Jennifer Crawford of Charleston, South Carolina ab...
Description
This route is just right of Lucille and about 20 feet left of Cat's Cradle. As you top out on Walt's wall, look left to the obvious Hassler's Hatbox formation. Work your way through the rockstical course and down to the start of what looks like a chimney. This climb is great for beginning trad leaders. The climb has it all, cracks, easy off-width techniques and stemming. Rap down from the bolts at the top of Cat's Cradle. Note: there is usually a stiff breeze at the bottom, so belayers take an extra shirt or jacket. Don't forget water; you'll be thirsty after coming up Walt's wall.
Protection
This route is easily protected with a standard rack. Larger cams at the start and for an anchor at the top, up to a #4 friend. About half way up, parallel cracks can by protected with smaller stuff, cams or passive gear.
This is one of the best moderates in all of Vedauwoo. This is an excellent climb to do after topping out Ed's Crack, especially if 5.7 is the grade you climb. Super fun climbing.
No...Real...offwidth'ing. The double crack at the top is the best. Be forewarned, though--Hassler's Hatbox has seen little enough activity that birds have discovered the weather-protected nature of this crack. As of June 2009, a key hold at the crux is somewhat slimy.
Super fun route. I wouldn't call this a beginner trad route by any means (sustained and bit awkward in sections) but it does take gear every where and can be done safely. To get off find a two bolt anchor about 30 ft directly east of the route. One of Vedauwoo's best moderates. Perfect way to add some more adventure to an ascent of a Walt's Wall route.
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