Trip Report
Sandra and Big Mike's EXTREMELY LONG Facelift Odyssey!!!
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Sunday September 14, 2014 11:44pm
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This tale all started last year with one simple wish. Sandra opined at facelift last year, "I wish i had my car!"
To which I replied, "if you want this broken back mf to drive to Cali next year, you better take at least a month off so we can have time to stop along the way and make a roadtrip out of it!!" Little did I know she would actually call my bluff! ;)
So here we are, in Lynnwood, Wa having completed the first leg of out journey. Today was a bit of a gong show. I of course procrastinated too much this past couple weeks, as is my nature and was doing paper work till noon to try and get my business sorted before i left. Sandra did all the packing. Everything, except my clothes.. Lol thanks babe! ;)
Originally we were supposed to leave at 9 am. I think we got out the door around three... Lol
It was a gorgeous day in Whistler.
 Visit on staticflickr.com
The drive down was so nice, I was thinking... Why are we leaving Squamish??
 Visit on staticflickr.com
The Apron is dead... Really??
 Visit on staticflickr.com
Cruising down Howe sound.
 Visit on staticflickr.com
We took the Alex Fraser bridge to avoid the toll and it was a breeze!
 Visit on staticflickr.com
I love the shadows in this shot.
 Visit on staticflickr.com
The delta cow fields were quite fragrant this evening!
 Visit on staticflickr.com
We made it though the border, no problem, thanks to my coaching Sandra not to give out too much extra info for them to question.
No more pics, i5 wasn't very inspiring. I'm getting a at&t sim card tomorrow so i can truly be reporting Live this trip!!!
Off to Oregon tomorrow!
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Trip Report Views: 15,148 |
Big Mike
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About the Author
Big Mike is a trad climber/sci patient who is dreading these long drives! Lol |
Comments
Ed Hartouni
Trad climber
Livermore, CA
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Sep 15, 2014 - 12:09am PT
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wooo hooo!
see you both soon!
have a safe and fun trip down!
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Tricouni
Mountain climber
Glenn Woodsworth, Vancouver BC
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Sep 15, 2014 - 12:13am PT
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For those of us who can't be there in person, keep the reports coming, Mike!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 15, 2014 - 12:49am PT
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Thanks Ed!! Getting psyched!
Glenn wish you could come too! We should get together when i get home!
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climbski2
Mountain climber
The Ocean
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Sep 15, 2014 - 05:59am PT
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What kind of scam is this BigMike??? Clearly this is not the pacific Northwest. Blue Skies? Yeah... Riiiight..I'm supposed to believe that?
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MisterE
Gym climber
Small Town with a Big Back Yard
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Sep 15, 2014 - 06:08am PT
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Getting psyched too, Mike!
See you soon.
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johntp
Trad climber
Punter, Little Rock
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Sep 15, 2014 - 07:18am PT
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keep it coming!
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Sep 15, 2014 - 07:27am PT
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Nice photos. In the 3rd it looks like Sierra and I were off the Grand Wall by time you went past. I'm glad we will be hearing from you while you are away.
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Reilly
Mountain climber
The Other Monrovia- CA
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Sep 15, 2014 - 08:24am PT
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Wait, they've got stoplights in Squamish now?
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nita
Social climber
chica de chico, I don't claim to be a daisy.
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Sep 15, 2014 - 08:43am PT
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*
Hey Big Mike and Sandra...Looking forward to more road trip pictures.. Travel safe and see you at the facelift!!..BTW, If you are road weary and need a place to couch surf in northern Cal...We have a spare room..
Cheers!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 15, 2014 - 08:49am PT
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What kind of scam is this BigMike??? Clearly this is not the pacific Northwest. Blue Skies? Yeah... Riiiight..I'm supposed to believe that?
I know right?? I find it very difficult to photoshop blue skies on my phone! I swear it was real!
Thanks Tad! That's the goal!
Ya E! C u soon!
John- U know it! Looking forward to meeting you!
Thanks Andy! So jealous! I wanna do the grand again!
U know it Reilly! All the modern conveniences this days! ;)
Weston!! Let's go bud! ;) see you in nov!
Thanks Nita! Sandra would love to purchase a couple of jars of the lovely almond butter you gave us last year! She said it was the best ever!
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Leggs
Sport climber
Made in California, living in The Old Pueblo
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Sep 15, 2014 - 08:48am PT
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Yay for Mike and Sandra!! Excellent photos... looking forward to more from your adventure!
Be safe!
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this just in
climber
Justin Ross from North Fork
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Sep 15, 2014 - 08:52am PT
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Oh I feel bad for those poor, helpless, double doubles from In n Out. Stoked for you guys, hopefully I get to meet up.
Don't forget your animal fries.
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phylp
Trad climber
Upland, CA
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Sep 15, 2014 - 08:58am PT
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This will be great, Big Mike. You take wonderful photos and I am counting on you to be my man on the scene at Facelift this year.
:-) Phyl
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 15, 2014 - 09:00am PT
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Yay leggs! Enjoy life is on the menu!!
Justin! We better meet up! I got sumthin for ya!!
We'll miss you Phylp! Are we on for vegas?
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SC seagoat
Trad climber
Santa Cruz, Moab, Bozeman, the ocean, or ?
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Sep 15, 2014 - 09:15am PT
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Epic. Epic. There are so many titles that come mind when I think of you guys traveling down to the Valley of Awe.
Can't wait to catch with you guys. Well I guess I'll never really catch up, but you know what I mean!
See you in a week!
Susan
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HighTraverse
Trad climber
Bay Area
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Sep 15, 2014 - 09:27am PT
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Facelift Stoke!
I'll be the Tuolumne camp Nanny
How're we all going to get together?
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 15, 2014 - 10:25am PT
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Susan- hope your tootsie is feeling better!!
Slr come down for meatfest on saturday at yellow pines!
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Marlow
Sport climber
OSLO
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Sep 15, 2014 - 10:28am PT
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Great trip start - excellent photo clearity, rock, cool bridge... Keep on reporting: ...
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 15, 2014 - 11:28am PT
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I'm LIVE on 4g!!! Whut whut!! Lovin it!!
Now if i could just get Sandra away from these babies....
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Ghost
climber
A long way from where I started
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Sep 15, 2014 - 11:38am PT
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Hi Sandra!
(And you too, big guy)
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RyanD
climber
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Sep 15, 2014 - 11:42am PT
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Have a feeling Big Mike is attempting to break the record for
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RyanD
climber
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Sep 15, 2014 - 11:43am PT
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Most comments on a TR page
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RyanD
climber
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Sep 15, 2014 - 11:43am PT
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Formerly set by kidcormier
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RyanD
climber
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Sep 15, 2014 - 11:43am PT
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I'll help where I can Mike
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HighTraverse
Trad climber
Bay Area
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Sep 15, 2014 - 11:44am PT
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Now if i could just get Sandra away from these babies... as if!
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this just in
climber
Justin Ross from North Fork
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Sep 15, 2014 - 12:32pm PT
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Ha Ryan.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 15, 2014 - 01:00pm PT
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Lol Ryan.. I wanted it to be a tr.. But i don't wanna edit it all the time.. We'll see how this works out... Lol
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mike m
Trad climber
black hills
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Sep 15, 2014 - 01:11pm PT
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Occupy
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 15, 2014 - 01:44pm PT
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Occupy Supertopo with Climbing Info!!
We're finally on the 5 again! Headed for Madras, Or!
We'll probably be setting up in the dark.. Lol
Adventure is calling!
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Sep 15, 2014 - 01:54pm PT
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hey there say, wow! big mike and sandra!!
great you are making it there...
wish i was there to see you all...
happy good clean up, to yosemite and good fellowship to you all,...
wow!!!!!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 15, 2014 - 01:59pm PT
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Great trip start - excellent photo clearity, rock, cool bridge... Keep on reporting: ...
Thanks Marlow! I'll try and keep my standards up for ya!
Hi Dave!! Sandra says hi!
Thanks Tami!
Go Ryan, Go Ryan!
Ht- it was tough for sure.. Allowed me some time to run a few errands though!
Mouse!! Hope you're well buddy!! C u soon!!
Neebs! You gotta come next year! Life ain't getting any longer!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 15, 2014 - 02:36pm PT
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The iconic space needle
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 15, 2014 - 07:31pm PT
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After a quick stop for some provisions outside Portland, we're on the scenic road, thanks to kev's tip. Headed to Hood River on the old 84!
The sunset over portland was stunning.
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HighTraverse
Trad climber
Bay Area
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Sep 15, 2014 - 07:37pm PT
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Mike
Watch out in Southern Oregon
Major wildfire in Weed CA, at Mt Shasta. 5 may get closed.
The very few alternate highways will be mobbed if 5 closes.
Stay tuned to the Wildfire thread here.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 15, 2014 - 07:46pm PT
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Sh#t, Good looking out Ht! I'm on it!
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Flip Flop
climber
Earth Planet, Universe
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Sep 15, 2014 - 07:52pm PT
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Are y'all takin' tokin' selfies?
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ß Î Ø T Ç H
Boulder climber
ne'er–do–well
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Sep 15, 2014 - 09:18pm PT
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Why are we leaving Squamish?? I concur.
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RyanD
climber
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Sep 15, 2014 - 10:07pm PT
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Post 43 on day 1 of 25 or so will put this TR at about
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RyanD
climber
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Sep 15, 2014 - 10:09pm PT
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Sorry just had to calculate.
1,075 posts by their return.
And They haven't even put their chalkbags on yet, I can't wait!
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Wayno
Big Wall climber
Republic, WA
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Sep 15, 2014 - 10:14pm PT
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^^^^
lol!
I saw you at Psyche ledge , Ryan, but never got the chance to say hi. Hola!
Mike, tell Sandra I missed seeing her, too. Have a great time and beware of low hanging doorways.
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Wayno
Big Wall climber
Republic, WA
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Sep 15, 2014 - 11:15pm PT
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It will take more than some closed roads to put the hurts to Mike and Sandra"s big adventure. Mike has the modern technology and his Taco family to make it happen. A little detour or a delay could open an unexpected door.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 16, 2014 - 02:36am PT
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We made it to Trout Creek!
We had to stop at the casino and beg them to sell us ice, because we forgot to buy more before we left civilization for a bit there.. Lol
Are y'all takin' tokin' selfies?
Lol.. Nic tokin selfies maybe! Lol sandra just got that esmoke. She's trying to ditch her one butt a day habit..
Biotch- ya right?? Lol We needed to get away. It's just not the same if you're home. Facelift's gonna be a blast!
1,075 posts by their return.
And They haven't even put their chalkbags on yet, I can't wait!
Lol! Am i going to make it my goal to break that!!! Lol Will an uber large photo tr crash??? I guess we'll find out!!
Mike, tell Sandra I missed seeing her, too. Have a great time and beware of low hanging doorways.
Sandra says sorry but she had to miss it, but someone had to pack for this adventure! Lol
I'm always wary or low overhead objects.. But i have hit a few in my day! Lol. I'm missing my ground sheet for my tent. Did it get mixed up with your stuff after cor?
High Traverse was right
Thanks Mike.
Thanks Tad too. So this is my dilemma, do we go west and hit the 5 knowing that it could potentially be closed in two days? Or do I go east and cut back west to redding and avoid the whole mess?? Placerville is next stop.
True dat Wayno!!!
I got my 6d out for a couple shots..
This weather is simply amazing. I really hope the ridge breaks down for fire's sake.. But i'm loving the climbing opportunities!!
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anita514
Gym climber
Great White North
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Sep 16, 2014 - 04:23am PT
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Long exposure? I am borrowing a friend's d-SLR for my trip.
How long are you guys staying in Cali?
