Seasons

The Last Night in Peshastin

We thought that winter was over, that April was surely too late for low elevation snow.  Seasons are supposed to change on a specific day, but the weather follows no calendar.  Seeing the snow covering the ground this morning reminded me of the ice climbing season just past and inspired thoughts of frozen mountain climbing in my near future.  It's hard to imagine now, we've been so focused on the boulders, trying in vain to grow enough skin to sneak up some new problems. 

 Jens in January

Jens in February

After the Icicle's icicles all fell down we still found some fun at the elusive elevation between spring rains and winter powder snow.  Eventually this too became water and the rock started to dry.  

Strangely, the rock seemed to dry faster on the West (typically wet) side.  With so much climbing around Leavenworth I don't make it to the Index area nearly enough.  Hopefully I can continue to motivate as the year progresses, it's only an hour away.

Bouldering in Goldbar this year involves great cross-training, the road has been re-graded but is now closed to vehicles.  Less 4-wheeler traffic has improved the ambiance, and a good hike is a great warm up.  Carrying more than one pad is not recommended but will hopefully get me in shape for the mountains.

New boulders are still being uncovered in Leavenworth, and some of the area's hardest problems are being done.  The snow is forcing us to rest and is cleaning the rock.  I'm finally getting some work done, more photos are on the way.