Aerial 

Ariel is rated 11b, sandbagging isn't cool, people can get seriously hurt or even die, have you ever seen the aftermath of a bad accident at a cliff, serious bummer for everyone.

I'm really getting pissed at you guys.

Ariel used to have just 4 bolts. Did someone add one or two? Optional pro at the "break" and also at the top roof when I led it.

I agree with A/C. Call this at least 5.11a unless you cheat way out right...

I always thought it was 5.11.

Everything is 5.9 or 5.10 if you climb it enough, ratings for any area should be based on an on-sight lead attempt. Down-grading a climb that you have "wired" creates a dangerous situation for a visiting climber. Check your hat sizes for any recent changes.

Recently gave this route the true onsite and don't think its anywhere close to .11b. I think it is a very technical climb but comparing it to some of the other climbs in the area I think giving it a .10d rating is generous. The crux sections are all well protected.

This goes back to the age old debate about ratings but remember that they are just a guide. I think that if you were a .10b climber that you would not get hurt on this climb in its current state. Whether you TR or lead it, this is a fun climb.

I remember doing Ariel in '84, scared shitless. Years later I lived in Zephyr Cove and climbed it again with my wife, noticing that it had about twice as many bolts...much more fun that way.

I'll join in on the grade wankery. I know that route well. Calling it 5.10 anything is a blatant sandbag. I know a number of solid 5.11 climbers who could not onsight it.

Heh. It seems like if you quiz the locals, every climb at this crag is soft. They must be practicing the "straight face" grading method: whatever grade you can give a climb and still keep a straight face.

Very cool climb in fantastic position. Very balancy and sequency, which is likely what leads to the great rating debate. I say its an honest 11a for the onsite (which is what matters right?), since you can get a bit pumped on small crimps/sidepulls while looking for the moves and figuring out the sequence, but once you run a few laps it becomes much easier. 5.10+/5.11-? Whatever. Just remember the advice of Steve Petro (he was referring to Fiddler on the Roof .13+, but logic applies throughout climbing), 'Don't slap the route if you're shaky at the grade!" :)