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Sep 16, 2014 - 06:14am PT
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This TR is blowing me away already. Outstanding photos. Special sunset. The Space Needle and Trout Creek are a good trip down Memory Lane. This thread looks like all the news I'll need for a while. Cheers to the instigator and all the contributors.
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Sep 16, 2014 - 06:18am PT
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and it all started with wishing for the car
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this just in
climber
Justin Ross from North Fork
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Sep 16, 2014 - 06:45am PT
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Damn Mike, are you getting those night shots with your iPhone? Awesome. BBST!
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Norwegian
Trad climber
dancin on the tip of god's middle finger
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Sep 16, 2014 - 06:57am PT
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hey mike
can i have some spare chaaaange!
i'll trade you my lies and dreams.
[Click to View YouTube Video]
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mike m
Trad climber
black hills
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Sep 16, 2014 - 07:40am PT
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Occupy where you're at.
You gonna occupy some of those sweet looking cracks at trout creek? I think they look a little like these.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 16, 2014 - 09:44am PT
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Long exposure? I am borrowing a friend's d-SLR for my trip.
How long are you guys staying in Cali?
Ya with my 6d and 14mm lens. Cool! We're here till about the 5th of oct?
Yes Andy. Sandra was the inspiration for this trip and i carefully crafted the plan so that it would be both relaxing and exciting!
Justin- I wish! Lol i brought out the big guns this trip. Cause i could! Those were shot with my cannon 6d on a 14mm wide.
Weege! You can borrow some stoke any time bud!!
Thanks Tad- we're climbing here today and i guess we'll see what tomorrow brings. I guess i might have an opportunity to be one of the first reporters on the scene if 97 re-opens.
Mike M! Yes sir! If we like we might stay an extra day.. Really it's if the climbing doesn't kick our ass too much. Lol looks pretty sustained!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 16, 2014 - 09:58am PT
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We had some Visitors last night...
The gorgeous Dechutes river.
Our objective in the background.
Allright.. Time to go hump up that hill!!!
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Grippa
Trad climber
Salt Lake City, UT
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Sep 16, 2014 - 10:20am PT
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Mike your stoke is infectious!!! LIVING AND LOVING LIFE!!!
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RyanD
climber
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Sep 16, 2014 - 11:18am PT
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Nice Mike! Check out east side thru Susanville-Reno-Tahoe. I usually go that way anyways as u dodge a few major cities & lots of slaughterhouses. Lovers is only 1.5hr from Reno.
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Mungeclimber
Trad climber
Nothing creative to say
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Sep 16, 2014 - 11:28am PT
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Dig it!
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donini
Trad climber
Ouray, Colorado
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Sep 16, 2014 - 11:56am PT
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Keep on truckin Big Mike.
You'll be in Cali and I'll be in Your backyard...Squamish.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 16, 2014 - 05:11pm PT
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Posting live from the basalt talus!
We found the object of our desire.
More in a bit.
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phylp
Trad climber
Upland, CA
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Sep 16, 2014 - 05:41pm PT
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We're definately on for Vegas, Big Mike!
See you there.
I'll get in touch a few days before you fly down, we'll know what the weather will be up to...
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 16, 2014 - 11:23pm PT
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Mike your stoke is infectious!!! LIVING AND LOVING LIFE!!!
Buddy! You know it dude! Perspective is awesome but i wouldn't suggest my training method to anyone!! Lol
Greg it was super awesome climbing with you and i hope to tie in more in the future!!
Ryan- good suggestion bro! It looks like placerville is scratched off the list. Weege is hosting evacuees and looking at possibly being ousted himself although he seems confident they'll be ok. I certainly wish them the best!!
Ya Munge! We gotta hook up one of these days bro. We're hitting shuteye after facelift??
Jim! Have fun in Squamish! Run up the grand for me! I'll see you in Red Rock(s). We need to tie in and run up some classics!
Sweet phylp! Looking forward to it!!
Too tired for a report tonight. It'll be my morning bump since we're on the road again..
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Sep 17, 2014 - 12:09am PT
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hey there, say, big mike, great shots... :)
oh my, and the paw-print, of the visitor, :O
say, i had not even thought about the road closures, as you all are working your way to yosemite...
:(
prayers for all the firefighters, first and foremost,
and for you folks to get on
into yosemite, for sure, as well ... :)
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 17, 2014 - 02:35pm PT
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Neebs- we'll be fine. It's all my friends i'm worried about! Best of luck to all dealing with fires!
Rockies- Thanks! That place looks sweet!
Yesterday was pretty fun.. We got a late start after our late night arrival.
Sandra on the river road out to the crag.
After a 40 min hike we were within a couple hundred meters but we had to rest in the shade of the talus before the last push.
Sandra with the Deschutes in the valley below.
The views are simply stunning up there...
Our playground on the northern end.
While racking up, we discovered that we had left my harness in the jeep... I came up with a sling harness so we could still climb but Sandra was not impressed... Lol
I kept telling her, don't worry baby! This is what they did before they had harnesses! Lol
Sandra Topolay photo
After i let her sit on the #5 at the bottom for a minute, she seemed a little more comfortable with my makeshift rig.. Lol she had reason to be wary since it was actually my first time fashioning a harness from slings... Lol Not that i told her that info.. Lol
Sandra getting some gear in after the pillar on t-handles, 5.9.
Working the smear. The crack was facing right so it was quite awkward to jam straight in.
She was a little tired after scrapping her way piece to piece the whole way up. Definitely her hardest lead to date.
Me getting some trout crack.
I got it clean, but came down super pumped!! Lowering in slings sucks balls bigtime!! Lol.. I wasn't gonna do that again!
Sandra top roped it one more, and i wanted to hit the 10- that was already set up, but she was so tired she couldn't even belay.. Lol
I'm having total deja view with this shot. Does any one remember a metolious ad with a very similar photo?
Sandra absolutely hated the talus scramble.
She's not big on exposure, but i have a feeling we'll be dealing with that fear a bit this trip... Lol
The huge pack didn't help at all.
Looking back at the crag
The sunset was quite smokey thanks to the Weed fire?
We're on the road again. Heading south through Bend, then Reno. Tahoe here we come!!!!!
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mike m
Trad climber
black hills
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Sep 17, 2014 - 02:46pm PT
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Awesome shots! That place looks so much like Devil's Tower west face it is trippy. Same lichen, but wider cracks with sttep top outs. We have friends that moved to Weed, CA last year and were one block from the fire, but are apperently OK. Have fun on your trip.
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SC seagoat
Trad climber
Santa Cruz, Moab, Bozeman, the ocean, or ?
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Sep 17, 2014 - 02:54pm PT
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This TR is blowing me away already. Outstanding photos a million times "ditto". This is so much fun to follow and to think, that by next week we'll be tossing back beers! That is sooooo cool.
Geez, it looks downtown Seattle is in a building boom. Cranes all over.
See you soon!
Susan
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this just in
climber
Justin Ross from North Fork
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Sep 17, 2014 - 02:59pm PT
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Great pics, at least you remembered the most important piece of gear, your camera.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 17, 2014 - 04:03pm PT
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Awesome shots! That place looks so much like Devil's Tower west face it is trippy. Same lichen, but wider cracks with sttep top outs. We have friends that moved to Weed, CA last year and were one block from the fire, but are apperently OK. Have fun on your trip.
Thanks Mike! Devil's tower looks awesome! Stoked your weed friends are ok!
Definitely on the list! Don't think i've forgotten about your Squamish moderates thread. I've been collecting images for ya all season! ;) saving lots of content for winter when i'm not working..
Maybe next year you can come north and i can come south, we'll tie in and exchange beta!
This is so much fun to follow and to think, that by next week we'll be tossing back beers! That is sooooo cool .
Ya we will! Facelift Wooooooo!! ;)
Geez, it looks downtown Seattle is in a building boom. Cranes all over.
It's been like that for the past couple years!
Swami belt and/or webbing diaper I assume.
Something like that I guess. I didn't wanna cut my slings, so i took two shoulder length nylon slings and tied overhands in them to get the proper leg loop length, then passed a double shoulder length sling through them both and clipped it together with a locker. Nylon on nylon, not great i know, but i figured as long as i kept the rope fairly tight it wouldn't shift too much. I also backed the swami up with another double length sling girth hitched as a worst case scenario back up.
Yeah, we rapped/lowered in those all the time BITD.
Way to improvise Mike!
Thanks! No wonder they invented harnesses!! Lol Are you coming to facelift Tad? If not.... Vegas Baby!!!
You got it Justin! I have three of em' this trip! Lol :)
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skcreidc
Social climber
SD, CA
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Sep 17, 2014 - 04:15pm PT
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Yea!! Go Mike GO. It's getting harder and harder to find the end of this report and ... its just started!
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Fish Finder
climber
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Sep 17, 2014 - 04:39pm PT
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Slow Down
Think
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Ezra Ellis
Trad climber
North wet, and Da souf
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Sep 17, 2014 - 05:24pm PT
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Noice! Living the dream!!!
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Flip Flop
climber
Earth Planet, Universe
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Sep 17, 2014 - 08:49pm PT
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A poem by Gary Snyder
For All
Ah to be alive
on a mid-September morn
fording a stream
barefoot, pants rolled up,
holding boots, pack on,
sunshine, ice in the shallows,
northern rockies.
Rustle and shimmer of icy creek waters
stones turn underfoot, small and hard as toes
cold nose dripping
singing inside
creek music, heart music,
smell of sun on gravel.
I pledge allegiance
I pledge allegiance to the soil
of Turtle Island,
and to the beings who thereon dwell
one ecosystem
in diversity
under the sun
With joyful interpenetration for all.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 17, 2014 - 09:05pm PT
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Yea!! Go Mike GO. It's getting harder and harder to find the end of this report and ... its just started!
I know right?? I think i might break the tr format by the time i'm done! Lol
Tad- flowers?? Chocolate? Lol... Be real nice? Lol
Thanks Moose! See you soon bud!
Gregg- you know me too well.. Go go go! Oh crap! Lol
You know it ezra!
Cool poem flip flop! Thanks!
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RyanD
climber
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Sep 18, 2014 - 12:18am PT
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Nice Pics Big Mike! And great job Sandra going for it on some new stone! Have fun on the cathedral peak jugs!
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Leggs
Sport climber
Made in California, living in The Old Pueblo
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Sep 18, 2014 - 12:38am PT
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Best thread on the Taco.... by far.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 18, 2014 - 03:48am PT
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Yeehaw! Ryan!! Stoked!!
Thanks Leggs!
We made it to Strawberry! A 12.5 hour drive with a couple stops and it's 3 am all of a sudden? Lol. We found the cabin after a little misdirection by my phone.. Lol. Shoulda just used my own navigational skills.. Lol
Once i got out and scouted a bit, i figured it out pretty fast...
It was pretty wierd rolling past the caltrans blockade at south lake tahoe. The guy said "strawberry?, you just made it!" The smoke got a little thicker as we rolled over the hill, and i started thinking maybe we were a little too close for comfort? Lol
I'm really hoping we get some rain tomorrow... Normally i don't say that on climbing trips...
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Sep 18, 2014 - 07:24am PT
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I'm really hoping we get some rain tomorrow... Normally i don't say that on climbing trips...
Haha. This isn't a climbing trip, it's an odyssey. Anything goes. Sacrifice a goat to whoever makes the rain. A small goat.
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mouse from merced
Trad climber
The finger of fate, my friends, is fickle.
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Sep 18, 2014 - 10:13am PT
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Pysyche yourselves to do THE LINE.
There are enviable possibilities for shots under the teeny little rooves on that rowt, eh?
Like over to the Travelin' Buttress and down the canyon to the smoke-out.
See ya next week in YoYo land.
Outasite photos, Obigwan.
Sandra should lead The Line, dude. I wanna see a classy butt shot, hear?
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 18, 2014 - 11:45am PT
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Haha. This isn't a climbing trip, it's an odyssey. Anything goes. Sacrifice a goat to whoever makes the rain. A small goat.
