coffee

Went to Rumney today with Ben and Scott. There was some bad weather (cold, cloudy, drizzly), a late start (sleeping in) and an early finish (Easter dinners). Even so, I had a really good time!

We spent the entire day at the Parking Lot Wall-- its a really short hike and, given the weather, was not too crowded.

We warmed up on Cafe au Lait-- a fun chimney climb that, with the cold, damp rock, I found a bit uncomfortable.

We then hopped on two of my Rumney favorites-- Juan Valdez and Espresso. These were projects two year ago. Juan Valdez was bagged but I never finished my lead of Espresso. I always got nervous hanging on a pinch, starting at the adjacent bolt, and seeing above me a long move. It was great to run this route a couple of times and I think it will go soon.

pics of us on Juan Valdez






pics of us on Espresso









We also hopped on Idiots Deluxe (5.10c)-- a brand new (sharp) long route with a funny top. The first half of the route is technical face/slab climbing (similar to Curly or Holderness Arete). Then it gets blockier and steeper at the top with horizontal holds and flat side pulls. Its definately a route that rewards resting and endurance.