csanich's Logbook (45 ascents)

There are multiple options for holds on this route. I chose to take some awkward holds to work on form and take some big steps up. The rock was way more stable than Sleazy Street (just to the right), but I did pull out one golf ball sized hold. I had a lot of fun on this route.

We top roped it after climbing Sleazy Street because of the supposed 5.9 rating. If you do that, take caution, getting down to the rap bolts is a little treacherous because of loose rock. And people below should get far away because of falling rock. I wouldn't top rope this again, because it is a totally doable 5.8b lead, with lots of solid holds.

The previous Saturday I went to the Monk, and we left before climbing it because there was a 7 person wait.

The 5.7 start is fun. The first bolt is a little ways up, but if you are a decent climber it shouldn't be scary getting to it. Once you get onto the East Face the climbing is really easy. So, easy that the view and a fun rappel are the best reasons to do it, and of course to say you've climbed the classic Praying Monk. Although, I wouldn't suggest it as a first lead climb unless you have good climbing experience, because the exposure and runout between a couple bolts could freak a newcomer out, and you have to belay your second from the top of the spire.

Today we climbed this route with packs on, in hiking shoes. I see people do it all the time. I felt silly last week using a rope and the few bolts for protection. But, walking up it this week, I don't know that it's worth the risk. At very least wear your climbing shoes.

This is a great route for a brand new climber. It's a great route for a first lead.

I had to buy new shoes after this day. The foot holds are pretty small for a 5.7 and my shoes were pretty worn. I agree it's a 5.7, but pretty challenging little holds, tough on the fingers. My friend left some blood on the climb.