Hmmm... Haven't seen any goats yet. Think the neighbours would mind? Lol
I certainly picked an appropriate name! Lol
Surely you're coming further south!!?
Yes sir!! We're scheduled for shuteye after facelift. End of the month and your bro just became way to busy to hang with his reno/flood...
Sandra should lead The Line, dude. I wanna see a classy butt shot, hear?
Lol. I think she's almost there. Gonna start with some nice mellow stuff today since we're both pretty bagged from driving...
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johntp
Trad climber
Punter, Little Rock
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Sep 18, 2014 - 12:19pm PT
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The smoke got a little thicker as we rolled over the hill
I guess you found the lighter...
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Mighty Hiker
climber
Outside the Asylum
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Sep 18, 2014 - 03:43pm PT
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Crag dog lovers, and haters, will now all bully me.
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HighTraverse
Trad climber
Bay Area
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Sep 18, 2014 - 04:18pm PT
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suck it up and work on your off width skillz
Traveler's Buttress will buttress your psyche.
Don't skip the first pitch which starts below Main Ledge. That will get your blood pumping.
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johntp
Trad climber
Punter, Little Rock
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Sep 18, 2014 - 06:25pm PT
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I would watch that Ryan guy. He can't keep a secret.
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Sep 18, 2014 - 06:31pm PT
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There could've been some goat in that sausage.
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Wayno
Big Wall climber
Republic, WA
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Sep 18, 2014 - 10:54pm PT
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It's ok Tami, I lent Mike my Tommy-gun and about a hunnerd rounds. He said he was going to see Ron.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 19, 2014 - 12:19am PT
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Do Haystack Mike- a Lovely line with an airy lil roof -hidden bucket at the lip- up and Left...;-)
This one's on the list for sure!!
I guess you found the lighter..
Lol
Well let's climb some pitches so I can be too busy to help him with his renovation/flood haha.
Yeehaw buddy! Sounds like a plan! Wanna play host too? Lol
Crag dog lovers, and haters, will now all bully me.
Lol! Watch out Anders! Goatboy have your butt for this one!!! Lol
suck it up and work on your off width skillz
Lol.. We'll see if she bites on this idea.. Lol
I would watch that Ryan guy. He can't keep a secret.
I know right! Lol.. Jeeze Ryan! Lol
There could've been some goat in that sausage.
There we go Andy. Things cooled down a bit today, and it seems like they had a good day fighting the fire. We had air company all day long at Chuck's cabin in Strawberry and they seem to have it stopped temporarily between two reservoirs.
We'll see if the boys can hold the line tonight without air support. So far no structures lost which is incredible considering this thing was over 70'000 acres as of this morning!
That sunset pic above is awesome, Mike. You 'n' Sandra be safe out there. Yer inna Murrica :-D Big hugs to you both.
Thanks Tami!! We will! More worried about fire at the moment though... Lol. It seems like we're out of harms way for now, but it's just spooky to pass through the fire checkpoint on our way out of south lake tahoe knowing the road is closed not far beyond us.
Wayno: me and Ron would have a frickin' blast with that thing! Lol i'm certain of it!
Yesterday was a long day in the car.. I fared pretty well body wise with little to no pain though, so I must say, I'm pretty stoked.
I took a couple shots on out drive of course.. Lol all these are s110 photos except for the first one .
Our campsite at Trout Creek
The road back to civilization.
Since we had driven in under cover of darkness, we had yet to see the sights, so we stopped a bit on the way out.
The hills are lined with choss...
We both thought this train bridge was pretty cool.
So many cool formations.. So much choss..
Sandra posing with the bridge
This is the result of my "hold the camera out the window, and see what you get" trick. Worked out pretty good this time...
This cool tunnel is one of key route markers.
The guide is available on the web in pdf format. It's quite good.
#31 Fremont hwy past lapine, was miles and miles of this:
We went past silver lake, but i'm pretty sure i didn't see any water... In fact i don't even remember noticing the barren lake bed...
Then we went past summer lake. I noticed the wind picking up a huge plume of dust, and sweeping it across the barren plains. I couldn't comprehend this sight. I thought, what is it? Salt flats? I didn't think they extended this far north..
It finally clicked when we hit Goose lake.. I thought wtf? Another giant barren plains?? We stopped at a pull out and there was a sign that said, Goose lake. Holy crap!! This drought is crazy!!
Goose "lake"
Clouds just past Goose plains, this was directly north of the king fire, so probably some fire effect going on here.
Sandra Topolay photo
We had dinner at a sweet little Mexican place in Alturas, and then punched through to Tahoe. We arrived at about 2:00am and spend a half hour or so being lost on the wrong road.. Lol
As a result we were pretty tired today and despite my efforts to get out Sandra was having none of it.
She passed out after brunch and wouldn't get up till 4:30.. Lol. I didn't push her much because she's pretty useless when she doesn't get her sleep... Lol
Anyways, time to hit the fart sack so we can get up and have a big day tomorrow.
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Sep 19, 2014 - 06:01am PT
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We all need sleep. Here's to a good day. Nice to see Trout Creek again. I've also seen that dusty air along that route, and from the plane Vegas-to-Vancouver.
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drljefe
climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
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Sep 19, 2014 - 06:50am PT
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Be safe and have fun!
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RyanD
climber
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Sep 19, 2014 - 10:21am PT
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Lol Jefe's meme. Too perfect.
That's right John, I can't keep a secret at all.
Now gimme sum mo clymin pix b4 I tellem aboot ur seekret plan to clime Werners wiggle on Lembert domer!
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Sep 19, 2014 - 01:20pm PT
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Too funny. But Odysseus prob'ly drank some.
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HighTraverse
Trad climber
Bay Area
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Sep 19, 2014 - 01:34pm PT
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Hey Mike
Not to worry too much about Goose Lake. It is highly variable.
The lake completely dried up in the years 1851, 1852, 1926, 1929–1934, 1992,[5] 2009[6] and 2013. Formerly, Goose Lake was the regular source of the Pit River, which flows into California's Sacramento River, but water diversion has caused the lake level to drop below its outlet. The Pit River's source is now south of Goose Lake and the lake's salinity is increasing, threatening fish populations. During rare high water levels, Goose Lake still spills into the Pit River.[ Diverting it's tributaries for irrigation isn't helping.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 19, 2014 - 06:57pm PT
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We managed to get out today! ;)
Sandra practicing her gear belays at the top of Hogsback.
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labrat
Trad climber
Erik O. Auburn, CA
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Sep 19, 2014 - 03:04pm PT
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Lovers Leap! Great place for trad learning and having fun!
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Vegasclimber
Trad climber
Las Vegas, NV.
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Sep 19, 2014 - 05:10pm PT
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BAHAHAHAHA Jefe, awesome.
Way to go you two! Loving the updates. See ya soooooon :D
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Jingy
climber
Random Nobody
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Sep 19, 2014 - 05:47pm PT
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My vote for best TR of the year, so far.
Keep on it!!!
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MisterE
Gym climber
Small Town with a Big Back Yard
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Sep 19, 2014 - 08:45pm PT
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Look out for the wild native Norwegian in that area.
He is the one that drinks your beer, sends your projects solo, and blows your mind.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 19, 2014 - 11:36pm PT
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We all need sleep.
Lol. Yes sir. I seem to be better at depriving myself of it then most... Doesn't mean i'm better off for it though.. Lol
Lol!!! Sick Meme Jefe! I probably shouldn't have chosen the tr format for this one... Lol what can i say. I like to push limits..
Now gimme sum mo clymin pix b4 I tellem aboot ur seekret plan to clime Werners wiggle on Lembert domer!
Now i have to do Werner's Wiggle?? Damn! :)
We'll see about some climbing pix for ya.. Rock might be all u get tonight.. Lol
Lol mh2..
Ht.. Just trippy to see an empty lake when you live on the wet coast.. Sure is dry down here.. Stealing water from tributaries certainly doesn't help..
Lovers Leap! Great place for trad learning and having fun!
Ya Labrat! Super sick spot for some mellow trad or balls to the walls runout fun alike! :)
Thanks for the offer Moose. Weege has a super sweet pad up here in strawberry, that's 3 mins from the leap, so we're gonna have to pass this time... I'm gonna get there soon.
Thinking woodfest this spring maybe?
Travis!! We gotta tie in, together in yos bro. Let's make it happen!
My vote for best TR of the year, so far.
High praise! Thanks Jingy! Hope you are well!!!
Look out for the wild native Norwegian in that area.
He is the one that drinks your beer, sends your projects solo, and blows your mind.
Lol! I know him well! We're supposed to climb tomorrow and he might be coming up to stay at his cabin with us tonight..
Which reminds me... Sh!t! I didn't hide the booze yet!! Lol
So, yesterday was rest day. Bigtime.. Lol Sandra slept and I supertopo'd.. Lol
When I finally got her butt out of bed, we went to South Lake Tahoe to do laundry and I picked a laundromat near the lake so i stretch my 6d's legs a little since the s110 seems to be getting most of the action so far..
We stopped briefly at a pullout just past Strawberry lodge so I could shoot the main wall basking in the late afternoon sun.
Hogsback silouetted by fire smoke.
Lake Tahoe was a little smoky..
I presume normally it's a little more scenic? Lol
North Lake Tahoe residents were not happy campers yesterday!!
Cairn, docks and a king fire.
Closeup
Just a wee bit o' smoke...
Nature at work
Turn on the lights so they can see us!!!!
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Wayno
Big Wall climber
Republic, WA
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Sep 19, 2014 - 11:48pm PT
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Wow Mike, those are some spooky shots of fire weather. That first shot of the Leap Main wall is stellar. That's a money shot.
Happy Trails.
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RyanD
climber
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Sep 20, 2014 - 12:01am PT
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Ohhhh lovers leap pics are cool, nice Mike. Good to see u guys enjoying the stone.
And I wouldn't recommend Werners wiggle either, unless you have cowboy boots.
Do south crack or west crack instead. Better yet RR fairview!! Sandra is looking on point, you guys will cruise it! Super jealous, some of my favourite places, have fun!
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Relic
Social climber
Weenie
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Sep 20, 2014 - 12:21am PT
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!!!!!1111!!1111!11!!!!!!!!!!!!!1!1!1
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Sep 20, 2014 - 07:22am PT
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Really nice thinking and delivery in those shots, Mike.
As an older guy I've also learned to like the way this TR takes longer and longer to load. A few extra seconds to relax and not click click click type type type tap tap tap. We will be well trained in patience pretty soon.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 20, 2014 - 11:54am PT
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Weege showed up!! :)
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H
Mountain climber
there and back again
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Sep 20, 2014 - 01:13pm PT
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Big hugs you guys. Great trip report. And good looking road-trip vehicle. You went through Bend, but I did not see any Smith Rock photos????? Love that place. I hope it not too late to get Corrugation Corner done. Free camping at Phantom Spires too.
Getting closer!!!!!!!! I hope to see you at Yellow pines Monday night. great that your coming.
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briham89
Big Wall climber
santa cruz, ca
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Sep 20, 2014 - 02:57pm PT
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This TR is rad!!! Carry on....
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Jaybro
Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
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Sep 20, 2014 - 03:23pm PT
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Nice stuff, keep 'em coming! This ongoing uncoiling of the adventure, as it happens is what it's all about!
I'm enmeshed in my own adventures right now, and can't make facelift,this year, as much as I would like to! But I'm digging seeing it through your own eyes! Glad that weeg is part of the mix!
Carry on! Cheers to all! Keep us posted!
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H
Mountain climber
there and back again
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Sep 20, 2014 - 06:06pm PT
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You'll be missed Jaybro.
