What... you've never heard of it?
Probably 'cause nobody's ever named it. Or climbed it. Or wanted to. Or thought it would be worth it.
Well, I'm just dumb enough to think a little four-wheeling, a short hike, and a rack full of gear in 90 degree heat, just me myself and I, would be fun. Or at least the prospect of hanging around in my office with a bunch of movers and some very loud construction might be about as much fun as talking to the wall on the gun threads. But I digress (or maybe devolve? fuzzy...).
I left work around 11am and drove up the access road to the radio towers above Steamboat Springs and the expensive new Galena Creek Bridge. It's not really Outback friendly; but you could maybe do it without needing a new oil pan. Maybe.
Missing photo ID#462746 Having scouted it, and not wanting to be chided for taking exceptional risks by my wife again, I threw some pins and a hammer on the harness and headed out all loaded up for bear. I only saw deer and birds though.
Missing photo ID#462747 Missing photo ID#462749 Missing photo ID#462748 The route I picked takes gear pretty well. You gotta pay attention. There's some portable holds on it. I'd call it mostly 5.5-5.6. There are good rests and a couple fair size ledges to hang out on. The upper part might be 5.7ish. The top needs a couple thoughtfully placed bolts. I placed every draw and sling while climbing, thus cutting my racking sling to build a rap anchor. Oh, and some of it in the heat was nearly too hot to keep hold of, baking in the sun out there!
Missing photo ID#462750 Missing photo ID#462751 Don't judge. I tested carefully before committing, and kept the Silent Partner on, pulling rope through in the opposite direction as I rapped, in case the anchor pulled, it would become a lead fall on gear.
Missing photo ID#462752 All was good, and I call it a success. Made it back to work by 3pm to answer emails and questions. There's other rock with similar routes, and probably some bouldering. I can just about guarantee you won't have lines.
Missing photo ID#462753 Route: Hot Rocks 80ft 5.7 pro to #3 BD, micros.
Area: Steamboat Towers
I gota go put the kids to bed. Will add pictures later.
Missing photo ID#462754