Orient Point - ice

Somewhat low snow levels on the approach. We used the bypass instead of the approach ice. The Hidden Dragon approach has some steps with zero ice. The Joker is in excellent shape. Dry, with good protection, and mostly nice swings. Winds were calm and temps meant no gloves were needed to belay. Wind picked up as we were leaving and were strong & gusty by 11am. Hooker and CSM were not in and although coming along reasonably well, I wouldn't consider Hidden Dragon to be in good shape yet. Although there was low snow levels in the area and below the climb, what was there had quite a surface crust that wasn't easy to punch through while plunge stepping. Not sure if the crust was rain or wind induced. Not a solar aspect for a sun crust.