into a battled dance along a narrow crest, where stone steps and gentle scrambles open panoramic views of the Minarets’ ragged crown.

The final pitches fine-tune your balance and focus, culminating in a knife-edge summit ridge where exhilaration and reverence meet. The summit log is discreet but storied — with entries from early pioneers and legends alike — reminding climbers they stand atop a chapter of alpine history.

Descent demands equal respect. The north ridge drop offers exposed downclimbing that can be deceptively committing, leading into the East Couloir’s notorious "bowling alley" of loose debris and potential rockfall hazards. Short rappels off slung blocks provide safe passage through the steepest sections, but daylight and caution are paramount. Trust in your planning: dark or hurried exits amplify risk here. After this stern descent, the snowfield’s steep final slide deposits you onto scree slopes above Iceberg Lake, linking you back to the safety of camp.

This is a climb that marries the physical with the mental, pushing you to manage route-finding, gear placement, and endurance amidst the raw grandeur of the High Sierra. Pack a solid rack up to 3 inches with an optional 4-inch piece for the widest cracks, stay hydrated and warm, and move with deliberate care. With strategy and respect, the East Ridge offers a fiercely rewarding day on one of California’s most striking alpine walls.