Southern Pillar - 5.2

A very enjoyable, yet easy climb for a new second. The route finishes near a bolted rap-station with an exhilarating free rappel - especially for a new climber. This was my first climb at the Shawangunks and one of my first few multi-pitch routes/outdoor climbs ever. I seconded AMC Berkshire Chapter leader Ed K. on this route.

3 pitches

Partnered with Ben Harland and Kathy(tigerlilly). I took P1, and felt it was easy for the grade, barely 3rd class in some sections. But the little crux move is exciting for the grade. Ben intended to take the long second pitch. Alas, events conspired against him and foiled his progress just past the Laurel bush. We followed up and I took the lead for the rest of the route.

Exciting and fun, only at the Gunks can you worry about being pumped on a 5.2 - hahaha. Not as clean as I'd have expected of a classic, and had it not been for the historic ironware, I'd have thought I might have been blazing away off-route. Very fun climbing, though, with a sense of exposure the Gunks is known for.

I topped out at a birch tree and then stepped right under a large overhand and belayed form the alcove underneath. Someone else mentioned manky rings on a webbing...I suppose I saw that, on another birch tree about 10 feet to the left of the top out. I popped over to check it, and didn't even get close enough to see rings. I thought someone had bailed there. Couldn't see why they wouldn't build a gear anchor and go for the comfy belay, which connects to an obvious trail on the GT Ledge, which takes you to the rappel station at Madame G's.

4 pitches up, 3 rappels to the right

Worthwhile but not as nice as Northern Pillar. Watch for bees on the belay ledge.