The Sign Wall is one of the more popular areas of Maryland Heights and the home of the classic route “Hard Up”. The unique and fading sign in the center of the wall was painted around 1903-06 and reads “Mennen’s Borate Talcum Toilet Powder”.

Rock Quality

Most of the rock in this area is excellent however areas to be cautious in are to the right side of the painted sign. Also at the top right side of the sign above the cave / alcove the rock here has razor sharp edges and is broken and loose.

Rappel Location

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From the top of the cliff there are two main overlook areas the upper one has a park info sign the other is a little lower and on the left when viewing the town. From this overlook locate a 6 foot wide chimney a little lower and around on the left side of the overlook. Scramble down the base of the chimney all the way to the exposed main face and a tree. The rappel bolts are still out of sight until you step down to the base of the tree and look back into the chimney under an overhang on the right side of the chimney wall.

A 60 meter rope is essential for reaching the second rappel. On the first rappel watch where you lay the rope when exiting the chimney there is a spot with a V notch in the crack system that sometimes will snag a rope. There is a large smooth protruding horn near the 2nd tree it is about waist high and makes for an excellent place to lay the rappel line keeping it out of the crack system. Also watch that you don’t rappel off the end of your rope as this long rappel will take you to the end of your rope. Then next rappel will take you to the base of the crag and “Hard Up Direct”