Some decisions are easier than others. The decision to skip three classes for three days of ice climbing in Bozeman with one of the raddest climbers I hadn't met yet, that was one of those easier decisions. Eiji Sugi and I were put in touch by our mutual friend Mike and after a few emails and phone calls I knew he was cool and had plenty of experience for me to soak up.
Hyalite Canyon, its one of those places that every ice climber has heard of. The high concentration of frozen waterfalls makes it a place where every climber goes to get better, you can really focus on climbing and forget about long approaches and the obnoxious conditions which plague us Washingtonians. Camp in the parking lot away from cell signal and wifi for the full experience.
Pictures!
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| Eiji leads Genesis 2 |
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| Lance leads Genesis 2 |
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| The weather blessed us |
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| Lance leads Hangover |
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| For you John Martersteck! |
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| Lance smiles for camera |
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| Genesis 1 |
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| Lance leads Mummy 2 |
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| Top roping Specter WI5 |
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| Eiji smiles for the camera |
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| Eiji topping out Specter |
Back at school and work all I can think about is how awesome ths trip was. The climbing was obviously great! Climbing and hanging out with Eiji was always fun and laid back, we spent the evenings reading and studying the guide book for the next day and future trips. Oh did I mention, climbing was fantastic! I started to lead some moderate ice routes with confidence and tasted sweet success, the reward after training, focus and practice. There is nothing better than pulling over the top of an ice route and belaying up your partner after you struggled and fought all the way up pushing your limits just a little bit farther.
Can't wait to climb again!
