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Talus Food Crack

5.9+, Trad, 180 ft (55 m), 2 pitches,  Avg: 2 from 8 votes
FA: FFA: Dan Hare, Scott Woodruff, 1979
Colorado > S Platte > Pine Area > Sphinx Rock
Warning Access Issue: Closed: Private Property - Sphinx Rock is on private property DetailsDrop down

Description

To the left of the "Stage Right" ramp and "Black Crack," note the beautiful right angling crack that begins about 20 feet off the ground. You may find it less beautiful once you are on it.

The first moves are protected by two bolts, and then you are in the crack. A combination of fist jams, arm jams, off width grovelling, flailing, and occasional whimpering were all effective.

After 90 feet or so, you can set anchors and watch your follower. Or, you can run it up to the tree. Finally, you could take it to the top and sling a boulder.

Double rope rap off tree or easy walk off Left.

I thought this harder than 5.9+, as well as awkward. I would not call it fun, but I would call it training. If you like funky off width-y South Platte excursions, this climb is for you.

Protection

Can protect with all cams, .75 to 4.5, with doubles in the handsize and above. Larger hexes could also be helpful. Multiple anchor possibilities (see below).

Comments [Hide ALL Comments]

Shane Zentner
Colorado
 
[Hide Comment] Several years ago I gave this crazy thing a try. I made it through the crux but ran out of gear about half way through the climb(honestly!). Save bigger pieces for the remainder. A competent second is a must, because a fall would cause a pendulum and that would not be good. Sep 19, 2004
Monty
Golden, CO
  5.10-
[Hide Comment] Great route in my opinion. Onsighted this one today but it feels harder than .9+, 10a at the hardest. Definitely has an off-widthy feel towards the top but it's just an awkward, deep, hand crack. Bring gear from .75 - 3 Camalots. May 10, 2006
Christopher Jones
Denver, Colorado
  5.9+
[Hide Comment] I led it this morning. In my opinion, it is harder than any pitch on the Center Route on Cynical Pinnacle. I know South Platte 5.9+ is usually pretty stiff but this one tore me up. The move to the first bolt is pretty committing but secure. The next hard part is the off width higher up, I used a 4.5 Camalot. May 27, 2006
jay baichi
  5.10
[Hide Comment] I did this twice hoping the second time I would do it a little smoother. Nope. It's grunty and and sweaty. Bring the #4 cam. The opening moves aren't really hard, if you're somewhat tall, if I remember. Have fun! Jul 30, 2006