Rock Climbing at Wasootch, Yamnuska & HaLing

Rick & Mark joined me for a fun few days of rock climbing last weekend. We started out with a full day of toproping & skills at Wasootch. They both did awesome so we decided to step it up a notch (a rather big notch!) on Saturday with an ascent of the mega-classic Grillmairs Chimney`s route on Yamnuska.

Rick hanging out in the final chimney on Grillmairs.

It was only their second and fourth day ever of rock climbing but lots of determination and a healthy dose of natural talent helped them climb really well on this 350 meter rock climb. The final chimney pitch was as spectacular as ever and provided a good challenge for Rick & Mark.

The lunch ledge halfway up Grillmairs Chimneys on Mt. Yamnuska in the Bow Valley.

Unfortunately Rick had to go home after Grillmairs but Mark & I headed up to Ha Ling for an ascent of the NE Face route above Canmore on Monday. After the short approach we quickly started up the first few pitches as the sun began to warm the cold rock. Twelve pitches later we reached the summit without a hitch. We calculated that Mark had climbed over 30 pitches of rock during the trip, not too bad for his first 3 days ever rock climbing!

Mark on the North East Face of Ha Ling peak above Canmore, Alberta.

All in all it was a great way to end the summer guiding season and we were fortunate to have great weather throughout. I hope to see both Rick & Mark back this winter for some ice climbing adventures!

J. Mills
CRAG Owner & Head Guide
http://www.cdnalpine.com/