Watermarks Direct is located just to the right of Watermarks. Start to the right of the small ledge on Watermarks, with the two triangular pockets directly above you. Use small side-pull face holds and foot ledges to ascend the route up to the triangular pockets. From here the route links up with Watermarks. Climb the vertical crack to the top.
Protection
The direct start is a boulder problem, after which good gear can be found.
This route can and has been led by several bold climbers. I led it this summer with a bouldering crash pad as "pro" to protect the first 18 feet. Good gear abounds after this point.
Soloing watermarks direct was a standard practice by many of the DLFA in the late 70's and 80's. When we were crimping at the lake all the time it didn't seem like a hard solo at all (low crux). Years later leading it with my sons it felt harder.
Balanced Rock Wall
RSS Feed
