The Tooth/South Face

Trip date Sun, Jul 12, 2015.

Weather forecast changed from 20% chance of rain to 60% overnight. We met at the Alpental parking area and agreed to go for it since it wasn't raining. Pretty standard approach. No snow anywhere. The basin is bone dry, no water. We got pretty wet from condensation on the trees and bushes. The scramble to the base of climb was pretty wet. I was comfortable scrambling it so fixed a line and had the rest prusik up just to be on the safe side. The first pitch had a few damp spots but was overall mostly dry. The second pitch to the summit, being more exposed to the light breeze, was totally dry. Everyone tagged the summit. The clouds were breaking up and we got some views of I-90 and some of the surrounding peaks. The sun even came out on a few occasions... and no rain! We had 6 climbers and 3 ropes so did a double rope-rappel from the summit and two single rope rappels. No struck ropes thank goodness. We didn't see another party on the route until we got back down when the first of three parties arrived for an afternoon attempt. Perfect timing! Uneventful hike out to the cars. About 11 hours car to car. Such a privilege to have this climb to ourselves on a July weekend! The climbers were awesome! The rope leads were from last years SIG group and the students from this years group. This was the graduating climb for two of the students and the first multi-pitch rock climb for the third. Overall a rewarding and fun experience for all! We finished with a trip to North Bend for beers and the North Bend Bar and Grill, but as usual the place was crowded so we went down the road to the "Sure Shot" tavern. They had a limited bar menu but the food was great and the staff was super fun. Fine selection of beers on tap. Recommend the nachos! At least two people ordered them and I was jealous.