The BLM office in Monticello has asked the Friends of Indian Creek to remind climbers that there is a 14-day limit on camping on BLM Land. The F.O.I.C. understands that there is a bit of a history of staying in the Creek for far longer, but heavy climber-traffic in the area has made the BLM take notice of this tradition. Be aware that overstaying the 14-day limit makes climbers look as if we feel the rules don't apply to us and thus has an effect on long-term access. Moving your campsite throughout the season, or perhaps finding a site outside the main Indian Creek area, will not only help smooth relations with the BLM, but will also keep you from possibly getting hit with a fine.
A matrix of sharp flakes leads to a stembox, capped with a groin vault-shaped roof. The vault is escaped via a fat-finger crack for a few more meters of straight-in cranking.
From the creepy name, to the percussive flakes, to the tottering pillar forming the right side of the stembox, the Chopping Block experience feels a bit heads-up. Nonetheless, it's a worthwhile route, with protection in generally good rock where you need it, so the competent desert climber should not be deterred. Kind of a tower experience: fun climbing on big features with a high Indiana Jones factor.
Where?
The Chopping Block is located on the far left side of the OMW, maybe 50 yards past the unnamed left-facing hands corner that starts off the pillar. Immediately right of 'The Mayor's Route', both of which are (currently) placqued.
What to stick in it
Doubles should do ya fine, with a big piece or two for the wide crack running alongside the stembox. Med-lg. nuts down low if you got 'em. Save (2-3) .5 Camalots for the topout. I'd belay to the side until this one cleans up a bit.
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