Fresno Climber: Visting scientist -- Rock climbing blitz

Last summer in Peru my tent mate was Dr. Jeff Garvin, a physiology professor from Case Western University in Ohio. We hit it off, being kindred spirits of sorts. He was in San Diego for the Experimental Biology Meeting, and made a detour up to Fresno to give a talk at the University. Being a good host to a visiting scientist, I brought Jeff on a tour or some of my favorite local moderate multi-pitch rock climbing venues.

First off, Fresno Dome. We climbed the South Pillar (II, 5.7), Whiskey Bill (II, 5.8) and one of the sport climbs at Hawk Dome.

High up on the South Pillar of Fresno Dome - so good!

The next day, we headed up to Sequoia National Park to climb the South Face of Moro Rock. Its one of my favorite climbs, 7 pitches long, and very high on adventure. It starts with a heinous bush-whack down a gully to the base.

Jeff on the approach

I had climbed the route last year, but this time I had the pleasure of leading the entire climb. Beautiful. It has some run-outs, and exposed, committing moves. Its truly a magnificent climb.

Looking down from the top of one of the crack pitches

We had a great time!

Castle Rocks in the background

Jeff at the end of the technical pitches.

We took a rest day (i.e. Jeff gave a talk in the Chemistry department) and then on our last day Teresa joined us, and we headed over to Shuteye ridge. We enjoyed another long moderate multi-pitch route on Chiquito Dome, then some fun sport climbing on El Grande, a beautiful 5.10 route. The sun was out, there was only 2 other climbers (on a very fun looking 5.11 -- now on my tick list). What a great way to end our trip