Peacemaker! 5.10a slab- My 1st multi-pitch lead!!
I was hoping to go back to Red Rocks but we were rained out again. Cochise is an excellent winter crag especially if you like slab climbing or multi-pitch. I wasn't planning to lead Peacemaker but I was interested in learning to place cams, nuts and other trad gear.
This was actually quite a surprise to me since I have been struggling to climb on lead because of the fear of falling. I don't know why, but it can be such a paralyzing head game to get over once it takes hold. I have been a strong leader in the past but it just has been hard to shake this fear. My fear had been on single pitch climbs so the idea for me to lead a mixed multi-pitch climb was a bit crazy.
I am proud of myself. I was able to do it but it was quite slow going at first. I hung out in an unprotected chimney for about 10 minutes before getting up the courage to make the risky move to the bolts
I got fastest as I got more confidence. We probably should have taken up the offer to use another party's rappel line to get down but we really wanted to finish. The temps dropped, wind picked up and the sun went down. I tried to lead the 2nd to last pitch via headlamp but ended up paralyzed with fear. Brad bravely finished the last pitches and we finally reached the top! I was so grateful for him to take over! YAY! (and Burrr)
We completed the walk off and gathered our things, then started the hike back to the parking area. Our friend JB was there along with a few others that were watching our headlamps from o miles away! They said they all cheered when we reached the top... I believe partly because it meant they didn't have to come help us.
Another memorable adventure and a huge first for me!!
this was the topo I wished I'd seen ahead a time.
http://www.geir.com/sheepshead%20sw.pdf (it's the green route)