Shelf Road - Day Trip
I drove down to Co Springs to pick up Margaret. I got to her dorm around 8am in the morning. We were at the crag around 9:30am. There were only a few cars…
It was such nice weather that all the Boulderites stayed up in their neck of the woods. It was still a little crowded at Shelf, but nothing like what we experienced back in February. The high was definitely around 80 degrees-both Margaret & I had tank tops on. And, both Margaret & I got burned. DOH, we forgot to reapply sunscreen.
I only led one climb, a dubious route called “Mr. Fred” a slightly run out 5.8/9 with a slightly nervy 5.10a finish. Not a great route-but I was proud that I did the scary lieback just off of a hospital ledge, and managed to make the clip, instead of break myself.
The following routes were put up by a most gracious Margaret. I cleaned them, for the most part without hanging. I believe I said “take” a total of 4 times all day.
Slicer 5.10b *** (TR - 1 Hang)
Christmas Tree 5.10c ** (TR)
Mr. Fred 5.10a * (L)
Dihedrus 5.10b **** (TR)
Almost Gothic 5.11/12a **** (TR - 2 hangs)
Axis of Evil 5.10d *** (TR - 1 Hang)
The 5.11d/12a was a great climb, and I’m happy I only had to take twice. I haven’t climbed that hard in many years. Margaret was very encouraging, and gave a most attentive belay.