Hi all, I just wanted to say a little something about my first trad trip. I met a guy on this site that was willing to let me follow him, teach me about placements, anchor building ect. I was nervous but we met up in a cosco parking lot and transferred some gear from our cars, and were on our way to tahquitz. I had never been there, was wearing the wrong clothes and flip flops. The approach was a pain in the ass with flip flops, but when we finally got to the base of the crag the view was incredible. We climbed Saraha Terror, a 5.7 8 pitch route that led all the way to the summit. We went over some stuff on the ground (anchors, placements, and commands), and we hit the rock. Once climbing and cleaning I knew trad was for me. The views you see, belaying from a tiny ledge, not having to stop because someone decided that this is where the anchors go, this is the world I want to live in. Even though it was only a 5.7, some of the pitches got a bit burly. I can only imagine what the FA party felt hammering these pitons in some precarious spots. To anyone who sport climbs, and feels that there is something more out there for them, TRAD IS THAT SOMETHING. I know this is rambling, but I find it difficult to put into words the experience of reaching the top of this mountain, knowing we did it ourselves with our own gear. I know you guys understand, and I just felt I needed to share this experience.
TL DR
Tahquitz rock is great. The routes are fun, with good sections of burly and a few where you can take it easy. Linked pitches 5-6 on saraha terror, it made for a nice chimney climb with a few overhangs. Would definitely recommend this route, and would recommend long sleeves and some warmer clothes for the all day shade it gets. if you have a chance it is worth the approach.