Besides being one of the most scenically beautiful climbs out there, Starcheck is unique in that you rappel first and climb second. My buddy Nick and I simul-rapped to save some time as the route is notoriously busy. Nick's an outstanding climber, but he sucks at throwing rope in order to rap down haha. It unequivocally ends up getting caught on some edge or tree about 10 feet from us. Too bad I didn't get that on video too.
Valerie on her way down to the belay station.
She made it.
Here's a couple photos from the ledge.
Next stop the river.
This was one of several fixed ropes that had been set to make the descent/rappel easier. I particularly did not like trusting this rope because it hangs in the mist of the river, potentially eroding it quicker. I guess the moral of this paragraph is use caution when you see a rope hanging somewhere. It won't always be.
Alas! We made it to the river and the start of the climb!
Here's what's up for Part II.
and stay tuned! ✌
