Wow nice ascent! Russell is on my list too after a failed early spring attempt a few years ago (tons of snow at the top, almost fell). Would like to do it as a day hike, how is it descending the e-ledges in the darkness?
Good idea not to try and summit Mt Russell with snow on the East Ridge. It is a safe route if it is not slippery.
I didn't cross the E-ledges in total darkness (I think it was around 5pm). In fact, last year I spent and unplanned overnight at UBSL to avoid doing just that. If I ever traverse the E-ledges in darkness I'll do it very slowly/carefully.
