Route Name: Skin Flute

Application Status:

Application Cycle: 2015

Rock Formation: Seal Rock

Number of lead bolts to be placed:

Number of anchor bolts to be placed:

Route Difficulty:5.12a X

Route Diagrams:

Not provided

Proposed Route:

Seal Rock is home to some classic east face routes, as well as a couple routes on the North face (Sea of Joy 5.13a and Archaeopteryx 5.11X). This route is on the South Face, which already has 2 bolt lines: Choose Life 5.13d and Thunder Muscle 5.14a. There are also a few trad/headpoint routes that have very little protection; Primate 5.13, Jade Gate 5.11 X and this route Skin Flute 5.12a X. This route has already been led on gear. The addition of bolts will transform this dangerous and neglected line into an enjoyable and popular climb.

Name Meaning:

Not provided

Existing Route Information

Existing Route Diagrams

A description of the approach (include approximate distance from the designated trail system, existing “social” or undesignated trails leading to the climb and condition of the trail, and state whether there is a durable surface, such as rock.

The approach is via the Harmon Cave Trail (the standard Seal Rock trail) until the turn off at the North East toe of the Seal. Then turn left on the amazing "climber access" trail that was recently completed. After a big switchback to the east then West the trail terminates at the South East corner of Seal Rock. Skin Flute starts under a dark streak left of Jade Gate and about 100 feet west of the start of the East Face Left route.

If different from the approach, a description of the descent, (include approximate distance from the designated trail system, existing “social” or undesignated trails, a description of the trail condition and whether there is a durable surface, such as rock. Include photographs of the descent.):

Lowering or rapping 60 feet from the anchor will land you back at the staging area.

A description of the area at the base of the climb (include existing levels of soil compaction, existence of a durable surface such as rock, and existing soil erosion. Include photographs of the area at the base of the climb.):

The staging area is mostly flat with some rocks and sandy soil.

Has all reconnaissance work that can be reasonably done, short of placing any hardware, been done?

Base Area Photos

Has the route been top roped? Is there loose rock? Is it extremely overhanging?

All reconnaissance has been done. The route has been led on gear. The rock is clean and sound.

Any additional notes:

Not provided