Monday, May 05, 2008

5-5-08: French Quarter


Brian Hedrick with the FA of French Quarter [v7?].


Scott Chandler sticking the crux move.


Last year while exploring around the Bridalveil Falls area, I stumbled across an incredible boulder. It was not until this spring (just a couple of weeks ago) that I actually got around to inspecting it further and cleaning off the holds. The boulder is probably close to 30 feet tall, although the second half of the problem is very easy climbing. Here's how it goes down: Stand on a rock under the roof and start on a blocky jug. Climb up to a sloper on the arete, grab another sloper and throw for a crimp out on the face. Proceed to the top without falling. Brian Hedrick nabbed the FA and dubbed it French Quarter and we both thought v7 was a fair estimate for a grade. The approach is fairly simple: From the main Bridalveil boulder (the really big one near the parking lot) walk up the hill on a climber's trail. When the trail starts to flatten a little you'll see a large decomposing tree on the ground to your left. Walk along the tree and you'll see the boulder straight ahead. Bring your pads for this one and have fun!