For organizational purposes, the Solar Slab is divided into a lower and an upper tier. Obviously, a complete ascent to the very top would require linking a lower and upper route, or following one of the full-length routes described in the Upper Tier section. Most of routes in this section go from the ground to Terrace, a giant, multi-acre ledge about 500 feet up. There are two main ways to descend from the Terrace. Most common is to rappel the Solar Slab Gully. This can be done with a single rope. Alternatively, there are bolted rap anchors on Johnny Vegas; this route requires two ropes.
Getting There
Quickest approach is from the Oak Creek turnout towards the end of the 13-Mile loop road. Alternatively, park on the highway at the mouth of Oak Creek and head west. The trails merge and enter the canyon on easy terrain above the streambed. Follow the trail to some huge boulders with nearby pine trees. If in doubt, stay high and right on this approach. Just past the huge shady boulders, head up the hillside on steep trails. This will take you to a good area right at the base of the Solar Slab Gully. Count on 45 minutes to 1 hour approach time.
Black Orpheus wanders up the large hindquarters of Solar Slab, culminating in a giant arcing right-facing corner that has by far the best climbing on the route. The route is long, but much of the climbing is easy and a fair bit of it is mediocre. Two stars is generous, but it makes for a pretty fun adventure with a little bit of challenging route-finding and more commitment (due to the wnadering line and lack of fixed anchors) than many long ro...[more]
Solar Slab - Lower Tier
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