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flawrence
May 7, 2005, 2:07 AM
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Registered: Mar 25, 2003
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Does anyone have the skinny on the SW Ridge? I've heard it's closed during the spring/summer months for nesting raptors and others say only the standard approach is closed but you can still get in and climb. Any beta is much appreciated!!
Thanks!
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msamet
May 7, 2005, 4:34 AM
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I don't know the access beta, but try calling Stone Age Rock Gym in Albuquerque and asking. I did this route 400 years ago, in high school, and loved it. There is one long grainy pitch, the 5.8 corner off the huge ledge once you do the opening pitches, but otherwise the rock is good and the position is without compare.
Enjoy!
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wlderdude
May 7, 2005, 4:53 AM
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You could also call the Cibola Nat' Forest.
I am sure you could find a number on the forrest service webpage.
Last summer I called a bunch of the Nat'l Forrests in the area when they all closed for the fire dangers. Watch out for those closures, too.
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ahoeptner
May 12, 2005, 5:36 PM
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The Southwest Ridge of the Needle is a climb that should be undertaken advisedly. It is quite long (14 pitches?) and has A LOT of very loose sections. The descent is also difficult and has claimed the life of at least one climber.
I think the coolest thing about it is that it was established in the 40s--at that time it must have been a real rodeo.
There are a couple of nice pitches, but again, it is a big day. I wouldn't do it without someone who's been there before. I've done it before, and probably won't do it again.
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t-nutz
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May 12, 2005, 6:01 PM
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From what i understand it is the shield that is closed. The SW ridge is open all season. I would say to hold off until all the snow melts because the access to that area is a little difficult to get to. I have a friend that did it last winter it was an 18hr day so plan accordingly :shock:
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t-nutz
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May 17, 2005, 7:10 PM
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flawrence
I am also interested in that climb this summer could you let me know what you find out. :D
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