Ascent Notes for: May's Way - 5.5 Average Rating : 3.00/5

Yeah, I pretty much backstepped and pulled my way up the chimney section, which made it harder. Oh well.

I led the first pitch but I'm calling this a second. It was my first lead but since I led the really easy part I'd rather not count it.

This was a very easy climb. there was loose rock. dont have big cams so last 20 ft had no pro but the holds where perfect.
watch out for copper head at base between the two slabs.

soloed up the slab (EZ) then started the climb from the top of the slab. I did not have any big gear to protect the chimney so I escaped right after climbing the corner. Part of the inside corner was wet from seepage. When we got down there were two copperhead snakes just to the left of where you start the slab climb.

Seconded Skip Frey

I don't know where my lead head was today, but it wasn't with me. Well protected from top to bottom. Bring large cams, I used up to #5 on the top section. Beware the rock fall potential once nearing and on the top. Fun climbing if you can Chimney.

There is significant potential for rockfall on this climb. Today the rope(?) knocked a fist sized rock down onto my belayer's helmet - direct hit with no injury, thank goodness. There are several very large rocks that actually bounce up and down every time the tree sapling in the middle of the route moves at all. Have fun but be cautious.

Led the route for the first time in 5+ years. Second pitch has a steep section which is cool. Maybe not 5.3, but I didn't think it was over 5.4. Some strategic buckets, jams and a few stems make it go pretty straight forward. Upper section nice too. Nice if you are comfortable with chimney techniques.

First time with two seconds. Interesting doing rope management with the same color rope for both ends... I tied into the middle with a double bowline. Definitely a 5.5, NOT 5.4. It might even be 6. Last week my buddy fell off this climb and broke his leg. Make sure you protect the crux because there is potential for ledge fall.

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