Yesterday Jim, EJ and I had quite an adventure on the Second Flatiron. None of us had ever climbed it so we elected to go by the standard route, Free For all (5.6). The approach to the base of the climb was muddy and icy in spots but we arrived at the base relatively quickly. From there Jim took the first two leads over low fifth class terrain. I took over for the next two pitches which were mainly traversing to the left to get back on route. EJ then lead the crux pitch of the route up a steep face (5.6). While climbing this pitch Jim had a huge rock (the size of a microwave) pull out on him and nearly crush him. Jim was incredibly fortunate not to be injured! After that mishap EJ lead the next traversing pitch with sparse protecting which forced all of us to “lead” the pitch where a fall would have lead to serious injuries. After we all completed EJ’s last pitch we regrouped and Jim lead the last pitch to the summit over a stunning and exposed arete. On the way out the trail was like a skating rink and I took several falls. I think I’ll wait until summer to climb in the Flatirons again.

Orange You Glad (5.8+) Topo

EJ Leads Pitch Six

Orange You Glad (5.8+) Topo

EJ Belays Jim Up Pitch Five

EJ Leads Pitch Five

Jim Leads Pitch 2

Jim, EJ and The Third Flatiron

The Second & First Flatirons

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Jim “Leads” Pitch Six

Jim Leads Pitch Seven

Wes Follows Pitch Seven

Jim Raps From the Summit of the Second