[Hide Comment] This is a hard crimp line but an elimanant line to me. Not sure it deserves any stars because of the requirement to off-route holds and the natural feel of an earlier topout.

We found that there were a couple natural lines our group enjoyed. We climbed the Alive Arete problem utilizing the arete and the 3" rail from the corner to the first natural topout above the rail that utilizes the good flake on top for the topout.

We also climbed the end of this problem as a one move toss, stand start ending on the very worthy crystal pinching, ball scratching, mantle! Also, go easy on the last rail on this problem, it will probably eventually come off if you match on it. Nov 7, 2011

[Hide Comment] So... Did you actually climb this Jay? Yes, the line you take is an eliminate, but only if you bail out to the top for a mantle, and the only "off route" hold is not tossing to the top and mantling over mid way (otherwise you can climb the Alive Arete you know?)... I can see this not being a "classic line" for sure, and never claimed it as such, but "no stars" is pretty extreme here (especially if you didnt send it, but Im hoping you did in this case). Nov 8, 2011

[Hide Comment] Just saw your response (a year later) No, def did not climb the problem as listed, but checked it out as I mentioned. Two compadres and I found the problem as described to be an eliminate line avoiding the easily reachable top of the boulder that naturally presents itself several moves prior to the end of the crimps. I did stand start the end of the line as a straight up problem which was pretty good off the last two tiny crimps of this traverse. Several of the holds/feet on this problem will eventually break off. I actually gave it one star, so not no stars like I mentioned above.

You do bring up an interesting question, I am completely willing to assign stars to something after looking at it and working it. Is the code send then give stars? My code is send then give grade opinion. My logic is that stars are based on several things, asthetic appeal, "true line", quality of rock, and last but not least: how it climbs. For instance sometimes you look at something and you know it is an instant classic, ala THEWS, other times you start to work something and realize it sucks and walk away because it is not worth your time/skin. That is valuable info to pass on to the next guy, even if you did not send. Sep 19, 2012

[Hide Comment] "not sure if it deserves any stars" was what I was referring
to. A ton of people have been stoked on this line, it was just odd to hear such a poor response from it is all. But then again everyone is different
It's contrived sure, but fun. Everyone is entitled to their opinion for stars, I have just always felt odd (never have) issued stars, much less detracted stars, from something I didn't top out. I feel like I always enjoy the line more from the top you know? Not to mention, this has a pretty obvious line of holds... But by all means, give
your opinion wherever you see fit... this won't be 3stars in the guide for sure, no worries. Sep 20, 2012