Atomic Energy Bouldering

Two friends, Lexi and Sarah, and I drove out to Naturita on Friday to sample some of the fine bouldering at the Atomic Energy Crag. This collection of blocks (and roped climbs) offers some of the best bouldering in the West End, with around 100 problems spread out over a large boulderfield with expansive views of the La Sal Mountains to the west and the San Juans to the east. Check out info on this spot and many others in 'A Guide To Bouldering In The Telluride & West End Areas (Of Southwest Colorado)'.

The pics: (above) Lexi Tuddenham stretches for the horizontal before the final mantel on 'Box Car Sidepull' (V1). (below) 1-The starting left hand pocket of 'Hob Knob' (V1+). 2-Lexi Tuddenham shows off the optional downclimb for problems on the Shark Fin boulder. 3-Sarah Carden dances over stone in the last rays of the day on 'Sunshine Arete' (V0).

Big Bend Bouldering

After working 20 days straight during the busy holiday period, it was time to take some time off from skiing. I decided to spend Thursday and Friday climbing in Moab. The weather was great for both days, and it was relaxing to spend a few days outside of ski boots, in a t-shirt, climbing some high quality sandstone.

Here are the pics: 1-Christian Prellwitz crimping his way up an unnamed V3. 2-Christian Prellwitz delicately moving through the puzzle that is 'Black Sambo' (V4). 3-The smoke from charred tamarisk (an invasive species) drifts over a partially frozen Colorado River.