Power Play

In my opinion (and most everyone who is a local Adirondacker will agree), this is one of the best and most classic ice climbs in the Dacks. Most parties begin in the tight chimney, the rightmost of the three good ramp options. One long pitch (or two if belaying at the obvious ledge) continues either straight up the fearsome middle tier (5 or 5+), or up the obvious ramp right to a much briefer steep section leading to the pillar belay. Set the belay at the base of the final pillar where there is plenty of big fat ice in a semi-cave structure behind the pillar. The last pitch is short and steep in the 4+ range. There are plenty of trees at the top to build an anchor. This is a sought-after climb, so an early start can sometimes mean the difference of getting the climb.

Two 60-meter ropes are required for the standard rappel, though there is a slung cedar in the main drainage about 80' from the top. We didn't use the cedar.

Alternatively, hike left to a short down climb above Penalty Shot (stay roped for this short gully). A tree rappel of 165' leads directly to the base. This was pretty easy and I would recommend using this option.

Located in the Chapel Pond area off of route 73. Look for Chapel Pond and park in one of the dirt pull offs. Look across the pond and you will see the long hanging blue pillar that finishes Power Play. Walk across the pond to the base of the climb.

If anyone needs a place to stay, the Snow Goose Lodge is a great climbers lodge, and if you're really desperate, my house is about 4 miles up the road.

Plenty of screws if combining the first two pitches. There is rock gear on the first pitch (nuts and cams to #0.75 Camalot).

At the top belay, tucked to the left of the column against the rock, is a bomber green Alien and/or similar-sized nut placement.