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Norwegian
Trad climber
dancin on the tip of god's middle finger
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Sep 20, 2014 - 06:35pm PT
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i admit it i'm a spiritual hitchiker
got no ride of my own
so i find interstellar folks
and rub dreams against theirs
and i admire the pretty
sparks that become my life and
their's.
sandra and mike are good people.
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Studly
Trad climber
WA
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Sep 20, 2014 - 07:29pm PT
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Awesome. Get to vicariously live a climbing trip at my desk and even climb with Norwegian. Rad.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 21, 2014 - 12:49am PT
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Wow Mike, those are some spooky shots of fire weather.
Ya, it was ominously beautiful.
That first shot of the Leap Main wall is stellar. That's a money shot.
I'm pretty tickled pink with that one too.. Can't wait to work with the raw files!
Do south crack or west crack instead. Better yet RR fairview!! Sandra is looking on point, you guys will cruise it! Super jealous, some of my favourite places, have fun!
Oh man!! If i can talk her into fairview i'll be so stoked!!! We're getting there i think..
Relic, wish you were here bro! You guys gotta make it to vegas while i'm there!!
Really nice thinking and delivery in those shots, Mike.
Thanks Andy! As you can see i'm really stoked on shadows these days! ;)
Big hugs you guys. Great trip report. And good looking road-trip vehicle. You went through Bend, but I did not see any Smith Rock photos????? Love that place. I hope it not too late to get Corrugation Corner done. Free camping at Phantom Spires too.
Yeah, we chose Trout Creek over Smith on the way down, but i think we might hit it up on the way home!
I dunno about Corrugation this trip. I'm afraid we're running short on time. We thought about staying an extra day but we were enticed to continue with our original plan by Plaidman this evening.
It's thundering here at the moment, and a little wet.. Hopefully the fire gets lots of water, and then it dries up so we can climb... Lol
If we're not there on monday, call sar. We'll be stuck on cathedral somewhere.. Lol
Nice stuff, keep 'em coming! This ongoing uncoiling of the adventure, as it happens is what it's all about!
Thanks Jaybro. I needed phone service for work and i've been itching to do a proper live trip report for awhile. I'm stoked to be able to bring some facelift action to the taco as it happens!
Next year! You can skule me on some wide.. Lol
i admit it i'm a spiritual hitchiker
got no ride of my own
so i find interstellar folks
and rub dreams against theirs
and i admire the pretty
sparks that become my life and
their's.
sandra and mike are good people.
You have a trip all of your own bro! It was great to hang again today. Too bad we couldn't see the girls! Tell them i wish i could give em big hugs!! Thanks for your hospitality dude! Your good peeps too.. Don't ever let your wife say different.. Lol
Sorry I can't add more ; pretty fried from a day at work. Crows gathering on the highskool next to us. Classes finally will start on Monday. The strike is over. Crows will fly to Bby Lake ; students sleep fitful knowing they Gotta Go Back.
Thanks Tami! Does that mean you are more or less busy ?? :) are we gonna have to change the facelift dates to get you down here? Lol
Let's hang again soon!!
Awesome. Get to vicariously live a climbing trip at my desk and even climb with Norwegian. Rad.
Thanks Studly!! Weege is a super good dude! And hella bold too! I might never get the opportunity to do the climb we did today again! I don't think i could lead it. Maybe pre injury , but it just ain't worth it for me to stick my neck out like that anymore..
So some of you may have noticed this report still isn't exactly 100% live all the time, but i'm doing my best to keep up. I'm committed to posting live from the crag whenever i get a chance, but i gotta wait till i get back to base camp to get images off my point and shoot.
Yesterday we hit up Hogsback.
What a beautiful mellow crag.
On the approach we were following another party, but we passed them when they stopped to check out the first crack on the left. They asked what our plan was, to which i replied knapsack, and the gentlemen said, this is it no? I told him no, it definitely wasn't, it was a lot more obvious than that! Lol
So we got to the base first.
They told us when they got there that it was their first lead, and said they would wait for us. "We'll probably be a little faster than you.. I said. Lol
Knapsack Crack 5.5
Sandra popping over the lip on Knapsack
Topping out
I thought this Juniper stump was pretty.
East wall basking in the early afternoon sun.
We messed around at the top a bit, but the party behind us was just finishing their second pitch. By the time we'd eaten lunch they were almost finished. Glad we didn't get stuck behind them! Lol
Then we did Deception 5.6.
Sandra following p1
Leading out on p2
Getting some gear in for the traverse
Enjoying the gravy climbing.
When she got to the traverse, she stayed left up this really crappy shallow seam, and refused to go right, despite my insistence.
Of course when things started looking desperate, all of a sudden, she was all ears.. Lol. She has this thing about swing falls. She'll do 5.10+ on a five six climb to avoid a mini runout slab traverse.. Lol
I ended up lowering her off her last piece to get back to the dike she was supposed to climb in the first place, and then she had to climb that corner unprotected as to not rope drag herself anymore! Lol
I pointed out to her after, that she actually put herself in far more danger that way than she would have if she simply bucked up and did the move.
She also left some gear at the belay, and as she was pulling crux roof, had nothing to place. Then looked back at me and said "I have no gear!" To which i replied. " well you left a bunch here with me?? I asked you if you wanted it!! Lol
She got it done, and her headspace was a little better off for it.
East, Center and Main wall.
The winds blew the smoke in, quite viciously.
Main wall shrouded in a smokey glaze.
One more day here!! Hopefully the landscape sucks up this moisture we had tonight!!
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MisterE
Gym climber
Small Town with a Big Back Yard
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Sep 21, 2014 - 08:18am PT
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Norwegian is looking like he just stepped out of Yosemite in the 60's...LOL!
Great shots Mike and Sandra - keep 'em coming!
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murcy
Gym climber
sanfrancisco
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Sep 21, 2014 - 09:06am PT
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Awesome stuff---pics and words (well, apart from all that LOLing at yourself, which sets my curmudgeonly teeth on edge, lol). Great stoke. Thanks!
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Marlow
Sport climber
OSLO
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Sep 21, 2014 - 09:10am PT
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This thread was born as a classic among classics, creme de la creme...
Some stunning photography.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 21, 2014 - 03:34pm PT
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Here's a couple more from yesterday.
Sandra on Hogsback showing off her gobies.
Shadow selfie
We got out for a quick pitch today... Almost before the rain..
Kev asked why she looks so pissed off all the time.. Lol It's probably because she's sick of me shoving a camera in her face constantly...
She does like to see the pics later though!
I've had several complaints about the length of this tr now.. I agree it's a bit of a gong show, but i was sick of using the thread function for my live tr's because: They only seem to attract a select audience, and they get buried super easy. If you look at my profile, it looks as if i never post any because they are all in threads!
I really don't want to start a new report halfway through, so i think the only way to solve this dilemma is for those who would enjoy being able to skip to the end, to ask the mods to modify the tr function so it does that when you click the numbers just like a thread would, or segment it into pages when it goes over say, 100 posts??
Obviously if things don't change, i won't set it up this way next time. Bed's made now though. Time to lie in it.
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kaholatingtong
Trad climber
The fake McCoy from nevernever land.
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Sep 21, 2014 - 07:20pm PT
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Good stuff Mike. I like your TRs. Full of the good stuff, and they stick around, like good content should. I should have said hey last year at the Facelift. I recognized you one evening during a break in the films, outside sitting with a lady. You seemed engrossed, and I was enjoying my beer in the night air away from people for a few. Forgive me I am shy, another time.
edit : Lovers is awesome. Must-climb rock.
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Charlie D.
Trad climber
Western Slope, Tahoe Sierra
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Sep 21, 2014 - 04:39pm PT
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Ha! sorry I missed you Mike, I've been preoccupied with this King Fire down here in Camino, have fun!!!
Charlie D.
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RyanD
climber
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Sep 21, 2014 - 05:20pm PT
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Haha I'm looking at this on my phone & my thumb is pumped from scrolling down!!
Knapsack crack is the only route I've done at lovers, need to go back.
Rad stuff
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Flip Flop
climber
Earth Planet, Universe
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Sep 21, 2014 - 07:50pm PT
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Big Mike and Sandra,
Keep up the fine TR. It's great fun, not too long at all and it's practically the only climbing content on the first page. Rock on.
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this just in
climber
Justin Ross from North Fork
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Sep 21, 2014 - 08:15pm PT
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Jeez Mike, pretty dick move making me scroll through climbing and traveling pics . Please keep that on the Squeamish thread .
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Fritz
Social climber
Choss Creek, ID
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Sep 21, 2014 - 08:28pm PT
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Big Mike! Dooooode! Great thread, but my Verizon wireless internet is not loading your (always wonderful) photos.
Does your phone give you a choice of posting smaller images like my S4 does?
In any event! Have fun!
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JOEY.F
Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
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Sep 21, 2014 - 09:17pm PT
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Lots of fun following along virtually. See you two in Yeller Pines, drag Weege with you.
Cheers to your trip!
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mike m
Trad climber
black hills
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Sep 22, 2014 - 08:20am PT
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Those pano pictures of the Leap are awesome. Went there with my wife about 15 years ago and did a couple of easy routes, but wish I would have hit a few more. Deffinately need to get back there with the family. I think that Ruby might even boot up for some of those.
Also we dopped a camera on a popular 5.6 to the left of The Line so if you find a disposable camera at the base let me know.
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HighTraverse
Trad climber
Bay Area
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Sep 22, 2014 - 08:51am PT
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Stoked!
Regarding the pics.
Yeah, the SuperTopo website could do a better job of TR's just by breaking them into pages like the Bitch and Moan threads.
It's bad enough even on a relatively fast connection and a "real" computer. Fuggedabboudit on a phone.
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mike m
Trad climber
black hills
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Sep 22, 2014 - 09:03am PT
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^^^^Agreed, or just have it go to the end when you click on it or go to the start and have and "end" or "last" button.
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pc
climber
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Sep 22, 2014 - 09:11am PT
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Coffee and this great TR. Good Monday morning.
Cheers!
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survival
Big Wall climber
Terrapin Station
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Sep 22, 2014 - 09:12am PT
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Great stuff all the way around!
My favorites are the Central Oregon shots. I spent many formative epics of my youth hoofing it around obscure crags in Central O. I still go back whenever I can.
Keep it up team!
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Roots
Mountain climber
Somewhere Fun
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Sep 23, 2014 - 10:05am PT
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Good stuff..keep posting!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 23, 2014 - 07:35pm PT
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Ok. Cell service had been crap since i got to the park. I'm at valley uprising right now. Too much having fun, to post. As it should be!!!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 24, 2014 - 05:31pm PT
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Posting live!! Where from??
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supafly
Trad climber
vancouver, bc
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Sep 24, 2014 - 05:40pm PT
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swan slab!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 24, 2014 - 08:05pm PT
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Nope.. Not far off though....
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kaholatingtong
Trad climber
The fake McCoy from nevernever land.
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Sep 24, 2014 - 08:07pm PT
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regular route at the bench?
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Studly
Trad climber
WA
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Sep 24, 2014 - 08:58pm PT
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Cracking your nuts?
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 24, 2014 - 11:50pm PT
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Kahola got it!!
It was pretty fun, but also pretty hot. More on that later.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 25, 2014 - 07:00am PT
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It's been hard to keep up wirh cell service the way it is at yp. Hopefully tonight i can get anothet report done. Thanks for your comments everyone!
Awesome pics of the leap! That place is super unique.
Thanks Weston! We wanted to stay another day, but other plans were calling!
Norwegian is looking like he just stepped out of Yosemite in the 60's...LOL!
Ya right! Lol. I said to him, that shirt was very Bridwell of him..
Awesome stuff---pics and words (well, apart from all that LOLing at yourself, which sets my curmudgeonly teeth on edge, lol). Great stoke. Thanks!
Thanks Murcy! I myself have noticed while scrolling through this thread every day how annoying that can be.. Lol :) i will make an effort not to abuse it as much in the future. It certainly isn't great literary style..
