Chemistry Drainpipe

Posted Thu, 12/18/2008 - 13:09 by ardarvin

The 1968 description of "fairly firm" still holds somewhat true. Just be gentle. You can slip a sling behind the pipe, a short bit of clothes hanger wire would aid in this. I wouldn't bother doing this in two pitches. Just sling the spout and go for it. The top move is tricky, be mindful of a few sharp metal edges.

Climb it while it's still there.

1968 Guide:
Chemistry Building, Main Section. (daylight - but challenged)

The direct west face of the main section was first climbed in 1962 by B. McKnight and G. Headley. This ascent caused some severe disturbance in a chemistry class, and both climbers had top-rope belay. It was first led in 1965 by T. Auger. [Update: top rope no longer possible. This route is the best line of weakness to gain the Chem roof.]

The drainpipe used is just north of the south entrance on west face. Climb this directly (fairly firm) to a micro-balcony above windows. This may be used for a belay position if two leads are to be employed. From this point continue to ornamental pseudo-spout and do chin-up there on to main roof. (Spout is firmer than it looks).


Difficulty

Quality