The Pyramid Expedition

The Pyramid Expedition II 5.10. An unusual trip if the summit of the massive pyramid is reached. The climb up the 200' crack is the door to the top of a previously virgin rocky mesa about a mile in length, the end of which forms a very impressive Pyramid. The mesa lies about 15 mins to the north of Toviah Tower across the flat tree covered Secret Mesa.

From the campsite near the iron gate exit from I.70 and walk the half hour to Toviah Tower (see that description). Continue NW across the Secret Mesa to the obvious steep prow of the mesa on the skyline (15 mins). Go around the corner along a wide tree ledge to the prominent crack on the right and a view of the distant peak of The Pyramid above the massive smooth rock walls.

P1) The first 30' past a bolt is difficult, and aid on a cam was used just below the bolt. After this a clean four inch crack is reached and 5.9+ offwidth cracks follow to the top of the ridge and natural belays. 200' 5.10 A0. Registry can.

P2) About a mile of hiking and 4th class along the ridge to the summit of the Pyramid. About halfway along a descent on the south side for about 150' to reach a groove with bushes has to be made to reach more easy ground. The summit is approached by some slabs on its south side. Great views.

Descent) Rap anchors are on the south side of the ridge, about 5 mins slightly to the left from the top of the 200' pitch 1 crack. Scramble down an open slab/groove (cairn) for about 100' with a mini pyramid down to its left. Anchors are on the slab to the right above a 70' crack to the ground.

ALTERNATIVE route. We found this crack can be climbed at 5.7 for those who wish for an easier climb to the ridge and the 4th class scramble to the Pyramid summit.

First Ascent. Andy Ross, Paul Ross, Layne Potter. 14th Oct 2005

Cams 3 sets friends #1 to #4 , Two #5 One # 6 (200' crack route)