-North-west ridge from Dyer-Gemini Col class 2
-West slopes of Gemini class 2
Hike: RT 7.0 (includes Dyer Mountain, Mounts Sherman and Sheridan); 1.0 up from Dyer Mountain. After a nice ascent over Dyer Mountain, I continued towards Mount Sherman's long gentle north ridge. First, I had to climb up the steep shaded north-west ridge from Dyer's windy saddle. I wasn't looking forward to stepping into the shade with the strong wind but the climb on talus didn't appear to be very long. When I crested atop the ridge, the sun immediately warmed me up. Gemini's twin peaks are more distinguishable from below; it was hard to tell that I was standing on the lower peak, it just looked like Mount Sherman's north ridge to me. I veered towards the pyramidal mound to the east which is Gemini's taller peak, it's a worthwhile easy side trip just a skip and a hop away. Gemini Peak is considered a sub-peak of Mount Sherman and grants a fabulous 360˚ view. This very lofty 13er could be a centennial summit but lacks the prominence, it is 40' short of being a 14er! The ascent is short and sweet; additionally, the top sports a nice rock shelter for anyone considering a good break. I took pictures but didn't stay very long, I wanted to reach the summit of Mount Sherman before the crowds and carry on to Mount Sheridan before the afternoon's possible unstable weather. The descent was speedy and I was delivered back onto Mount Sherman's connecting ridge. The wind was still very strong but the heat and brightness of the day made up for it. I hiked the broad gentle ridge mindlessly, contemplating this and that, it was a good feeling.
