Stratosphere

What a great new line! The sport routes on the lower wall at Paramount were some of the earliest lines in the area. Many local climbers got their first taste of outdoor climbing on this wall. Despite being a popular crag for decades, the upper reaches of the looming tower above have remained undeveloped.

Until now! 

Early in 2024, Dean and Heather Lords went to work establishing a two-pitch route up the tower to create a line that is sure to become an area classic given the variety of styles, the friendly level of difficulty, and the superb position it affords.

Thoughtfully bolted, Stratosphere is well protected, but this is southeast Idaho, so climber and belayer would be wise to wear helmets and use discretion. Like all new routes, this line will continue to clean up with additional ascents, but it's still the early days, so stay attentive.

Ascent:

The first pitch (5.6, 80') ascends a blocky, low-angle slab before trending right at roughly halfway, entering a fun section of positive underclings before arriving at a vertically oriented hanger. If you haven’t used this style of anchor before, you can read about it here: Vertical Anchors 101.

The second pitch (5.8, 80') is where the adventure begins, as the style here diverges significantly from the first pitch. Be prepared to pull on edges on steepening terrain, stem, chimney, and mantle as you work your way up to the top of the tower. Don't rob yourself of the opportunity to pull directly over the top. It's a glorious position.

Varied movement, excellent position, and significant exposure--Stratosphere is one of the most unique routes along the southeast corridor of the Snake River.

Descent:

You can rap the route if you want, but a much better alternative exists, even if there's no party of climbers waiting below. 

From the top of the tower, scramble down the back (west/northwest) to reach a large ledge. A descent anchor on this ledge allows a 20-meter rap onto the slope below, which is just a short walk back to the base of the route.

Approach via the original, main trail from the small parking area 100 yards west of the cliff. 

Route is on Aiguille du Mini, the distinct prominent tower 150' above and 70 yards west (climber's left) of the lower main wall. As you approach the cliff, stay as close to the rock (which will be on your right) as possible, as this will get you to the correct start of the route. 

A small outcropping bisects the slope here, and it can be tempting to head left because a trail marks the path of descent, but doing so positions you level with the second bolt. While it is possible to traverse in from this side, be advised that this presents dangerous fall potential. Given the occasionally suspect nature of southeast Idaho volcanic rock, it's advised that you start the route from below as the developers intended. It's a better line, and it's safer!

15 bolts and vertically-oriented anchors on both pitches. There is no walk-off, so be prepared to rappel. 60-meter rope required if you’re rapping the route.