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Dark West Face

Utah > Wasatch Range > Central Wasatch > Big Cottonwood… > Back of Beyond

Description

The Dark West Face is the obvious, large, west-facing crag. It is home to the area's original line, The Journey Home, as well as some moderate test-pieces, and the classic and colorful Fools Progress. Routes here are both single and multi-pitch and require a light rack for additional protection. Most routes were done in the traditional, ground-up fashion which is reflected in their adventurous nature, protection is adequate and bolts exist right where they are needed. A 60 meter rope will suffice on the Dark West Face, however a 70 meter is nice to have as it will drop you further down into the gully and land you closer to your packs.

The routes on the Dark West Face are surprisingly solid given its location, but are still cleaning up. The FA's did a great job clearing loose rock and cleaning the lines, but some loose pieces can still be expected so be sure to wear a helmet.

Getting There

Follow the trail to Back of Beyond, and continue up the trail that ascends the gully to the base of the ridge. When the crag begins to open up, walk past the east-facing slab and look to the left (east). The routes here starts about 100 feet up from the actual toe of the ridge and are marked by at least one bolt at the beginning of each route.

Routes from Left to Right

5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c
 31
The Journey Home
Trad 4 pitches
5.10 6b 20 VII- 19 E2 5b
 12
Mud Head
Sport
5.10 6b 20 VII- 19 E2 5b
 9
Katchina
Sport
5.10a 6a 18 VI+ 18 E1 5a
 14
The Fools Progress
Sport
Route Name Location Star Rating Difficulty Date
The Journey Home
 31
5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c Trad 4 pitches
Mud Head
 12
5.10 6b 20 VII- 19 E2 5b Sport
Katchina
 9
5.10 6b 20 VII- 19 E2 5b Sport
The Fools Progress
 14
5.10a 6a 18 VI+ 18 E1 5a Sport

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Wacking away on the first ascent
[Hide Photo] Wacking away on the first ascent