"For those operating at 5.10 and 5.11, the Incredible Hulk has some other 'gems', in particular, Positive Vibrations. This follows a series of perfect hand cracks for 500m and is as good as any granite climb I have done anywhere."
In 2005, Nic Sellers and I made the first repeat of Croft's other route on the Hulk from the previous year, Airstream (5.13). Like Rands, we had been inspired by Greg Epperson's superb photos of the face and the climbing. After Airstream we climbed the first half of Venturi Effect, with Nic on-sighting the 5.12+ stemming pitch. Alas, we had overslept and were too tired from the previous day to complete the route. I can confirm Croft's hyperbole though - it is a truly stunning pitch and it would be great one day to go back and complete the whole route, including the spicy upper pitches, from which Rands takes a flyer in the film.
For those operating at 5.10 and 5.11, the Incredible Hulk has some other 'gems', in particular, Positive Vibrations. This follows a series of perfect hand cracks for 500m and is as good as any granite climb I have done anywhere. So venture away from the crowds next time you're in Tuolomne (or if it's too hot in the Valley) and bushwack (only kidding, though the approach is notoriously tricky) your way up to the Hulk. You won't be disappointed.
More info about the Incredible Hulk including detailed route descriptions for selected routes at www.mountainproject.com
Comments