Thanks Marlow. I'm pretty stoked with the results from my new hardware also.
I should have said hey last year at the Facelift. I recognized you one evening during a break in the films, outside sitting with a lady. You seemed engrossed, and I was enjoying my beer in the night air away from people for a few. Forgive me I am shy, another time.
All good dude! I did the same thing with plaidman last year! Saw him in the grocery store but felt weird about approaching him.. "Hey you plaidman??" ;) i used to be super shy when i was a kid. Getting bolder all the time these days..
Ha! sorry I missed you Mike, I've been preoccupied with this King Fire down here in Camino, have fun!!! Dude! No need to apologize! This fire has thrown everyone for a loop! I wish you guys the best of luck with this beast!
Haha I'm looking at this on my phone & my thumb is pumped from scrolling down!!
Knapsack crack is the only route I've done at lovers, need to go back.
Rad stuff
LOL! I feel the same way bro! You need to come climb Fantasia bro! I know the way!!
Big Mike and Sandra,
Keep up the fine TR. It's great fun, not too long at all and it's practically the only climbing content on the first page. Rock on.
Thanks Flip Flop! I'm stoked to bring climbing to the fore front again!!
Jeez Mike, pretty dick move making me scroll through climbing and traveling pics . Please keep that on the Squeamish thread .
LOL! No crap.. Jeeze the nerve of me posting climbing content!! Lol
Big Mike! Dooooode! Great thread, but my Verizon wireless internet is not loading your (always wonderful) photos.
Does your phone give you a choice of posting smaller images like my S4 does?
Sorry Fritz! I post everything to flickr and then choose 800x600 except for panos which just have to be bigger.
I'm not a big fan of the supertopo photo gallery because my pics always look worse after it's downsized them.
Lots of fun following along virtually. See you two in Yeller Pines, drag Weege with you.
Cheers to your trip!
Thanks Joey! Looking forward to seeing you. I wish Chuck could come, but life intervenes. He said his lovely wife wanted to come so maybe next year they'll make it.
Those pano pictures of the Leap are awesome. Went there with my wife about 15 years ago and did a couple of easy routes, but wish I would have hit a few more. Deffinately need to get back there with the family. I think that Ruby might even boot up for some of those.
Land of the Moderates Mike!! Jack would lap it up buddy! He could lead tons of stuff there!
Also we dopped a camera on a popular 5.6 to the left of The Line so if you find a disposable camera at the base let me know.
Lol. Sorry. No dice on the camera. I'm sure someone found it.
Just to go on record.. I don't expect supertopo to change for me.. Just suggesting ways to improve the
Tr function a little since I seem to be pushing it's boundaries..... ;)
My favorites are the Central Oregon shots. I spent many formative epics of my youth hoofing it around obscure crags in Central O. I still go back whenever I can.
Thanks Bruce! Did you guys know about trout back then? It seems like it was the metolious private crag for a bit there.
Thanks for the bump Roots! Will we see you at FL this year?
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skcreidc
Social climber
SD, CA
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Sep 25, 2014 - 02:37pm PT
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Whew!!! I'm exhausted just getting through these posts. Excellent TR so far
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 26, 2014 - 12:56pm PT
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So i finally had some time to get some photos edited last night. Not that i didn't catch sh!t for it from fellow campfire denizens. I was enjoying listing to music and editing photos since conversation was utterly pointless over the music.
But as soon as people see you on your phone... The give you crap.. I gotta do it sometime if i'm gonna do this live people! Lol
This morning i got Sandra to hang around the village a little longer than she would have liked, so i could get them uploaded and grab img tags from flickr..
Chuck showed up late Saturday morning. We were in lazy mode since we hadn't heard from him yet.
Chuck's cabin.
Chuck and his custom railing.
We planned to do Fantasia, since it was a weekend and would probably be quite busy on most other routes.
We stopped at the store to check it out.
Sandra and Chuck at the Strawberry Station
The microbus
Chuck and Sandra comparing buttons. ;)
Then we made our way to the wall.
East wall and Corrugation Corner
Weege racking up
Starting up Fantasia 5.9
Pantomiming the crux beta mid pitch.
Calm, cool and collected. 40 feet up, no gear.
Almost to the first piece!
Finally stuffing some gear in the corner.
This is one of those dnf routes...
Damn i shoulda slung those pieces longer... Not used to having a belayer!
Sandra on the traverse
Stoked to be at p1 of fantasia!
Norwegian Photo
Too many good photos to post em all at the same time. More soon.
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RyanD
climber
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Sep 26, 2014 - 01:34pm PT
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Sick stone! Isn't the granite there unreal?!?!
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Sep 26, 2014 - 05:19pm PT
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Yes, more photos, please. They look great but I am puzzled that Norwegian is carrying a bunch of gear while in the photos I can only see one piece placed.
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Sep 27, 2014 - 05:25am PT
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hey there say, ... big hey there to big mike and sandra... :)
great thread/posts...
:)
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Gnome Ofthe Diabase
climber
Out Of Bed
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Sep 27, 2014 - 05:39am PT
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Late to thee partyee.,,,
oh well fighting the spam and that said
Bid you good nite bid you good night
bid you good night
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kaholatingtong
Trad climber
The fake McCoy from nevernever land.
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Sep 27, 2014 - 06:32am PT
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weight training, MH2 :D
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Captain...or Skully
climber
Boise, ID
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Sep 27, 2014 - 06:43am PT
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Man, ya'll sure get around, huh? Extreme TR, Big Mike.
TFPU!!!$!!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 27, 2014 - 02:26pm PT
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The p1 anchor is where i started to get a little nervous. A 30 foot factor 2 onto one decent bolt was a very real possibility here. I'll fix that bolt myself next time i'm down if someone else doesn't get to it first!
Weege starting out on p2
Of course the route traverses right over the belayer's head..
Without any pro.... Factor two Mike loved that... You got this thing wired right weege? ;)
Sling a knob anyone? Looks real solid.....
Please don't fall on this anchor! That smc hanger and rusted bolt, creeped me out.
Sandra fixed on her leader.
Shadow selfie, with the sills.
P2 was super fun.
Sandra Topolay photo
Weege sorting ropes at the p2 belay
Scimitar and Main Wall
Gotta have a tall can at the second belay...
Cheers!
Weege stepping out on p2
Which way do i go again???.....
I thought you had this wired bro! ;)
Working the corner....
Negotiating the roof
Me following p3
Norwegian Photo
Norwegian smoke selfie
Norwegian Photo
We had lots of fun with Chuck. Thanks for the belays bro! And the awesome hospitality!!
We are standing in a huge line at the deli right now....
Sick stone! Isn't the granite there unreal?!?!
Ya bud. Can't wait to get back there!!
Yes, more photos, please. They look great but I am puzzled that Norwegian is carrying a bunch of gear while in the photos I can only see one piece placed.
Yes. He used everything he brought, but very little of it worked for each pitch.. Lol
hey there say, ... big hey there to big mike and sandra... :)
great thread/posts...
Thanks Neebs! Wish you were here!
Late to thee partyee.,,,
oh well fighting the spam and that said
Bid you good nite bid you good night
bid you good night
Well, since the party is happening for another week, i'd say your on time! ;)
weight training, MH2 :D Lol.. No that's what the tall can is for..
We're trying Kurt! Live life now! I've got it back... Might as well use it!! Where the heck are you bud?
Fantasia Bitchin!
More Leap pics when ya get time please,
Is Weeg draggin a 40 oz. up?
TR of the year in progress,
Thanks Mike.
Tad is the only one who noticed the tall can?? Lol. He asked if we had a shoulder sling, and we said of course. Next thing i know he's sending p1 with a can hanging off his harness! Lol
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Norwegian
Trad climber
dancin on the tip of god's middle finger
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Sep 27, 2014 - 07:00pm PT
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gee mike
i'm flattered for the air time.
it's like fanfare for the common idiot
you trip is shaking out nicely.
let me know if you pass
thru our area again and we could
grab lunch or some more pitches.
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this just in
climber
Justin Ross from North Fork
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Sep 27, 2014 - 07:05pm PT
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A 30 foot factor 2 Factor 2 Mike!!!
Need to climb with that weege guy. Mike I think you've climbed in more CA areas than I have, Haha. Good sh#t man.
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Norwegian
Trad climber
dancin on the tip of god's middle finger
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Sep 27, 2014 - 08:23pm PT
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19 months later, mike.
you've authored a thorough and respectable recovery.
my admiration and respect is all yours.
and sandra too, for all that she has done by your side.
a hero's story, unfolding everywhere.
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Sep 27, 2014 - 08:39pm PT
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Norwegian does climbing proud. Makes a photographer smile, too.
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Jingy
climber
Random Nobody
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Sep 27, 2014 - 08:58pm PT
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Grand Slam home run Trip Report!!!
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Charlie D.
Trad climber
Western Slope, Tahoe Sierra
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Sep 28, 2014 - 07:18am PT
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Great TR Mike, glad you had a fine time in our beloved "Trench". Great rock, tagging a historic route and sharing your time with the ever colorful Norwegian.....you're living right bro.
Charlie D.
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johntp
Trad climber
Punter, Little Rock
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Sep 28, 2014 - 06:37pm PT
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Stopped by yeller pines a couple times. Looks like it was not in the cards. Cheers
My phone hurts.
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OR
Trad climber
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Sep 28, 2014 - 06:44pm PT
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Just posting in this kick ass TR…..post…..Nice trip for a nice looking couple and Weeg rules.
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Fritz
Social climber
Choss Creek, ID
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Sep 28, 2014 - 07:37pm PT
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Woohoo! For Big Mike, Sandra, & Norweeegian!
I loved your photos of that lad leading.
Were those belay anchor bolts 3/8" as I would assume these days, or left over 1/4" bolts from my old daze?
Climb more & Post more!
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mouse from merced
Trad climber
The finger of fate, my friends, is fickle.
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Sep 29, 2014 - 01:15am PT
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Toque is said like "took." Or "bewk" as it comes out of the BC mouth.
Sandra tewk MFM along for the ride to search for her toque, which was lost Monday night in the dark at a pullout "ten minutes up from Crane Flat," according to TripMaster Mikey.
It was not found. Somebody must have took her toque. Her mom crocheted it for her.
On their way to Sunnyside Bench. Outside YOSAR's HQ.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 1, 2014 - 07:17am PT
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Scott came to visit us at weege's cabin our last night there.
That night it poured, and we were happy because they really need the moisture down here but hoped it would dry up enough for us to get a few pitches in. When we awoke, the deck was dry so we went for it.
Sandra leading just acquaintances 5.6 in the rain.
I had her clip the bolt when it started getting really wet. Then after i lowered her, it stopped.....
So she went back up
Stemming it out at the top.
Getting it done, despite the moisture!
Big Mike following a very wet route... Sandra Topolay photo
Rappin' in the rain
Sandra Topolay photo
We stopped in South Lake Tahoe to re-provision and took the pass to Markleeville, and the next one over to 395.
The views were quite stunning. Too bad it was so late.
Sandra Topolay photo
On the way to Markleyville
On the high pass to 395
Sandra Topolay photo
Sandra Topolay photo
Currently on wifi in my swank hotel room in Oakhurst. More on that in a bit .
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Sep 30, 2014 - 07:10pm PT
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gee mike
i'm flattered for the air time.
it's like fanfare for the common idiot
you trip is shaking out nicely.
let me know if you pass
thru our area again and we could
grab lunch or some more pitches.
Your boldness and sense of adventure shines through in the photos sir. I only captured that essence in 1's and 0's to display here. Yours was the feat of creation, weaving reality between the far away placements.
Factor 2 Mike!!!
Need to climb with that weege guy. Mike I think you've climbed in more CA areas than I have, Haha. Good sh#t man.
