Exit 38 with Josh

Published on 2004-4-29 by Michael Stanton

Exit 38, April 29, 2004

Josh and I unwittingly hiked past the Amazonia and Club Paradiso walls, failing upwards all the way to the Peannicle. We saw a few sad rocks along the way, all dripping and unattractive, so I guess it was just as well. We climbed "Peanut Brittle," finding it a bit harder than the 5.6/5.7 rating it gets in the guidebook. Then "Killer Bob," which had enjoyable juggy holds to escape an overhang (5.9). Finally, we climbed "Gallivant (5.10a)," which was the longest route, with interesting moves on a steep slab to a vertical headwall. I belayed Josh from the top of this one, which provided a great view of the fertile valley below. A rappel, then nice jog back to the trailhead. "Be gentle, but be vigilant" was the catchphrase of the morning, invented from a meaty stew of conversation about public servants, irate laypeople, a lack of toilet paper, and egregious affronts to propriety.