mountainsloth

Ever since I first set foot on the slabs of Darrington, I knew I found a special place both in nature and within myself. I have climbed scary runouts, taken 30 foot wipers, and many long and beautiful lines out there with friends and my wife yet the place seems new, exciting, and awe-inspiring every visit. I have taken the new and old, the sport-os, novices, and those who have climbed everything. The response climbing those walls are always overwhelmingly joyous. I say climb that magnificent rock anyway you wish, but be prepared to be held high for 5 star routes, be ostracized for ruining the rock, or not be heard as your route might never be climbed. Chris, your routes speak for themselves. Don't change a thing. Your work is very well appreciated. As for over crowding... I think the approaches are doing a good job with this issue. Cheers to the wilderness for healing the wounds of our old timber and mining days.

you continue to amaze guys. way to be.

Nice work fellas. That valley is getting pretty busy.

I think the photo is showing someone with their head in their ass?

It ain't so bad. If you are up there, you are up there for hard slab and the approach should not spook you too much.

looks like a fun trip! Nice shot of the marmot.

seriously enjoying the development on this wall of perfect granite. Proud creation gentlemen.

wow. pretty well filmed for an accident. I love the song choice while being dragged... Touching the Void reference?

I have climbed out there in the pouring rain. There are a few climbs that stay "Dry" aside from a few damp holds. Reptiles is always dry, aborigine and slaborigine stay dry. Rainy day women might be ok too.

cool. nice photos. i should make a pilgrimage to do the same. How close is the road to being closed? think this weather will end the Trailhead for the season?

marvelous! been wanting that shiz for a while. thanks for the snack.

right on! another beauty on the best rock along the I-90 corridor. Solid work Rad!

I knew it couldn't be Garibaldi, too close. I guess I have never seen Shuksan from that angle. Guess I mixed up Seven Finger Jack with Three Fingers. oops. Thanks Jason.

Trip: Mt Pugh - Standard Date: 11/1/2011 Trip Report: I had a spectacular solo day up Mt Pugh last Tuesday. Mt. Pugh is a pretty straight forward climb for a 7,000+ foot peak. The weather was perfect and the peak's position offered stunning views. This peak is not to be missed for those wanting a quick day out with tremendous 360 views. The scenery was made colorful with lingering Fall colors and snow-capped peaks. Reflection of Pugh from Lake Metan The transition to snowline made the endless switchbacks lovely. The clouds hung low in the valleys adding to the views. Breaking above tree line. The trail switchbacks up the obvious notch (Stujack Pass) Sperry peak looks like it has some Winter potential. I reached the pass and was greeted with more incredible views. White Chuck and Baker The sub peak opposite Pugh NE face. From the pass route finding became more than following a trail due to increasing snow. From Stujack pass I stayed on or near the ridge then traversed the South face weaving through cliff bands and skirting gendarmes. The deep snow made the exposure a bit more real. The route to the summit seemed improbable, but every time I thought I was going to be cliffed out, the path presented itself. Looking back at the ridge I wallowed through knee deep powder just below the summit. Wish I had wore my boots and gaiters and not a pair of trail running shoes. Glacier peak welcomed me as I hit the summit. The 360 views were a joy. Shuksan Pugh, White Chuck, Baker Whitehorse Three Fingers Glacier Peak Looking back on the descent Icy exposure is always more intimidating with only running shoes and a trekking pole. Back at the pass this little insect greeted me. "Are you lost?" Snow starts around 4000ft with lots of it by 5000. Gear Notes: Boots and an ice axe would have been nice. Approach Notes: Trail is in great shape, as is the road but it will soon close for the season.

yea i am interested. pm sent.

Glad some else noticed that

cool! i recognize the cave of tunnel vision at Red Rocks. That was my second trad multi-pitch. way to get after it guys.

wow. excellent story-telling. Thanks for sharing Bill

yea, I am sold. Just gotta up my game a grade. Magnificent adventure Layton!

so many gems still waiting in the cascades. way to prove that point. looks like a gem thats for sure.

Your TRs are a pleasure, this one was no different. Great adventure guys!

jealous of the dad climbing thing.

rock on! thanks for sharing.

How do you make Boston Basin more sweet? Add a pinch of sugar of course! Nice photos Josh.