Mountain Project Logo
To save paper & ink, use the [Hide] controls next to photos and comments so you only print what you need.

Slabutt

WI3+, Trad, Ice, 70 ft (21 m),  Avg: 2.2 from 20 votes
FA: unknown
Colorado > CO Ice & Mixed > Vail Ice > Spiral Staircase area

Description

To the left of Spiral Staircase are a series of at least 8-10 ice & mixed lines. This is probably the fattest of these lines. It lies perhaps 150 feet to the left of Spiral Staircase and may be an excellent, albeit short, alternative for those seeking a moderate ice climb with fun variations and mixed neighbors. The name given here is obtained from J. Roberts' "Colorado Ice."

Fun variations include cranking 2-3 overhanging starts (M5ish) on the left, a brushy corner/curtain behind a dead tree to the left, and a well-traveled but excellent (M4ish) corner on the right. All are about 40-50 feet.

This may be approached to the right of Spiral Staircase via a gully for those seeking a TR. It may be led. There are existing sling anchors above off trees/bushes and other trees to back up these.

Protection

Screws for the main flow; cams & stubbies for the corner to the R.

Toprope Protection

Slings off trees.

Photos [Hide ALL Photos]

Right corner variation 1/22/4.
[Hide Photo] Right corner variation 1/22/4.
Pure ice version on 1/22/4.
[Hide Photo] Pure ice version on 1/22/4.
M5 overhanging start var 1/22/4.
[Hide Photo] M5 overhanging start var 1/22/4.
Swingin' away.
[Hide Photo] Swingin' away.
Dan getting his first screw of the day. ;-)
[Hide Photo] Dan getting his first screw of the day. ;-)