Lol ya you do Justin! You guys would have a blast together! Make it happen. Go rip up the Leap!!
As to my sampling of areas.. What can i say? I'm a sucker for cliffs and I don't feel like i have any time to waste anymore. Carpe Diem.
19 months later, mike.
you've authored a thorough and respectable recovery.
my admiration and respect is all yours.
and sandra too, for all that she has done by your side.
a hero's story, unfolding everywhere.
While the effort was all mine, i feel very lucky that i was left with enough function to make it happen again. Sandra played a starring role in my recovery. I'm certain it would have been infinitely more difficult without her assistance.
Norwegian does climbing proud. Makes a photographer smile, too.
Yes sir he does. Man knows where the camera is. What i've shown here is just a sampling of an amazing series of photos.
Grand Slam home run Trip Report!!!
Thanks Jingy!!
Great TR Mike, glad you had a fine time in our beloved "Trench". Great rock, tagging a historic route and sharing your time with the ever colorful Norwegian.....you're living right bro.
Charlie D.
Thanks Charlie! I feel blessed to know him. I look forward to meeting you in the future. When the king is not squatting on your doorstep of course.
Stopped by yeller pines a couple times. Looks like it was not in the cards. Cheers
My phone hurts.
Bummer John!! That sucks we missed you! Sorry about your phone!!! Lol
Great times camping with Mike and Sandra the last 3 nights. My kind of people. This TR just about kicked my computer's ass and it's worse on my phone.
It was awesome to hang with you and Nita man! You guys rock! Literally!
Just posting in this kick ass TR…..post…..Nice trip for a nice looking couple and Weeg rules.
Thanks dude! We needed this trip after all the trauma we've been through!
Woohoo! For Big Mike, Sandra, & Norweeegian!
I loved your photos of that lad leading.
Were those belay anchor bolts 3/8" as I would assume these days, or left over 1/4" bolts from my old daze?
Climb more & Post more!
They were both 3/8ths. One was brand new, one definitely older. With all the ice and snow that cliff sees i'd hate to see what that spinner looks like..
IT WUZ FREEZIN !!!!!!!!!!! But how often do ya get a post-equinox swim in the saltchuck !?!?!
WHeeeee !!!!! All the best to you guys & other brats I know down there. Like Anders :-)
Lol! I bet it wuz cold! How long did you stay in?? Lol
Mouse!! Those pics are awesome man!! Especially the one of us and Werner and Merry!! Download Lightroom for that computer and i'll getcha set up!
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Sep 30, 2014 - 07:41pm PT
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Warms the heart. Thanks, Mike, Sandra, and Mouse.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 1, 2014 - 08:05am PT
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Thanks for putting up with this monstrosity Andy!
Here's your reward.
A couple shots from our bivy in Tuloumne.
Super happy I brought my 6d!!
^^ Cathedral Peak
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Vitaliy M.
Mountain climber
San Francisco
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Awesome you are having fun! Wish our schedule aligned...I guess it has to be Red Rocks...
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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The whole thread's a reward, Mike. i have no trouble with the size. A nice quiet less-than-a-minute wait and then hit end.
Funny when I Googled for 'How to photograph the Milky Way' the 6D came up a lot.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 1, 2014 - 06:10pm PT
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Posting live from Big Sleep!!! Sandra swapped pitches on her first pg-13 route!!
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johntp
Trad climber
Punter, Little Rock
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My phone just puked.
Cheers Mike and Sandra.
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bluering
Trad climber
Santa Clara, CA
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Bitchin' TR and road trip Sandra and Mike!
Awesome you guys made it to The Leap. That place is awesome. Very unique features on that stone.
Cool too that Weege hooked up with y'all. Good shit!
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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hey there say, big mike and sandra...
wow, thank you being on the facelift card!!!!!!
part of YOUR EPIC trip here, overflowed to me, now,
in a new way--not email, BUT AS TO MAIL, :))
EDIT:
WOW, these pics on this thread are so wonderful, great camera stuff...
thanks for sharing all this, big mike/sandra, and everyone!
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mouse from merced
Trad climber
The finger of fate, my friends, is fickle.
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How did you make that photo, neebee? Interesting. Nice.
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donini
Trad climber
Ouray, Colorado
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Wow Mike....you and Sandra are living the life! Can't wait to rendevous with you in RR.
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johntp
Trad climber
Punter, Little Rock
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The stars in the sierra were amazing that week. New moon, etc. Thanks for the photo reminder.
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Roots
Mountain climber
Somewhere Fun
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Great posts! Glad I a was able to see you guys on your Odyssey!
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mucci
Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
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Nice way to squeeze the most out of a trip Mike.
Chuck looks good, strong as ever!
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wayne w
Trad climber
the nw
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What a spectacular comeback trip, Mike! Wishing you and Sandra all blessings!!
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Norwegian
Trad climber
dancin on the tip of god's middle finger
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dude
sandra was cold.
i did the gentlemanly thing
and gaver my shirt.
i know.
vaginas everywhere are weeping
for me
don't waste your juice ladies.
i'm,
cough.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 2, 2014 - 03:30pm PT
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We're staying in the high country right now, but i only have signal at the crags. Not at camp.
Posting live from eagle beaks!
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Vegasclimber
Trad climber
Las Vegas, NV.
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Awesome stuff so far man! Was such a blast getting to climb with you again.
Really looking forward to the Grack shots!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 2, 2014 - 05:16pm PT
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Posting live from the top of south eagle beaks!!
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JOEY.F
Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
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Good excuse to brush AND floss while the thread downloads...
Great stuff Big Mike! The photos and write up super. Thanks for posting, keep it comming.
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mouse from merced
Trad climber
The finger of fate, my friends, is fickle.
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Likely still in Communicado Base Camp.
Walk back up to Eagle Beaks, lazy gums.
:0)
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this just in
climber
Justin Ross from North Fork
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Mouse, they are in perfect WiFi range right now.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
|
Oct 3, 2014 - 10:48pm PT
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Yes. We made it to WiFi range! Too tired for a full post tonight.
Here's a pano thanks to Justin's wifi.
Shuteye pass and North Eagle Beak
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RyanD
climber
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Deeeeeeeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrp!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
|
Oct 4, 2014 - 09:14pm PT
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Awesome you are having fun! Wish our schedule aligned...I guess it has to be Red Rocks...
Yeah dude! See you then!
The whole thread's a reward, Mike. i have no trouble with the size. A nice quiet less-than-a-minute wait and then hit end.
Funny when I Googled for 'How to photograph the Milky Way' the 6D came up a lot.
Thanks Andy. I'm happy to return some of the stoke i've gleaned here over the years.
The Trip of a trip report. Love it Mike. I now find the phone version more manageable and my thumb is getting stronger.
Nothing like the swank of a motel night with wife after all that Valley dank.
Looking forward to more.
Ya buddy! Glad your thumbs are getting a good workout. Motel was nice, we had to get ready for dinner! Can't wait to edit that video together!!
My phone just puked.
Cheers Mike and Sandra.
Lol! Sounds like you need to reset to factory on that sucker! Mine was slow as before i had to reboot to unlock it for this mission.
Bitchin' TR and road trip Sandra and Mike!
Awesome you guys made it to The Leap. That place is awesome. Very unique features on that stone.
Cool too that Weege hooked up with y'all. Good shit!
Thanks Bluey! The Leap was rad, and it was super cool to hook up with Chuck again.
hey there say, big mike and sandra...
wow, thank you being on the facelift card!!!!!!
part of YOUR EPIC trip here, overflowed to me, now,
in a new way--not email, BUT AS TO MAIL, :))
I'm glad you got your card already! Mouse was the engineer behind that feat.
WOW, these pics on this thread are so wonderful, great camera stuff...
thanks for sharing all this, big mike/sandra, and everyone!
Glad you're enjoying them Neebs
Wow Mike....you and Sandra are living the life! Can't wait to rendevous with you in RR.
Thanks Jim! It's been a great break together. Looking forward to RR
The stars in the sierra were amazing that week. New moon, etc. Thanks for the photo reminder.
Yeah they were! I got a few more decent shots too!
thanks Roots! It was great to hang out with you guys too!
Nice way to squeeze the most out of a trip Mike.
Chuck looks good, strong as ever!
Chuck is a machine! Thanks for the comments Mucci! We should hang one of these days.
What a spectacular comeback trip, Mike! Wishing you and Sandra all blessings!!
Thanks Wayne! It's been a blast for sure. I am blessed to be able to do all this fun stuff again!
dude
sandra was cold.
i did the gentlemanly thing
and gaver my shirt.
i know.
vaginas everywhere are weeping
for me
don't waste your juice ladies.
i'm,
cough.
Lol! Man you crack me up! You just wanted to show some skin for the ladies! Lol
Awesome stuff so far man! Was such a blast getting to climb with you again.
Really looking forward to the Grack shots!
Yeah buddy! So great to see you, and get on some Yosemite granite together!'
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MisterE
Gym climber
Small Town with a Big Back Yard
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Great to see you guys! An amazing trip all around, and thanks for the up-dates!
Safe travels, friends.
Erik & Skip
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 4, 2014 - 08:48pm PT
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You're going to have to repost that one on the selfie thread. Golden.
Lol! Ya for sure! Jer tells me he doesn't know how to smile... Well keep doing that bud cause it's frickin' hilarious.
Good excuse to brush AND floss while the thread downloads...
Great stuff Big Mike! The photos and write up super. Thanks for posting, keep it comming.
Joey! Great excuse to keep up that hygiene! Thanks. Will do.
Walk back up to Eagle Beaks, lazy gums.
Lol!! Yes sir! ;)
Deeeeeeeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrp
I know right! You gotta come here buddy!!
Great to see you guys! An amazing trip all around, and thanks for the up-dates!
You too E and Skip!! Always great to see you guys!
Here's a shot from our hike out to Dreamscape today.
We managed to steal Justin!!
It was awesome to get out with him again. Thanks for letting your husband go Min!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 4, 2014 - 10:37pm PT
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At the end of the day today on the way back from Dreamscape, I eyed up this line.
I commented on it to Justin. "Look at that thing!' It looks awesome!
It can't be more than v0?"
He said "ya that's probably about right. I think I'm gonna climb it!"
Near the top he joked that typically the bottoms and tops of these boulders could be quite hard. I return I quipped, "Dude, where's your keys?"... And the name was born.
thisjustin on the first ascent of Dude Where's Your Keys? V0
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johntp
Trad climber
Punter, Little Rock
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Cheers to Sandra for rocking it
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this just in
climber
Justin Ross from North Fork
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Haha Mike. Dude, you gotta say PFA so when someone rips into you for already climbing it, you can counter I meant possible second ascent. It was a confidence boost to hear you ask where my keys are, ha.
Great climbing and hanging with you and Sandra. Great leads yesterday Sandra.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 5, 2014 - 06:19pm PT
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We're shooting north on the 5. Shasta is well within view and a stop in Redding is planned for some eats.
It's been a long day. We had to skip Merced. I had plans to hook up with Mouse briefly on the way back, but we got started this 13 hour haul late, and Brian and I never made any solid plans.. Sorry dude!! We'll get you sorted with raw. I'll send you some video links, and we can skype.
Ok. Back to the narrative... As was mentioned Cathedral Peak was on our tick list. Scott and Rhonda had the same plan, so we hooked up for the ascent.
When I awoke at our bivy, I found Scott throwing stuff in the pickup. I asked him what the plan was, he said "we're outta here in 20 mins"...
Great.. Lol i'm still in my sleeping bag at this point... "What time is it?"
I asked, knowing since it was dark it was still fairly early. "5:30am" plaid replied. "Great" i said... "Getting Sandra up this early might be nearly impossible."
"Just lie to her" said plaid. "I tell Rhonda it's an hour earlier than it is all the time!"
