Index, WA 12-7-03

Although a rare event, it does rain occasionally in western Washington state. Yuko and I were looking to climb, but all the local rock was wet.  Fortunately, aid climbing can be done in ANY weather! We started at a leisurely hour of the day, and drove 75 minutes to the stellar granite walls that are just outside the small town of Index.  Surprisingly, there were several other parties out on the wall.  We quickly located a clean, continuous crack that was available: Iron Horse.  I aided the route first, and fixed the rope.  Yuko then self-belayed on toprope with a Gri-Gri while I ascended a separate fixed line to supply beta--and take pictures!

Sorting gear--the crux of aid climbing!!

Top-stepping.

Some climbers feel that aid is a journey of persistence, focus, and faith, defined by committing one's full weight to a small piece and delicately top-stepping to continue upward progress.  I, however, feel that aid has more to do with relaxed movement at a comfortable pace--which is best exemplified by the always-popular mid-pitch COOKIE break!

And of course, what good is a cookie break unless it is immediately followed by a few sips of hot coffee?

OK, back to work!

Aiding through the small roof, which is the free-climbing crux of the route (5.11d).

Giving beta from the other fixed line. Note the amazing view, with snow-covered mountains in the distance.

Taking a coffee break of my own.

Cleaning the route later in the afternoon.