In the past couple months I have become terribly addicted to exploring the Cascade Mountains of Washington. The mountains are dramatic, and the climbing is in your face. After another weekend in the shadow of Mt. Index, I can't wait to go back for more of the seemingly masochistic experience of struggling against gravity and granite. From Princely Ambitions (5.9) to Japanese Gardens (5.11c) there are no easy ways up. Everything seems so wild, steep, and painful. The adventures outside Leavenworth have been grand in a very different way. Approaching the climbs has been as frustrating as it is beautiful. The Cascades continue to excite my imagination and promise endless exploration.
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Testing every crack climbing technique and finishing
with a wild overhang |
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The Warrior (5.10+) is a striking line tucked high
above Icicle Creek in Washington |
Things are building towards a summer that I have dreamed of for a long time. After flirting with the idea of coming out of retirement, I decided to take another tour of the west, and continue my nomadic lifestyle. The standards have been set high for good company, food, and SUMMIT PARTIES. Next on the list is Squamish, British Columbia, where I have anticipated climbing the Chief for years. I can't wait to see what will unfold...
live close.
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