This past Monday I got to swing the tools with Martin, a former EMS store employee from New Jersey and a regular guest of the North Conway EMS School location. Martin has climbed with just about every long-term guide we have, except me, until now! We enjoyed very comfortable temps and soft climbing conditions to climb Walk in The Forest and Standard Route. Standard was a hoot as we cruised it in 1 hour flat. I’m sure the rain has done some serious damage which I’ll assess Friday when I head back out for another ice climbing course before the weekend’s avalanche course starts on Saturday!
Actually, Dave, we did climb once before. But it was rock, on Cathedral Ledge, and I think it was 2005, so your memory lapse is forgiven. I had a great day. Thanks for the “speed record” on Standard–and for inspiring some good technique on my part! – Martin
Wow, 8 years ago! That would have been my 2nd year guiding. Let’s climb again a bit sooner than that!