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The Elevator Shaft
WI3-4,
Ice, 115 ft (35 m),
Avg: 3.2 from 141
votes
FA: Steve Teller and Jack Tackle. Late 1970s
Montana
> Southwest Region
> Hyalite Canyon
> Unnamed Wall
Access Issue: Potential road closures in winter.
Details
Description
This climb differs from others on the Unnamed Wall in that it is tucked away in a small, north facing cleft. It receives much less sun and is usually more brittle than nearby climbs such as The Fat One. However, this a great climb and a good transition for a WI 3 leader wanting to get a taste of leading steeper ice. The short initial pillar is WI 4 and the crux. The climbing becomes easier upon entering the narrow gully, which has a couple steeper steps and ends in a small bowl. A new chain anchor has been installed in the rock to the left at the 35 meter mark. There is an optional second pitch (often snow covered) that begins at the back of the bowl. There is said to be tree anchors for the top of this pitch.
Location
Hike past The Fat One to the end of the cliff band. Continue straight passing through the trees for about 50 yards to the next open area. The Elevator Shaft is obvious at the far side of the opening. This approach will take 45 minutes or more from the parking lot.
Protection
Ice Screws
70 meter rope useful
Two bolt anchor with chains (at 35m)
[Hide Photo] The Elevator Shaft, February 2011
[Hide Photo] Elevator Shaft early March 2018 Liam Brown throwing gang signs
[Hide Photo] Some smooth ice to be found on the Elevator Shaft!
Waukesha, WI
Edit: it’s like WI3 this spring (2023) What a seasonally dynamic route! Mar 4, 2021