DSC04451 Photo courtesy Bill Bushnell

Mammoth Trip, 2024

September 10

Crystal Crag



I make the same mistake Stella did, and find myself unexpectedly tackling an overhang, as I try to get around the right side of an obstruction in the chimney. I start to fight, but realize this is way too hard for the 5.8 it's supposed to be and know I'm doing something wrong. Not to waste energy (it's a long way to go), I let go and fall onto the rope. Gerry coaches, but once I have the idea I have to exit here, I mostly figure out the moves myself.

Photo: just after the exit. -F.