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The Witch

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The Witch

Submitted By: Josh Janes on Jun 18, 2006
Administrator: Matthew Fienup
Views: 8,890 page views

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Witch


Description 

The Witch is the major formation just past the Sorcerer. The amphitheater formed by these two rocks holds the highest concentration of Needles' classics. Most climbs are on the west face -- this can be approached by a small access point near the top of the formation.

Descent involves a single rope rap from anchors to the north and a bit of easy downclimbing.


Getting There 

Hike the trail past the Sorcerer. Decend through a notch to the South very near the West face of the Witch.



Featured Route For The Witch
Stein leads pitch 2 (5.10+) of Spook Book. He took an upside down 30 footer when a microcam popped. Lucky for him he had a helmet and Camelbak on.

Spook Book 5.10+ R  CA : The Needles / Kern River : The Witch
AKA "Welcome to the Needles." Yet another beautiful, perfect route -- I think it's the Witch's analog to the Don Juan Wall: shorter, and perhaps easier, but more heart-pounding and intense. The crux pitch is one of the most exceptional corners I've ever climbed -- super technical, sustained, devious, and full of committing moves above fiddly gear.P1: Begin at a small left-facing left-leaning loose-ish flake system. Place some uninspiring gear ...[more]


Add Photo Photos of The Witch
Left climbers are on Igor Unchained finishing the 2nd pitch. Right climbers are on Inner Sanctum. Bottom climber is at a belay.

BETA PHOTO: Left climbers are on Igor Unchained finishing the ...