Birthday Crack

A 200 ft. finger and hand crack ... in Northwest Montana ... on solid rock!

The first 30 ft. is low 5 slab, no gear, the next 170 is sustained 5.9, gear. Solid, straightforward placements throughout. Chains on top.

It's best to do BC in one pitch with a double rack ... unless you're into hanging belays.

Double 70s to get down in one rap or you can use the Reacharound chains for two 35-meter raps.

Up the hill, you'll see it.

Cams: Doubles .2-3, single 4, three .75s wouldn't hurt

Nuts: A rack of medium to large nuts

Alpine draws: As many as you need before you traverse right under the roof, 10-ish

Helpful hints:

• The 4 is your first piece and the only 4 of the climb

• Save the .2s for the last 20 ft.