1.5 hour approach to the extrordinary place we all (most) in san Diego love, called the ECM.

T-Dog feeling like he's backed into a corner after cranking through the awkward crux of 'Spitfire' ('Backbone' in Art's SDCC guide).

T-Dog stemming up the lower section Spitfire - a fun, demanding 5.10c trad line on El Cajon Mtn.

John Sprey approaches the 12a crux of the final pitch of Commander at El Cajon Mtn. Rhonda belays at the ledge below.

John Sprey takes command of the 5th and final pitch of "Commander" at El Cajon Mountain. Beautiful plates and edges up a slightly overhanging and tremendously exposed face.

John Sprey airing out on the 5th and final pitch of "Commander" at El Cajon Mountain. Beautiful plates and edges up a slightly overhanging and tremendously exposed face make for a amazing finish to the route.

Stefan jamming up the fun, upper hand-crack section of Backbone at El Cajon Mtn.

Shano following Justhavefun up P4 of Commander at El Cajon Mtn.

El Cajon Mountain Overview. Note trees at base on left side for scaling. Five ~100 foot pitches will get you to the anchors at the top of the headwall (but you're gonna have to work for it.) Photo: Shano. Spring 2005