Sunshine Wall

We headed straight for the Sunshine Wall since it has been a pretty long time since I have been there. It was oddly crowded for a Thursday as I guess the kids are on spring break right now. We lucked out as nobody was at the King Pins area.

Whipsaw 5.9**

We started off with Whipsaw which was probably a mistake. I forgot how steep Frenchman Coulee climbing is and found myself pumped immediately. Not to mention all the loose holds that amazingly enough are still attached to the rock! It's a pretty fun route but we were all hurting after climbing it. 10 clips to anchor.

Mark top-roping Whipsaw.

Pony Keg 5.9**

I did a quick top-rope of Pony Keg which I have always thought was a great climb. This was the climb that I learned trad leading on. It is mostly face climbing but you do get some great jams higher up on the route.

Vantage Point 5.8**

We moved over to Vantage Point next. Mark lead this and I think it was his first 5.8 lead. He did a great job only needing to rest a couple of times. After I lowered Mark I pulled the rope so I could lead it as well. The crux seems to be right below the anchors and always catches me off guard. I think it feels hard than Whipsaw. 11 clips to anchors.

Danny leading Vantage Point.

We met some cool people while climbing and had a great time chatting with them about other climbing areas. Climbing next to us (on Air Guitar) was a couple who were just getting back into climbing after having a year or so off. They were school teachers and had some good climbing stories to tell. If you ever read this, I forgot your name! Jason? maybe... I hope I can eventually find you as I would love to climb the North Ridge of Stuart this summer. E-mail me so we can make plans for it this summer!

The Feathers

After being pumped out from only doing a couple of climbs we hiked back to the Feathers. We figured we could do some easy climbs before we drive back to Seattle.

Feather in My Cap 5.5**

Dylan lead this climb as he is also new to leading. He cruised it with ease and started getting pretty excited to be climbing again. We pulled the rope so we could each do a quick lead up it. 3 clips to anchors.

Ruffled Feathers 5.7**

I lead this one and was so pumped out that my arm started cramping half way up. It was kind of nerve racking as every time I would pull with my right arm my elbow would lock and I couldn't move it until I was able to do a quick massage of it. I eventually made it to the top and gave Mark and Dylan a quick run up the route. 4 clips to anchors.

I didn't climb as much as I hoped but I defiantly gave myself some motivation to try and get in better shape.

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Frenchman Coulee, 5.8-5.9