Rock, Rubber and Rays

Three things I sorely missed when in Scotland! We were gloriously reunited though on a sunny afternoon at Stanage Edge in the Peak District last weekend.
(Click the pictures for larger versions.)

Soloing on Duo Slab. High Neb Area, Stanage

I had the roads to myself and sunrise over Loch Lomond as I left the highlands at dawn on Friday morning. By lunchtime I'd made it to the Peak District but so had some pesky rain clouds so it was into Outside for a spot of retail therapy. Eventually a cold wet route did go: Paradise Arete VS at Stanage Plantation but the best part of the day was catching up with climbing buddies Mike and Nick over a few beers in Sheffield. On Saturday we headed to Millstone but the hailstorms quicky persuaded us to head back into town and some good indoor fun was had at the Foundry.

Stepping onto Overflow E1 in the shadow of the imposing roof route Quietus E2

Finally Sunday arrived. With it came the sunny calm weather we and most of the country had been waiting for! Sheffield was no exception and everyone was out to make the most of it. We went to the High Neb area of Stanage hoping for a bit of peace and quiet. It was a dream day, good weather, good routes and good company. The highlight for me was climbing Overflow E1 which followed the classic Inaccessible Crack route before making an exposed traverse on small holds and finishing up an arete - finishing rather boldly actually since I'd neglected to take the right gear!

If only the rest of the summer could be as good... fingers crossed.

Starting the traverse

A look of relief after reaching the arete