I am planning a trip to climb at Red Rock in the last half of February (from about Feb 15 to the end of the month). I just retired and have time to play! About 18 months ago, my older daughter persuaded me to get back into climbing after a 35 year layoff. I have been having so much fun ever since. I currently lead 5.7 at the Gunks and have a rope, modest lead rack (cams, stoppers, tri cams), etc.

My wife and other regular climbing partners all work for a living and don't have time to drive across the country (I live in Maryland). So, I will be coming to RR solo and in need of climbing partners. I am looking to do multi pitch, easy/moderate trad routes. Depending on how the RR grading compares to that in the Gunks and at Seneca Rocks, I should be able to lead 5.6 and 5.7 and to follow 5.8 and (maybe) 5.9 I am also open to doing some sport climbing.

If you are interested in climbing with me in the last half of Feb, please email me at Hutbill@comcast.net.

Thanks, Bill Hutchins

The time for my trip to Red Rock is approaching and I am getting excited. I have gotten replies from several climbers and made plans to climb with four. I have an offer to stay with another for part of the trip. The local climbing community has made me feel very welcome. Thanks!!

I would still like to find some additional partners, particularly for weekdays in the last half of February. So, if anyone out there would like to climb some easy trad routes (5.6 - 5.7, 5.8 if you lead) with me, please email me at

Hutbill@comcast.net.

If you would like to get a bit more info about or sense of me, you might find my new blog interesting:

www.reliclife.bolgspot.com.

Bill Hutchins