New Bolts on Summit Block: Five, very ugly bolts appeared in the center of the East Summit Block (aka the "hikers summit"). The studs stick way out & some of them have a 2" long nut on them. Didn't know they made nuts like that! The summit block bolts (or any TR bolts) should be placed near the edge where hikers won't trip on them or easily notice them. The Across the Universe Bolts are how it should be done. The bolts in the center don't make sense to me. Also, someone removed the Flakes to Fresno Bolts that were near the edge (on top of "Flakes"). Anyone have any idea who added the center bolts or who pulled the "Flakes" bolts?

These bolts/anchors were not put in by the local fire department (SLOFD) or any other rescue service provider. Pass the word on.

Jeff Gater
SLOFD Captain and long-time local climber
805-781-7371 if you have questions

Everyone I've contacted agrees they weren't put in by climbers, they serve no obvious purpose & they should be removed. I've also contacted the land manager and they are in support of the removal.

UPDATE 2/5/08: Bolts have been removed. They were hardware store specials and probably the easiest bolts I've ever chopped. You can buy them in a pack of 4 at Home Depot for $6. They were very soft, non-stainless, concrete anchors designed to hold down the storage shed in your back yard. Not intended for climbing. They were not sunk to the minimum depth and also mixed stainless hangers with non-stainless bolts. Pretty much everything you're not supposed to do. Hmmmm...

Some good info. on the ASCA site re: bolt replacement. http://www.safeclimbing.org/education/howtorebolt.htm Check out the section on corrosion from mixing stainless & non-stainless.

I also removed the 4 old sleeves that were nearby. I'll get back up and patch all the holes when the weather dries up. I'll post a new pic as well so you can try and find the patches.

Contact me if you want your hangers back or would like to participate in some anchor bolt replacement.

Thanks, John