Personally, if it was me the last thing I'd want as a legacy to my name would be some gross rust spots mucking up an otherwise gorgeous slab .... but thats just me.
Anyway, lets drink about it later and Luke why not switch to U Wall or something else that makes more sense? What matters more - Homes for the homeless or just another pointless bolt squabble?
By the way - get your comments into BC Parks regarding their intention to allow continued Heli Skiing in the Spearhead Range. For a very well reasoned and thorough explanation of why this should not be allowed read John Baldwins letter to the editor, in the last Whistler Pique.
Well if the lower bolts got replaced in a fashion that facilitated a future free ascent and left us setup with a still viable recreational aid line to gain grand for the keeners on a rainy day, then that section of rock is put to good use.
Just used the Lieback as evidence that no statute sez the ancient bolts can't be touched. I am 100% in favour of what you have done Perry don't get me wrong.
Just my view from the bleachers ...
Rusty bolts are not meant to be preserved in active climbing areas.
Replacing the original ladder would probably hinder a free ascent as the free line will take a more wandering line than the ladder.
Scrub the ladder and start from scratch.
I don't see and validity to the comparison of the GW bolt ladders with Maestri's travesty on Cerro Torre, but at the same time, leaving it as it now is seems stupid. Pull the junk, and make room for someone's new adventure.
Removing the bolts does not in any way invalidate or disrespect the original climb. Those guys had an amazing adventure, and blazed a trail for a bunch of fantastic climbing. But fifty-plus years later, leaving the rusting stubs in place doesn't make any sense
While I generally favour removing old/rusty/disused fixed equpment, my vote is for leaving the old bolts on the Grand Wall exactly as they are. They're not in anyone's way or a hazard to anyone. Neither are they an eyesore - for that, see some modern 'cleaning' efforts. Let's have a little respect for history and our forebears, eh?
It's an observation of the winter Solstice on Friday December 21 taking place on the shores of the Upper Blind Channel at the residence of an individual known to some as, Chief.
There will initially be a gathering of people of all ages around a large fire and adults will be generally well behaved in front of children.
Later, the children will be taken to the safety of their homes and the behaviour of the remaining adults will likely become quite childish and the event will take on the appearance of a party.
Freedom of speech is defended and informed and civil discourse encouraged.
Unlike ST, this is a real campfire and bad behaviour will have you escorted physically off the property or in extreme cases, thrown bodily into the Blind Channel.
Typically Ms. Chief brews a huge pot of soup and and although guests are plied with modest libations of both alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages, it's a BYOB event.
All warm bivi spaces including the cabin will be occupied by visiting family.
There's parking aplenty on the adjacent lot.
Driving away intoxicated will not be tolerated so make plans or bring a sleeping bag so you can pass out in your car.
Around midnight the world may or may not come to an end.
If it doesn't, it's officially winter and the days will start getting longer.
Planning a good time with family, friends and climbers.
Last years' fire.
Note red diesel jug common to native ritual in right frame.
Yes, all those of us from Vancouver who are attending should carpool. We can rendezvous somewhere like St. David's (upper levels & Taylor Way) at 5:30, and proceed from there. Though if it's a sunny day, I reserve the right to leave early and go for a climb/hike.
As it will be the winter solstice, surely we can do some sort of wiccan stuff? Dancing rings around the fire or something?
Moses, opps mighty hiker, has spoken -though shalt carpool, unless its' inconvenient due to sunny weather -MH, shouldn't the second commandment read "thou shalt not covet sunny weather?
Let us know!