I will finally get to spend some time in the Tuolumne high country next week. There are so many peaks and ridges to choose from. The plan is to see how they look (after previewing with topo maps) and always allow turning back as a real option if uncomfortable.
Matthes Crest looks exhilarating - and the entire length of it is undoubtably beyond my current skills and comfort level. See this video for an example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvvPVMdrzw8
So, I'm wondering if it is a ridge that could be approached from the north (from Echo Peaks/ Cockscomb) and followed south - maybe 1/2 or 2/3 of the way to the summit (10918') or if it's too narrow, and the views just as good from not too far south of Echo Peaks. The climb up from the south looks too much from the topo map.
BTW, I eventually noticed climbing carabiners (not attach-to-your-pack 'biners) and chalk bags dangling off the guys in the video linked above. That explains how they had the ability to just watch their footsteps and ignore the exposure. It makes Angel's Landing in Zion look like walking an aircraft carrier IMO.
Thoughts? Thanks.