Firehouse Pillar 

FA:  Unknown Type:  Trad, Ice Consensus:  WI4-5 [details] Length:  1 pitch Season:  Winter Views: 591 page views Submitted By: Chris Zeller on Jan 20, 2001 Add Photo  Add Comment

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Eric Chrisman on pillar

Description 

Firehouse Pillar forms a wide sustained steep curtain of ice ~70 feet high. The climb is wide enough to accommodate several parties, with varied terrain across the width of the curtain. Because of the many route variations, I believe a range of grades is more accurate than the WI4 rating listed in the Roberts book. The left hand side forms into a vertical chandelled pillar. The middle forms a smoother, less steep ~80 degree curtain. The right side is a low angle bulgy slab that provides the easiest access to the top for the moderate leader. Descent: Rappel slings and rap rings from trees at the top.

Protection 

Screws, the ice is usually thick enough to take long screws.

Toprope Protection 

There are good anchors on top consisting of several fixed slings and rap rings around a large tree. An additional ~10 ft sling and a biner for a backup is a good idea. One rope is sufficient.