Mountaineers Route, III 5.9
The ultimate rock climb in the Sawtooths! We usually ascend “The Perch” via the eight pitch Mountaineer’s Route (III 5.9). This route has it all including straight-in cracks, lie backs, chimneys, face climbing, and an exciting warm-up mantle! A two or three day trip ensures plenty of time for swimming, photography, or bagging rays in the vicinity of the spectacular Saddleback Lakes. Don’t forget your fishing rod!
Sideline/Astro Elephant, IV 5.10- (or 5.9+ by Sideline variation)
Named in reference to the Yosemite test piece Astroman, this intricate line weaves its way up the southwest prow of the wall. The crux comes on the first pitch with more moderate climbing all the way to the top summit. The Sideline variation to the ledge a top pitch four softens the grade and makes this a good step up from the Mountaineer’s Route.
The Direct Beckey, IV 5.11
This is the classic Perch route. A steep, clean crack leads almost continuously from the bottom of the wall to the top, with nary a long sling required to straighten out the rope line. Like many Perch routes the crux is on the first pitch, but unlike others the Beckey does not let up, with 5.10 climbing all the way to the Beckey tree at the top of pitch eight.
The Fine Line, IV 5.11+
A bouldery crux off the ground leads to enjoyable cruising (5.9 and 5.10) on perhaps the most obvious line on the wall. This route follows a right leaning crack to a prominent roof and then traverses left to join the Beckey.