I laughed heartily, and said "that might just work!" ;)
"Sandra dear, it's 6:30 and we need to get out of here. Plaid's leaving in 20 mins!"
I've never seen her move so fast in my life. We got in the jeep just before 6am, "best alpine start of the summer hun! In the car at 6am!"
"WHAT????!!!! You lied to me??"
"Yup. Would you have got up if i didn't?"
"Grumble, grumble..."
When we arrived at the meadows, we made quick work of unloading the food into the bear box, and Rhonda and Scott were extremely generous and made us scrambled eggs that we scarfed quickly.
I took a couple shots of the meadow with early morning frost and fog.
After some more coffee and a bowl of oatmeal, we packed the camelbacks and sorted the rack out.
Then we started off up the trail.
Scott and Rhonda left 15 or 20 mins before us, but we caught them fairly quickly. The smoke was light, but noticeable, wafting over from the cathedral peak trail fire.
Our first view of the ridge from the trail.
This should have been our first clue.
Scott and Rhonda posing in front of clue #2
As some point i found Scott sitting on a log by the trail, looking at his guidebook, and scanning the mountain above.
"Does it look like we're on the wrong side of the mountain to you Mike?"
"Oh Sh!t. Yes it does!"
A quick perusal of the guide on my phone revealed that we were indeed on the wrong side of Cathedral, and that it would be extremely difficult to rectify our mistake, with enough time to make the ascent and get off the peak before the girls started to hate us both.
When notified of this blunder, Rhonda wanted to go back around, but both Scott and I knew that would be putting us in epic territory. An experience neither of us were looking forward to sharing with our significant other.
I suggested a different plan of action. "Since we're 3/4 of the way to Cathedral Lake, why don't we stash the gear somewhere and go see this lake???
Scott and Rhonda agreed, although i could see they were itching to get on some rock.
Sandra feeling a lot lighter. "This sand is almost like a beach!"
Eichorn's Pinnacle from the meadow.
What a powerful place. A sense of peace washed over me as I realized all my worldly problems were so very insignificant in the grand scale of things.
The lake felt a little low..
Scott and Rhonda basking in the sun, by one of the bluest lakes i've ever witnessed.
"Hey hon, you wanna stand on that rock for a minute?" ;)
I have no regrets visiting this place..
Rhonda was tuckered out, and just wanted to chill by the lake for the afternoon. Plaid, sandra and i were itching to climb still though. So Scott ditched his wife and we booked it back to the meadows....
More later.
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SC seagoat
Trad climber
Santa Cruz, Moab, Bozeman, the ocean, or ?
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I miss you guys! I wish you were coming to Moab....next year, please?
Safe travels!
Susan
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RyanD
climber
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Nice Mike!! So pretty out there by cathedral eh? Guess U guys forgot to deke left? off the main cathedral lakes trail?
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 6, 2014 - 10:54am PT
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Cheers to Sandra for rocking it
Ya she does. I'm really proud of her progression this trip.
Haha Mike. Dude, you gotta say PFA so when someone rips into you for already climbing it, you can counter I meant possible second ascent. It was a confidence boost to hear you ask where my keys are, ha. Great climbing and hanging with you and Sandra. Great leads yesterday Sandra.
Lol! You know i'm not pc bro. Lol Rip away gents. This thick skin can take it. Ya bud. Same. It simply wouldn't have been a true Shuteye visit without getting to hang with the Ross bros!!
I miss you guys! I wish you were coming to Moab....next year, please?
Safe travels!
Miss you too Sooze! We will figure out how to fit the Creek in next year for sure. It's been on my Ticklist for a long time and i seem to have this thing about visiting friends wherever i go climbing! ;)
Nice Mike!! So pretty out there by cathedral eh? Guess U guys forgot to deke left? off the main cathedral lakes trail?
Yup gorgeous. I feel privileged to be able to walk my paraplegic ass out there. Budd lake was nowhere to be seen.. Oops.. We figured it out on the way down.
Yo! Cathedral zone is super rad. Could have hoofed it up the saddle from Cathedral Lakes zone to gain SE Buttress of Cathedral (did that linking up Tenaya and Cathedral in August). Beautiful country up there, those cold mornings in the meadows proper which you pictured so well are some of the memories of the Meadows which stand out the most for me. Bravo, thanks for posting bud! Can't wait to meet you here in less than a month.
Ya Weston! I got more of those beauties too. Saving them for when I access to a real version of lightroom.
I figured we could have gone up the saddle, but it was already a long hike, and the mortals strength was waining. Rhonda was basically off the couch, and was dealing with some health issues, so we erred on the side of caution. I seem to end up on that side of the fence a lot more since I broke my back... ;)
Looking forward to meeting you too bud. Tell burch i'm sorry i haven't hooked him up yet. Access has been so sporadic... Eat, sleep, climb and the occasional post has been the menu this trip.
When we returned to the meadow, Scott suggested that we go climb Northwest Books 5.6 on Lembert Dome.
I was game for anything at this point.. A three pitch route with a 10 minute approach? Hell yes!
The fact that it was a Harding route was a nice bit of icing on the old cake. I seem to side with the Harding camp, being more concerned about having fun while climbing, rather than telling other people how i think it should be done...
I was very glad to have a bolt to clip halfway up the slab to the corner..
Sandra Topolay photo
Thanks Batso!
The corner was super fun, and interesting at the pod. I put my chimney skills to good use there. Thank Weege for his tutelage on that subject this spring.
I established a bomber belay in a nice shady corner and brought up Sandra and Scott.
All smiles at the belay
Scott had the next pitch and since i was set up at the anchor already, Sandra continued her camera duties.
Scott leading out on p2
Sandra Topolay photo
Sandra following p2
Sandra declined the next lead because she was unsure if she could scrap together an anchor at the top. I gladly took it and was very happy to have totems in tow, since my anchor was a flaring crack and the totems set themselves nicely along with a red link cam.
I brought up the team and the view from the belay was pretty darn stunning.
Sandra following our first Tuloumne route.
Plaid enjoying some mellow rock.
Tuloumne meadows
Sandra Topolay photo
I think we broke up a pitch somewhere for rope drag. Here's Scott leading us to the top on our p4.
Sandra Topolay photo
What a place to be...
Sandra Topolay photo
Big Mike on belay.
Sandra Topolay photo
Topout selfie!!
I wanted to go to the true summit, but Scott was worried about time, as he had only ever done the descent with Rhonda, and it usually took them awhile.
Ok Mike. Enough with the pictures.. Let's get off this thing already.
The shutterbug in me couldn't resist..
Plaid on the slab
Mike!! Hurry up!
As we reached the trailhead, both Sandra and Scott mellowed out on the rushing factor. I was never worried, i knew traversing slabs would be no problem for Sandra and I.
Hello Eastside!
On our way back down the road, we stopped at the stables briefly so Scott could use the facilities nearby.
This mule seemed particularly interested in Sandra as we crossed the road.
She wandered back across, to see if he would let her pet him, but he was too shy.
When she came back, I noticed that the mule was now standing at full attention. We both cracked up for awhile, and I almost took a shot, but thought better of it..
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 6, 2014 - 12:14pm PT
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Last night we made it as far as Klamath Falls before we decided we were simply to tired to continue on. We holed up at the super 8 for the night, and slept in a bit this morning. We tried to get a smith guide at rei in cali, but there were none in stock anywhere in the state. So we stopped in Bend, OR to pick one up at the local shop. We missed our exit however, and ended up downtown.
Then Sandra got distracted by shopping.... Lol
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johntp
Trad climber
Punter, Little Rock
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Was she shopping for a Harley for your birthday?
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dirt claud
Social climber
san diego,ca
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Not sure if you will be passing by this area but if you get a chance take the Avenue of the Giants drive right off the 1 about 20 miles south of Eureka. Awesome experience. Some of the tallest Redwood trees in CA!!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 6, 2014 - 04:43pm PT
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We made it to Smith!!
Was she shopping for a Harley for your birthday?
Lol. No, i liked the post office building and those flowers had some nice colour so i thought i'd shoot that. The harley was just bonus.
Not sure if you will be passing by this area but if you get a chance take the Avenue of the Giants drive right off the 1 about 20 miles south of Eureka. Awesome experience. Some of the tallest Redwood trees in CA!!
Lol, thanks for the suggestion Dirt Claud, but we booked it straight for Smith. Next time i wanna check out the 101 for sure.
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JOEY.F
Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
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Did we pass each other???
Did a quickie to Grants Pass to see relatives. Sorry for photo drift.
Psyched you both got full value on your Facelift trip!
Edit, saw it was Dirt Clauds suggestion for the 101 route...but he's right certainly.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 6, 2014 - 07:34pm PT
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Joey! No worries! Always nice to see your smiling face!
It's so fricking beautiful here!
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drljefe
climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
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Excellent Mike!
It's been a while since I checked in....
or maybe it finally loaded!!!
Be safe brother...enjoy!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 6, 2014 - 10:20pm PT
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Lol Jefe!! Thanks.. I'm coming to see you this winter my man. Be ready. Lol
I'm staring at the most beautiful moon right now. It's beaming off smith rock and the big dipper is sitting perfectly on the cliff's horizon. I can't fvcking capture it however because i can't find my guerilla pod with all our crap in the car!! Lol.
DOH!
Hopefully i can find it for tomorrow... Otherwise... Someone bring me a friggin' tripod! Lol ;)
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 7, 2014 - 06:37am PT
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Up early. Back's killing me. Reception here is awesome. It's so nice to come to a park where climbers are appreciated instead of hunted...
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Grippa
Trad climber
Salt Lake City, UT
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Love Smith Rock! Only place where the bivy is unlimited, the food area is always social, and there are hot showers!!!
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micronut
Trad climber
Fresno/Clovis, ca
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I'm a bit late to the party here but man what a great TR, live from the field. May your stoke stay high and may the weather be splitter for you wherever you end up!
Scott
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Fish Finder
climber
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What do you need a tripod for
Don't you have 3 legs?
Just take the damn photo Mike
Steady as she goes
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 7, 2014 - 02:04pm PT
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Just another beautiful day at Smith Rock..
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 7, 2014 - 09:19pm PT
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Best pitch of the day by far was Moonlight Dihedral 5.9.
It kicked my ass. Two falls on toprope.. Lol i was tired today.. Must be that parapalegic thing catching up to me.... Lol
Sandra hangdogged the living f out of the bottom, and did pretty good up top. It was a very proud lead for her.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 8, 2014 - 07:58am PT
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This is why i was whining about my tripod the other night....
Full moon has been awesome.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 8, 2014 - 01:23pm PT
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Love Smith Rock! Only place where the bivy is unlimited, the food area is always social, and there are hot showers!!!
Ya Greg!! Such a rad spot bro!! We met a crew of rad Squamish imports just setting out on their southern pilgrimage. I had a hot shower this morning before we left. It was devine!
I'm a bit late to the party here but man what a great TR, live from the field. May your stoke stay high and may the weather be splitter for you wherever you end up!
Thanks Scott! That means a lot coming from you bro. Your tr's are what i wish mine could be like. It's kinda just spur of the moment thoughts intertwined with pics because i just don't have enough time to do a proper tr while i'm on the road.
As always though, i'm saving lots of the good pics for later use in a more expanded version.
What do you need a tripod for
Don't you have 3 legs?
Just take the damn photo Mike
Steady as she goes
Lol. Even balancing with my massive third leg, it's still hard to hold the camera perfectly still for 30 seconds!
Sandra hanging with the Squamish import/ Local crew in the cooking area.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 9, 2014 - 06:52pm PT
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We're back in Wa, headed home. At&t is telling me i have 10mb left of my 2.5 gig allowance for my month.. Lol guess i shredded that. I would happily put my Canadian sim card in my phone, but it somehow escaped the pocket i stashed it in when sandra got in my bag... I stashed it in a fresh Ziplock baggie and i suspect she thought it was garbage... Doh!!
