I just read on the wiki about x2 routes in the Bains Kloof area. Does anyone have any more info about this place. Where exactly is it, maybe a photo, access issues, etc.
I'm in the Wellington area a lot these days and would like to go give it a try as soon as the rain gives us a gap. If anyone would like to tag along, your welcome. I've got a full rack of gear, but a shortage of climbing partners...it freaks me out when my girlfriend belays.

I'm with you. it totally sucks - you're always "losing" arguments, have to ignore the hot chick bouldering a few feet away etc. etc.

Looks like the rainy season may be over. Does anyone know anything about these routes in Bains Kloof. Would there be a record of them somewhere?

I found these pics of Bain's Kloof climbing -
http://www.climbing.co.za/gallery2/thumbnails.php?album=37

If anyone has more then pls add.

hey bergie,
Dave and I, and Alan Ross, opened these routes. What would you like to know mate?
hilton

A bit more of a direction to where it is. This is the wiki discription..."From Wellington one has to drive over the pass and some way down the other side towards Wolseley. The best routes are on the imposing crag that is on the south side of the valley. Park at the appropriate siding on the pass and descend to the river. A long walk up to the base of the crag leads one into a nice cave."...the imposing crag could be anywhere between the top of Bain's and Wolsley. Do you go as far as the camp site on the left at the bottom? Maybe further to the Bush Pub? Not that far?
Is there a bit of a path or is it a hack and bash to get to it? How longs the walk in?
Did you guys open any more than just the two? If there are more, I'd like to make a trip out there and give 'em go. Thanks.

hi bergie,

if you drive from Wellington over Bains Kloof pass, keep going down the other side for a few kilometres and across the river on the south side you will see some big cliffs. These are the only really big faces in the region. It is still a long way down the valley to get to Tweede Tol, the campsite.

When you look up at the crag from the road you will see a big overhang at the top of the wall in the centre section. This was our target but when we got there we found massive eagles nesting directly under the roof. Instead we climbed the really nice clean pillar on the right. This is a good and imposing route. We also climbed the series of ramparts off on the left which was a fun and easy climb, a lot like the famous brit route Flying Buttress in Llanberis Pass.

We spent a night in an excellent cave at the base of the wall. The walk is pretty harsh though.

If you're keen I can recommend two amazing routes we did not far off. Down Bain's, turn right and into Slanghoek Valley. We did a very long and nice moderate route on Slanghoek Needle and a very hard and serious route up Slanghoek Amphitheatre called Private Universe.

let me know if you'd like more info,
hilton

Thanks, that's awesome. I'll definately head out that way and give them a try.
You got my attention on the Slanghoek Needle too though. When you say moderate, is that up and coming pro climber 24 moderate or for us mere mortals a 16 moderate? How many pitch, walk in, etc.
My email adress is otberg@hotmail.com if you want to send it there and we don't have to bother all the other people reading this thread that don't want to hear about my weekend entertainment. sorry all.

hi bergie,

I've checked the wiki and the routes are there - North Ridge of Slanghoek Needle and A Private Universe. Go to Du Toits Kloof then Country Climbing then Slanghoek.

the ridge is grade 16 to 18, about 300 metres, not serious. A Private Universe is a different matter altogether - 550m serious 22/A1 trad climbing.

please let us know what you think of the routes.

all da best,
hilton

Does anyone know whether the 2 routes, mentioned in the wiki, are sport or trad?

Trad routes Wes. No trace. Proper adventure for everyone for ever

Thanks Hilton, I really need to invest in a trad rack.