Photos by briarpatch

E_hyde onsighting the first pitch of the stunning line "Silent Power" at Valley of the Blind, AR. A beautiful setting with routes of equal quality. All these amazing routes and people are standing in line at some of the areas nearby. Oh well. photo: briarpatch

Greengoblin following the 150' second pitch of the Grand Traverse (III 5.11+, 500'). E_hyde at the pitch 1 belay enjoying the seasonal shower. Probably the longest route in the midwest, it offers tremendous exposure and interesting climbing. Definetly doesn't feel like you're in Arkansas. photo: briarpatch

Greengoblin onsighting Elijah's Fire (5.10). This route takes great gear and has a few thought provoking moves. It's not over untill you clip the anchors. photo: briarpatch

Sending "Painted Warrior" (5.12a). The way the color of the rock and the light play together make this a very special spot. A gentle breeze lofting the sent of pine. Not to mention that the two routes on this wall are just plain AMAZING. Tall and sustained. photo: E_hyde

Onsighting "Who Needs Friends?" (5.12a) on trad gear. The route was bolted in '93 and has been led on gear a couple of times since (not sure about onsight though). All cams placed on lead and quite close to the bolts as it turns out. I didn't get any gear in near the last bolt though. Only a 15' runout. To KC, H, and Herm: Thanks for the support. Photo E_Hyde.

Wildcat as seen from the base February 04. You may be able to see how beat out the climb was, it must see a lot of weekend traffic (close to Chicago). Luckily we were there mid-week. photo by E_Hyde.

Getting warmed up at the base of Tonti, February 04. This narrow canyon can get an erie feeling about it. Maybe it has something to do with the area's history. Great mid-west ice. photo by E_Hyde.

Heading into the unknown on The Rectory amidst uncertain weather. Only did P1, but what an amazing onsight. Castleton in the background. Photo by E_Hyde