Sheep’s Nose

A few weeks ago I got an email from Andrew titled “Adventure?!!!!!!??!?!??!!”. It was an open invitation, and just what I needed to get motivated. We set our sights on a big chunk of rock with a beautiful summit, Sheep’s Nose in Colorado’s South Platte. At 500′ tall, this granite monolith is a sight to see.

We were up before dawn, driving along a meandering stream with golden meadows draped in frost, sun rays pushing through the pines. We rumbled down a dirt road, hiked up through the boulder field, and prepped our equipment at the base of Lost in Space.

The climbing was about right for my Goldilocks physique, that is to say, it was easy.  Save for the second pitch, which was Andrew’s responsibility.  The second pitch was suppose to be safe and moderately difficulty, but instead turned out to be a frozen finger, razor blade gripping run-out over a rat’s nest of tiny gear.  Since I was on top rope, let me say, it was awesome.  Andrew, out of ear shot, freaked out and running out of gear, had another take on it.  Either way, we got through it without falling, and cruised to the top.

Sheep’s Nose from Climbing House on Vimeo.

We hiked out and drove home in time to cook dinner for the family. Awesome. Damn, I just love getting outside with a close friend. It is one of the best ways to clear my mind, renew friendships, and just have a great time. Thanks to Andrew for the photos & video.~E