hanman

Fern is correct. I was there last Sunday. It appears that a soccer ball sized rock completely sheared the chain station. As I was solo, I didn't have replacement equipment, but ok gear may be had in the gully 10' left. I will try to replace within the next couple of weeks. Looks like Exfoliation Dome is living up to it's name!

A friend and myself are thinking of a North Rib trip in early August. Anyone done it? Is there water midway on the route? Any info is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Baloney Dome can stay shady most of the morning. Several routes 5.9 to 5.10d on a nice almost Leavenworth style dome. Approach via forest scramble (20 min.) just to the north of the "first" granite sidewalk on Blueberry Hill. Routes left to right are: Yul Brenners Finest Hour 5.10 d Hoodathunk- 5.10 a 5.10ish project Baloney Pony- 5.9 Baloney Express- 5.10 a/b For more info, consult DaveW's new guide.

I have been using the Hilti bits for about a year, and they seem to last about twice as long as others (Dewalt, Bosch, etc). While you're at it, check out the umbilical battery attachment to lighten up the unit for sharp end duty. It is an excellent addition if you are so inclined. Hilti has a Kirkland or Seattle branch, Patrick Morse is the sales rep @ 425-241-0697.

Yesterday my brother, chainsaw and I cleared ~ 267,352 downed alders from the road. It is now clear (for the time being) to the Blueberry fork.

Yes indeed, large tree is gone. We were able to drive to the normal parking spot with very little brush in the way.

About 3 weeks ago, in a brief period of sunshine, my friend and I climbed a line to the far right of Fuddhat. I saw the distinctive 250' dike last year in a search for water at the base. The route is 3 long pitches, 5.8+, 3/8 bolts+rap stations in place (take tcu's to 1"). The route was done ground up with typical Static runouts. We call it "Sparks". Overall a nice moderate addition to the existing lines. BTW, thanks to the recent dedicated parties who have worked on the access road - your skills with cutting implements are greatly appreciated!