Hawks Bill Classic Climbs

Phil & I took a friend to Hawks Bill for his first time on Saturday, and were lucky to have the crag to ourselves. Although the trail into the main wall was wet in spots, most of the climbs were dry. We had to wait out a 10 minute ominous cloud that only spitted on us after looking much more serious, then headed up Winged Mongrel. This stellar climb has some steep moves for 5.10a trad, but includes great jugs!

We did a quick run up the direct start to Eros , then headed to the lower wall so Joe could give a shot on the Fat Lady. This 1 or 2 pitch classic is a fantastic 5.11a line with great views of Linville Gorge once you finish the pumpy ending. You can surprisingly do this entire route with one 60 meter rope, but tie a safety knot at the end of your rope to be sure.

Lastly, we hopped on King of Kings as the sun began to recede and more rain clouds loomed overhead. Another great, pumpy climb that includes three bolts and a few small cams at the top for 5.11d rating. We couldn't believe we had the crag to ourselves, but the rain held off and made for quite good climbing temps and comfy car camping. Who doesn't love climbing at Linville Gorge in the summer??