Just for Starters

Overview

This route is a tenuous, balancy start whose difficulty tapers off very quickly and becomes a fun, knobby romp up the face. If you like gym climbing, you'll probably love this climb -- and the views are much, much better than the gym!

Getting There

Park on either side of the Cascade Creek bridge on your way into or out of the valley. It's just before the last tunnel on Route 120. There are two parking areas and there tends to be quite a few photo takers in this area. If there's no room -- wait a minute or two and you can probably get a spot.

Once you've parked your car, get yourself to the eastern side of the Cascade Creek bridge and hike up the narrow, steep trail on the north side of the road. It starts next to Cascade Creek. It's a quick (5 minute) walk to the base of Pot Belly, the first formation you come to.

After you reach Pot Belly, scramble up around the right side of Pot Belly. Once you've reached the base of the climb, look to the left of the trad route for a series of bolts. That's the route.

Route Description

To reach the first bolt, head up the sloping ramp or the straightforward crack. The moves are balancy and crimpy. Going straight up to the second bolt is the crux 5.10a move but after that, backs off to about 5.8. Just continue up the bolts and they will lead you to 5.easy knobs. Keep going until you reach the tree with all the rap slings. There is also a second pitch but few do it.

Essential Gear

Seven quickdraws and gear to rappel. There's no opportunity for natural protection on this route. The top of the route is runout, but 5.easy.

Images

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