XXX Posted July 21, 2009 Share Posted July 21, 2009 (edited) Trip: Washington Pass - South Early Winter Spire, South Arete 7807 ft. Date: 7/20/2009 Trip Report: My friend Brent Underwood has been doing alot of mountaineering this summer and expressed interest in alpine rock. After one day in leavenworth I figured that South Early Winter Spire would be the best way to teach some basic traditional multi pitch climbing skills. This was his first time belaying a leader on rock, and it made me a little nervous but after the first pitch it was all good. We made quick work of the first crux friction move at the bottom. The best part of the climb was the second pitch with the 5.4 chimney move. Once above sandy ledges and some easy cracks we made it to the whale back which provided some nice exposure. The mosquitoes were evil. Had to cover my body up the whole time to avoid getting bitten to death. Even at the summit we were hounded! We only ran into one other party on the route that was being guided. Other then that we had the whole route to ourselves. We down climbed to the whale back,and down some blockly rock slabs. Afterwards three rappels got us to the base. Approach to the base of SEWS. Whale back. Guided party at the summit. Brent on the summit. Beautiful views. Last rappel down. Did I mention the bugs were brutal! Gatorade does a body good. Time to sleep! Gear Notes: Small rack of cams and nuts to 2.5. 60 meter rope, slings, etc etc. Edited July 21, 2009 by XXX Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
YocumRidge Posted July 22, 2009 Share Posted July 22, 2009 Touray, I thought you are training to become an astronaut? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
spotly Posted July 22, 2009 Share Posted July 22, 2009 Great way to enjoy a day. I love the view of Golden Horn and Tower Mountain from up there. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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