Yakapodu

I once heard that the route's name is derived from one of the first ascentionists yelping "Yakapodu!!" as they moved deftly through the crux. Whether or not this is truth or fabrication is erroneous...it just adds more lore and an element of question to the first ascent.

This route is tricky, has some pumpy and balancy moves for the grade, and some exquisite positioning on a wide, crack-riddled face. With all of these ducks in a row, it creates a tremendous experience that only the Dacks can offer.

Climb the long, low-angle face with a shallow crack running through it. Step up thoughtfully to the ledge below the steep right-facing corner and put in some pro.

Move up the steep corner with some surprising high-steps, and some "Gotcha!!" hidden hand holds until you can rest on top in some very secure jams. Continue up the featured face, back and forth between some "huggy" cracks, and on to the lower-angled crack climbing above to the nice belay ledge. Build and anchor off a large tree and a Camalot-swallowing crack by the edge of the cliff.

Beyond the low roof to the right of Fun City is an embankment. "Yakapodu" starts about 3/4 of the way up the embankment at the obvious crack in the slab with the trees and shrubs growing out of the top of it.

A nice variety of gear is always welcomed. Include some doubles on mid-size units (purple to red Camalots), plus a good assortment of smaller pieces.