W.A.S.P. (center variation start)  5.9

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Type:  Trad, Sport, 1 pitch, 165 feet Consensus:  5.9+ [details] FA:  Mike Engle, Linda Scneider--1987 Season:  Any Submitted By:  joelhagan on Oct 24, 2007 You & This Route  |  Other Opinions (19) Your todo list: Your stars: Your rating: -none- [change] Your ticklist: [add new tick]

Protectable crack is just at the edge of the shado...

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Description 

This is a nice solid 5.9 which is consistent and fun. The Bottom third is blocky/oververtical with big holds. The middle gets thin with nice little crimps. When in doubt, (you'll know it when you get there)go left even though there are temptations to the right. The distinct crux is at about halfway.
The cracks at the bottom are protectable with nuts or small cams and is one variation to W.A.S.P. The bolted route "pollinator" about 8 feet right of the crack also appears to be an excellent climb.
The flake I'm describing is at the edge of the shadow in the beta photo and is apparently the center version of the original start to W.A.S.P.

Location 

The center variation for W.A.S.P. is on the Southeast side of Hornet's Nest. Belay next to the ramp leading to the starts for the variations of waves.

Protection 

This was originally well bolted on the upper section with 5 bolts and the original start being protectable with cracks and flakes (apparently somewhere up the gully between Hornet's Nest and Shipyard Rock). Bring at least 14 draws to get to the top. I would suggest using some shoulders length runners to avoid rope drag.
If you run out of draws or desire you can belay at a lower set of anchors on a very nice ledge, or continue through a nice chunky section to a great summit with excellent views. Both anchors require a two rope rappel if you aim the ropes to the base of the climb described.

Photos of W.A.S.P. (center variation start) Slideshow

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Closer look at the bottom crack