Grotto Falls - WI3, 55m

 

The classic Grotto Falls.

Got out with Laurie to enjoy the classic Bow Valley moderate route, Grotto Falls. Over the past 25 years or so, I have only climbed Grotto Falls four times, last time was in 2011 with Steve Blackwell when we climbed  Grotto Falls, Hers and Sketch and Sniff. Last trip prior to that was when we pulled the plug on a big alpine objective because of a big storm and we headed to Grotto Falls with Andrew Nugara, Raff K. and Jason Wilcox way back in 2007. After that climb, we headed up Grotto Creek and took a look at Crystal Tear, but didn't reach the ice. My only trip to Crystal Tear was Jordan Ramey in 2012, that was a fun climb. 

Approach ice below Grotto Falls.

Laurie at base of Grotto Falls.

After gearing up, I led up pitch 1, only about 30 metres, to the lower bolted station. Brought up Laurie. Laurie decided to lead pitch 2. After his lead, I seconded, then we rapped back to the base of the route. I lead up pitch 1 again and set a top rope up on the lower bolts. We did a few laps on top rope on the steeper section on the left side. Very warm day out, and we had the climb to ourselves. Had thought about leading up Hers on the walk out, but the sun had just set, and since we were only out for a casual afternoon, we headed home. Fun afternoon of ice cragging. 

Laurie leading up pitch 2.

Laurie on the last rap of day. 

Fun times at Grotto Falls.