This route follows a great handcrack in a left-facing corner for about 65-70 feet, at which point there is an obvious off-width (direct finish 9+) to the left or easier terrain to the right -- the original route goes right following mellow terrain to the anchors. I found the route to be sustained at the grade with no particular crux. The face holds are plentiful, so the rests come easy as does protection.
Location
Continue past RJ gold etc., down a couple of steps-follow the trail for 30 yards or so. The route is a prominent left-facing corner.
Protection
Mainly hand-sized cams. A rack from 1" up to 3" will do fine, double up on the 2 - 2.5" pieces to really sew it up.
This is a great route! The fact that it has 2 pitches (although the 2nd is quite short) makes for a unique experience at Sunset. The exit up the face left of the off-width is also a great finish at about 10a. The gear (sm. to med. wires/cams) is not obvious from the belay, but it opens up as you go. Fantastic...
Fun Sustained Route. If using the Ring anchors above the 5.11 to the right, it seemed best to belay from above. we did not, however and a well placed directional limited rope drag. still in hind site would have belayed my partner form above.
By saxfiend Administrator From: Atlanta, GA Jul 26, 2008 rating: 5.9
Great climb, but the rating is a sandbag as far as I'm concerned. Pretty much never lets up til you're near the top of the first pitch.
Probably the best 8 at sunset with perfect cadillac smooth jamming and gear a go-go. I think you could throw cams at the route and they would be bomber! There are anchors off to the right at two thirds height, but if you have a 3.5 and or a 4 BD then continue straight up the crack for the more natural line. Large hands will keep the grade moderate, but my small handed wife stems it at about 9+
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