BETA PHOTO: Standard Route. The cave with bolts can be seen to...
Description
An incredible-looking blob of cool blue ice. Due to its size, Standard Route has plenty of options - and all seem fun. The line of least resistance goes at WI3 but some of the bulges may be steep and harder, if tackled straight on. The only downside to this awesome climb is the crowds.
Most popular variation of the Standard climbs to the right, through a cave with bolts. Setting a belay in the cave, although interesting, results in 3 instead of 2 pitches, with some awkward leading just after the cave (the belayer can't see you and you need to be careful to avoid rope drag). The better way, in my opinion, is to skip the cave and lead all the way up to the top of the bulge (60m ropes). From the top of the bulge continue on easy bulges to the trees. Near the top, there's also a short WI4 curtain on the right, for those who want to add an extra kick.
Roughly 300 yards along the tracks past the trestle. Impossible to miss.
From the top of the climb, walk right and follow the trail, past the gully on top of Dracula . The trail eventually goes down and winds back. Hike past the base of the cliff back to the start of Standard.
By Adam Wilcox From: Candia, NH Mar 23, 2008 rating: WI3
There are two fixed anchors inside the cave. On the right side you'll find a pair of bolts with rap rings. Less obvious, on the left side are some pins which can be backed up nicely with a #1 Camalot.
I made the mistake of going straight for the bolts as soon as I saw them, when I wanted to exit the left side of the cave. Maybe you won't have to move your anchor, like I did.
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