Gertch Rock Climbing

Identify Gertch by first locating the Rabbit Ear's Massif and the low horns (refer to Ingraham's guide http://web.nmsu.edu/~amato/ingrahamguide/. The large gap between these two peaks is called Big Windy canyon. Gertch is the face on the south side of Big Windy Canyon, a tall un-broken face that leads all the way up to the summit ridge. There isn't really a trail, although you may find a few cairns scattered in logical locations. Mostly you will be traveling over Cat's Claw and Prickly pear vegetation, so long/sturdy pants are a must.

Approach from the Topp Hutt rd. At the Topp Hut, strike out South towards a small hill. Pass this hill on its eastern flank and head towards a slightly larger hill, crossing a few gulches on the way. From the base of this hill, a ridge leads all the way up to the base of Gertch.

Descent can be made by scrambling off the North side of the ridge (4th class) and into Big Windy canyon, where some terrible bushwhacking will get you back to the base of the mountain. Alternatively, you can head back towards the Low horns and scramble down a gully to the South. Two rappels at the bottom of this gully will land you back at the base of Gertch, but not without its fair share of bushwhacking.