Trip: North Early Winters Spire - West Face
Date: 7/17/2010
Trip Report:
Good route. The 5.11 section (soft) is short with good rests; actually felt the 5.10 pitch above it was a bit more strenuous. Near the top of the 5.11 crack, you are forced to traverse left past a bolt into a different crack system--although some guides suggest setting a belay higher in this crack system, the pro and position are better for belaying (IMHO) from the point at which the system is entered, as opposed to higher up--just a thought.
FYI, right now, if descending via single raps, you'll need a 70 meter rope to avoid having to down-climb snow gullies.
I believe I lost my driver's license (due to a faulty pocket, and, perhaps, inadequately caffeinated brain) somewhere between the TH and the second pitch of the climb--if you happen to find it I'd be grateful for its return.
Gear Notes:
Medium rack to 3 inches; I found RPs and C3s to work well for protecting the crux pitch.
Approach Notes:
Snow free.