The BLM office in Monticello has asked the Friends of Indian Creek to remind climbers that there is a 14-day limit on camping on BLM Land. The F.O.I.C. understands that there is a bit of a history of staying in the Creek for far longer, but heavy climber-traffic in the area has made the BLM take notice of this tradition. Be aware that overstaying the 14-day limit makes climbers look as if we feel the rules don't apply to us and thus has an effect on long-term access. Moving your campsite throughout the season, or perhaps finding a site outside the main Indian Creek area, will not only help smooth relations with the BLM, but will also keep you from possibly getting hit with a fine.
This excellent pitch is located well to the left of the alcove containing Johnny Cat, Mad Dog, etc. There was a plaque identifying the route at the base when I did it. I'm pretty sure that a single 60m rope will get you off.
The pitch starts out by pulling a bulge to a good rest. The crux difficulties begin afterward with a bulging, obtuse corner on very tight hands (tight #1's). The crack eventually widens to perfect hands through a couple roofs to a final big-hands roof. A wide slot guards the anchors, so you may want to haul that #4 camalot up for this bit.
The grade above is from the guidebook, but it felt more like mid-5.11 to me. I have pretty thin hands though.
Protection
Lots of #1 and #2 camalots. Some #.5 and #.75 camalots for the start and a couple #3's for the top. One could also place a #4 in the slot at the top.
A great pitch! Didn't seem 5.12 to me. Also, not as classic as King Cat, so I would detract one star from this route and give it to King Cat making Alley 3.5 stars and King Cat 4 stars.
Just repeated this route yesterday. I actually rapped off with a single 70 meter rope. When the end of the rope came into my belayer's grigri my feet were 4-feet off the ground. Easily downclimbed the rest. Not 5.12 but definitely not 11- either Mr. Anonymous Coward.
Climbed this on 11/7/2009 and while it had a tendency to get a little dirty without traffic in the past, it was absolutely covered in mud inside and out, top to bottom. Horrendous. Even the anchors had collected a layer of mud. I think something above must have shifted or changed above to dump mud down the wall. I doubt it will clean up any time soon. This route is OUT! No stars. RIP.
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