On Sunday morning, way before the sun came up, I drove over to the West Side of Denver. My goal was to join Kris in his summit bid for Mt. Sherman (14,026 ft).
I had no idea what to expect; I hadn’t prepared as I normally do. All I had done was read Kris’ email, which just mentioned meeting him sometime around 5am.
Lucky for me, Mt. Sherman is just about the easiest 14’er, short of driving up Mt. Evans… (more…)
On Saturday, we met Charles & Mary in Estes Park. We were set to do a lovely day hike up to Crystal Lake (11,520 ft), via the Lawn Lake Trailhead. It was especially exciting because we hadn’t seen these guys in nearly a year.
The hike to Crystal Lake is 7.7 miles one way with nearly 3,000 feet of gain. It’s listed as “strenuous”, although we found it to be quite pleasureable. It follows a creek, and has ample shade, making it a lovely mid summer hike. (more…)
**************Special Note****************
This is my 100th climbing blog entry. Just an FYI.
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On May 31st, Barry, Aika, and I climbed at Wall of the 90s in Clear Creek Canyon. After a day of spectacular climbing in Eldo, we were ready to experience the bolt clipping frenzy of Clear Creek!
We wound through Clear Creek Canyon, searching for the right pullout, sipping coffee and yakking about routes. On the way, we saw caution tape and the police. We found out later, from some locals, there was a drowning. Rumor had it that they discovered a dead body floating down the creek. I don’t know if it was true…but it sure was an ominous start to our day!
The Wall of the 90s is an easy hike from the car, up a steep enbankment, and just off of Clear Creek. I liked the location because it was shady in the morning and sunny in the afternoon, since it was a bit chilly out, the sun was nice in the pm. (more…)
On May 30th, I climbed in Eldorado Canyon with Barry, Aika, and Jim. Barry & Aika were off to do The Yellow Spur (5.10a), while Jim and I went on a tour of moderates:
Breezy (5.6) – Jim led
Wind Ridge (5.8) – I led
Whale’s Tail (5.6) – Jim led.
The weather was perfect, with a teeny tiny spitting of rain in the pm. Refreshing!
Here’s Barry & Aika, about to run up Yellow Spur:
Victory Shot of Aika on Yellow Spur (5.10a)
Here’s Jim & I goofing off:
(more…)
On Saturday, I joined my fellow co-workers at the 26th running of the Federal Cup. At my workplace, the Fed Cup is a very coveted prize. Folks train for it and generally get amped up every spring. I was asked to be part of the co-ed team, and again, I had to say yes!