Lol home in a couple hours. Updates will resume tomorrow i'm sure...
It's been fun down south guys! Thanks to all who helped make our trip such a blast!!
Mike&Sandra
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this just in
climber
Justin Ross from North Fork
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Man you sure do know how to go on vacation. What a trip.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 9, 2014 - 11:54pm PT
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Lol. Thanks Justin. I have to thank Sandra for inpiring this trip and being a great partner.
We made it home!!!
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mouse from merced
Trad climber
The finger of fate, my friends, is fickle.
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Oct 10, 2014 - 06:59am PT
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Thank San Dra, CA., the folks there should be mighty proud of her.
We know she's from Ontario, SoCal. Cat's out of the bag, just like the "third leg" of your tripod mechanismo.
You are a California girl by proxy now, okay, Sandra? Great photos by you, all through the trip.
Hope you find the card, Big Mike, but go take a long nap first.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 12, 2014 - 11:22am PT
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I found my sim card! It was at the Telus store! ;)
Awesome pic Mouse. Thanks!
The next morning, we woke up to a facelift meeting. Everyone was right outside our tent... Lol
We tried to make breakfast without disturbing the fold too much, and i took some photos.
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Vegasclimber
Trad climber
Las Vegas, NV.
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Oct 13, 2014 - 12:55pm PT
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Glad y'all made it home safe! Still waiting to see those pics from the Grack though!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 26, 2014 - 03:47pm PT
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So it's been awhile.. Life took over.. work, and getting all my trip photos into lightroom kind of put a pause on things for a bit...
Glad y'all made it home safe! Still waiting to see those pics from the Grack though!
Lol.. at this rate.. i should be there soon. I have a couple things to take care of this week to prep for Vegas.
Wow. Except for the guy flipping you off, those pics look like a funeral for fun. I'm sure the rest of the event was better than listening to ranger speeches.
You nailed that one Jeebs. I had arranged to climb with Moosedrool that day, but his sinuses were acting up, and Harrison whispered in my ear that he wanted to get out.
I told Moose our plan to climb after six, and he said he felt good enough to come, so we ditched the meeting and went climbing. ;)
It was a beautiful day, and I was stoked to be climbing in Yosemite again. I was excited to see how the climb felt since the last time I climbed it this fall I was significantly weaker.
I offered to swap pitches with H but made him bring way too much gear so I could be comfortable leading.
Moose and H getting the gear sorted
Harrison forgot his harness at home, so Moose graciously lent him his and fashioned one out of this sling.
Manure pile parking lot "aka picnic area"
Harrison getting psyched at the base.
Big Mike on belay
Moosedrool Photo
H getting established on After Seven 5.8
Moosedrool Photo
Getting some gear in.
Moosedrool Photo
Moosedrool coming up to the first belay.
Getting some crack.
Moose and Harrison with Middle Cathedral
Royal Arches, North Dome and Clouds Rest
There's a few pitches left... More in a bit
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Oct 26, 2014 - 06:46pm PT
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Way to go, Mike! You are to geezers what Birutė Galdikas was to orangutans.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Oct 28, 2014 - 09:01am PT
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Way to go, Mike! You are to geezers what Birutė Galdikas was to orangutans.
Lol! Thanks Andy! I had to google her to figure that one out.. I knew about Diane Fossey and Jane Goodall a bit from the movies, but i hadn't heard that name before..
I almost forgot to relate this funny anecdote from the first pitch..
Before we got started, there was some guys yelling after getting down from their successful ascent of Mescalito. "Whooooo" "Mescalito in the bag baby!".
This hooting and hollering continued for some time, to the point where it became extremely funny and I started yelling back "Whoooooo", "After Six!" "After Six in the bag baby!".
Then we all started yelling back at them, and laughing
Uncontrollably...
We did a short pitch to get to the next ledge and some shade under a small tree while we waited for the parties above us to sort themselves out...
The third in the next party started causing a commotion when her belayer had her on a tight belay, but because she couldn't communicate with him, she wouldn't start climbing. He was trying to haul her up the side of the cliff the rope was so tight. But she wouldn't go.. Eventually the rest of us convinced her she was on belay and she finally started climbing.. Lol
One party later When H finally had a clear path on the lower chimney, we were on our way.
Hands down kiddies! That's where you get your friction from..
H leading the pitch 2/3 chimney.
Moosedrool coming up to the belay on p3
Harrison having fun with it.
H taking off on his voyage to the summit.
Slaying p4
Moose getting jiggy with it in front of the Sentinel
East buttress and East ledges descent off El Cap
We ran into some girls at the top and one of them was kind enough to take this stellar pic.
Photographer Unknown
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Grippa
Trad climber
Salt Lake City, UT
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Oct 28, 2014 - 08:05pm PT
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MoooooooZZZZeedrrooooooooolllllllll nice shades dude!!
Mike thanks for the update buddy. You guys had one hell of a road trip!
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Oct 28, 2014 - 08:43pm PT
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Yep. After scrolling down this TR you know you've been somewhere, somewhere a lot sunnier and better-looking than Vancouver at the moment. Feels good.
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splitclimber
climber
Sonoma County
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Oct 29, 2014 - 11:08am PT
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is the TR over yet? OK. Now I'll post -
Thanks for bringing us along on your roadtrip.
Super cool that you climbed with H and Weege.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Dec 3, 2014 - 06:46pm PT
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Yep. After scrolling down this TR you know you've been somewhere, somewhere a lot sunnier and better-looking than Vancouver at the moment. Feels good.
Working on all these sunny California photos has me jonesing to go back!!
Thanks Jer!
is the TR over yet? OK. Now I'll post -
Thanks for bringing us along on your roadtrip.
Super cool that you climbed with H and Weege.
Thanks split! Truthfully? it's about half done! Lol
That night Sandra and I attended Valley Uprising
We saw Ferettlegger and Scseagoat there but my camera failed me miserably.. (i brought the wrong one.. )
Moosegoul
Chicken Skinner getting things rolling
Mouse at YP wednesday morning
The plan was to climb Regular Route on sunny side and Mouse wanted to introduce use to Werner and Merry at the Maintenance yard, so he
came into the village with us.
Facelift tents and Yosemite point
After checking out the tents we wandered over towards the maintenance yard.
Then we met Merry and Werner and had a lovely conversation.
(thanks for the photos Mouse!!)
After tearing ourselves away from the convo, with found the scramble at the base of the route.
Sandra starting up the p1 Chimney
This was her first chimney lead...
She found it a wee bit more difficult than she had previously imagined...
Happy to get some gear in.
Approach shoes didn't make it any easier..
When in doubt, Stem it out.
I cruzed the chimney and the next pitch was mellow with a cool boulder problem right before the belay.
Sandra figuring out the "tricky boulder problem"
Five Open Books looked nice and cool from my semi-shady perch..
One move wonder..
Closeup on the books
Half Dome and Washington's Column from the p2 belay.
ok twenty pics later... I'll bump this again soon
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briham89
Big Wall climber
santa cruz, ca
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More!!!!
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Steve Grossman
Trad climber
Seattle, WA
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EPIC...but without the horror part! LOL
What a great TR! Thanks for putting it together.
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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We're going to need a bigger boat.
I mean, faster device.
I find the addition well worth the wait, though.
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Author's Reply
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Dec 4, 2014 - 11:58am PT
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More!!!!
Your wish is my command Brian!
EPIC...but without the horror part! LOL
What a great TR! Thanks for putting it together.
Epicly loooonngg. ;) Thanks Steve
We're going to need a bigger boat.
Yeah we do! lol. I still haven't broken Supertopo though? Just killing some bandwidth...
"Won't somebody think of the megabytes!!" LOL
Sandra at the fork on p3
She initiallay went right to the knobs, but didn't like the lack of pro, so backtracked and climbed the harder corner instead.
Getting into the meat of the corner
She was scared on this corner, but got it done.
Sneaking a look at the belay. She was frying up there while i hid beneath the nice tree.
There you go.. get that whole leg in...
Wow...
Eventually she finished the pitch, by the time I got to the belay, she looked cooked. I told her to drink some more water, and set off on the last pitch.
It went quickly except when i got to the belay ledge, it was covered in trees and i couldn't see the way to scramble off so I figured the belay must be higher.
I went right on the sketchy slab and after getting a decent piece in, fired it.
I brought Sandra up, and cautioned her to be careful climbing over the snags I needed to go over to get to the belay. She was not impressed.
I wanted to go to the pools, so we headed towards the falls. Sandra was sketched out by the trails which skirted the edge of the cliff.
When we reached the bench where the trail to the pools heads up, she had enough. Forunately it was in the shade we took a rest and some lunch.
I still wanted to check out the pools and was disapointed when Sandra nixed the idea. I left her and the gear and stubbornly started up the scramble. I got to the
next bench before I looked up and realized there was no way Sandra would have enough juice to make it up here..
When I returned to our repose, she was less than impressed...
I just can't get over this view.
Sentinel looked awesome in the afternoon light
We started the descent which consists of sliding down loose dirt above a huge cliff while trying to traverse left. At one point we reached a place where the
"trail" looks like it goes down, and dives off the edge of the cliff. Sandra freaked. "How do we get off this thing!!??"
"We go left until it's possible to descend the talus is what the book said! I don't think this is it however..." I opined. I poked around a bit and determined
that the trail went down a bit and then left, but Sandra wouldn't move. Despite my assurances, she refused.
Fish Finder had happened to give me his contact info that morning and he was the only Californian in my rolodex so I gave him a call.
"Hey Mike! How's it going?"
"Great Fish, Thanks for asking..."
"What's up?"
"Well, Sandra and I just climbed Regular Route on Sunnyside Bench and we're trying to figure out the best way off this thing?"
"Oh, well I've never been up there.... Here let me ask around.."
phone goes muffled for a moment.
"Any Luck?"
"Nope, no one's done it..."
"Ok, Thanks for the info Fish!"
I looked across the slope and back up at Sandra. "Come on hun, He said it goes down and then back up..." ;)
This was one of the tamer parts...
After a bit more scrambling we came to a nice bench below some slabs with some nice views.
We took a break since scrambling on kitty litter above a 200 meter cliff for the last 20 minutes had taxed both our nerves. At one point we had come around the
corner and the "trail" took a sharp left across a gully which opened directly onto the slabs. The exposure was shocking, jarring even. I focused my eyes on the
other side of the gully and hoped the incredibly loose, fine, drought induced "dirt" would hold my weight. I slid a little as I crossed and my heart jumped as
I grabbed the tree on the other side.
When Sandra rounded the corner I yelled back, "Don't look down!! Just keep going!"
The flat groud was a welcome break, and the views were well worth it.
Lost Arrow spire and Yosemite Point
Sentinel
After some more sidehilling
A little help..
and more than a few sketchy moves.. We made it to the talus field.
Never were we so happy to see the trail..
we survived selfie...
The upside of the descent is any time Sandra would start complaining about scrambling after that, i would always say, " well at least it's not as bad as Sunnyside.."
To which she would reply, "No.. Nothing is as bad as Sunnyside.."
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climbski2
Mountain climber
The Ocean
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BBST
More Big Mike!
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mouse from merced
Trad climber
The finger of fate, my friends, is fickle.
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It's probably more intimidating up there on ball bearing gravelly disgtistingly decomposing granite mixed with dry leaves than I remember.
I'm glad you made it back safely. THINK...
how would you feel had you needed a WBraun/Merry rush rescue after having just met them? Whoo-hoo!
The adventure of Yosemite climbing lies partly in the descents. One just has to get used to a bit of bushwhacking, scrambling, back-tracking, guessing, and dead batteries; no water source, bugs in one's eyes and nose, and a keen desire to take dump, a shower, and have a brew.
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