Bolted Climbing Routes in Baptist and Upper Chute....

[rsmiller]

Just returning from a quick trip to the swell.

We were really surprised to find some bolted climbing routes in Baptist and Upper Chute Canyon.

The first set of bolted climbing routes were in Baptist just below the first set of narrows. There were sport routes and at least 3 sets of chained anchors. The routes started from the floor of the canyon. Chains and bolts looked really new.

The second climbing route was at the last rap (3rd rap in Toms guide). It was an anchor (bolts webbing and rap ring about 100’ up the hand crack.

Anyone know the story behind these routes? Seemed like an odd place to have climbing routes. Perhaps a school or outdoor education group put them in?

Can’t say I was very happy to see them…

[rsmiller]

[moabmatt]

I also saw those routes this summer. I thought it was in poor taste, too. It's definitely very mediocre climbing and considering the long approach it just doesn't seem worth it. With this in mind (as well as the super-industrial final rap anchor now in Baptist - probably placed by the same folks) I'm also guessing they were put in by a school or other institutional group that is camping down in there and trying to squeeze in a couple different activities in an out-of-the-way area.

[rsmiller]

I wonder if its the same group that left the nylon rope we tried to remove at the 3rd rap/down climb. The rope is still there. So if someone does the canyon please remove it. Agree the 3 bolt anchor at the big rap is not needed. We also removed some rap rings that had been put iin the quick links at the first rap.

[qedcook]

I think its great. I've always wanted to create a hybrid climbing/canyoneering sport. I've got my eye on a route or two near Alcatraz. Obviously if you can do trad routes, that's preferred, but who's to say canyoneers have exclusive to the canyon rock walls.

[rsmiller]

I agree. I am a climber also - sport and trad.

Take a look at the bolts and then make your decision though. Even as a climber I was a little disappointed at the choice.