This formation also lies in Pinnacle Valley and is between Wildflower Wall and Hidden Wall. It is easily seen from the top of The Watchtower. From this vantage it is readily identified by the striking arete and crack system that make up the route "Razor's Edge." This formation is also the home to the route "Hammer Time" (see Schein Guide), and at least a couple other established routes.
Getting There
It can be approached from the top of Watchtower by contouring North just below the limestone bands.... or better continue along the Crest Trail (past the trail that leads down to Watchtower) another quarter mile to a low saddle, then descend gully to top of formation. No distinct trail at this time.
The Classics
Mountain Project's determination of some of the classic, most popular, highest rated routes for The Anvil:
Other routes on the formation include, Fistful of Steel and its variation, Riders on the Storm, Iron Age, a new Jaramillo and Davito route that shares the Fistfull of Steel anchor and Hammer Time. I've done Riders but its been a long time and I don't really remember it other than I was good. Pretty steep with thin gear and a cool roof on the second pitch.
By mattb19 From: Depends on the season! Oct 13, 2009
Anyone out there have a good idea of what routes are where? Lee are you able to draw a topo as if you were below the wall looking up? With all the new anchors up there things are a little confusing.
Matt, head to Stone Age and check out the "local climbing" binder that we keep, it has Kevin's hand drawn topos of his route which should help significantly for anyone who is wanting to go out there. We can always photo copy any of the info from the binder for anyone who wants.
This is your best bet besides this web site for info on new routes in the Sandias.
Print a Mini-Guide - Includes Routes!
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