Mark leading Times Square (5.8)

March 19, 2007 at 6:22 am

We had a fantastic couple of days climbing in the desert last weekend. Great sun, fun climbs, awesome people. This is Mark on a tricky solo up to the first bolt on this sporty route on Sand Gulch’s Contest Wall.

I actually lead three routes (three 5.7’s) on Saturday in the area of Cactus cliffs. On Sunday, when this shot was taken, we decided to go over and check out Sand Gulch. Tons of climbs in this area… but many of them are in the 5.11 range. Need to get back into good climbing shape so we can really enjoy all of these climbs!

Still, the moderates on this wall are lots of fun, long, beautiful climbs. Totally worth the crowds, lines, and hike. Also, thanks to Weeks for digging my camera out of my pack and taking this shot while I was belaying!!