Central Pennsylvania Ice

We trekked up into the Hidden Amphitheater this morning hoping to find good ice. We were not disappointed! All tiers are thin but in. Our party included Wayne Barnard, Tom Mrotek, Eric Durante, Randy Edelman and myself.

The first pitch allowed easy climbing up to the base of the taller second tier. Both the easier left side and steeper right side were led. The third tier was topped out by leading into the notch to the left and also the right corner. Topping out in the middle of the third tier is not currently possible. (No ice)

A pleasant surprise was found on top. A fourth pitch of ice had formed this year climbing the rock amphitheater to the top of the ridge. Wayne led this new pitch with the rest of us pulling the route on second. This ice had formed here last year, and was top roped, but I believe this is the first lead of this pitch. It offers a nice steep 30 - 35 ft line.

Tom leading first tier, Hidden Amphitheater - 1/10/10

Tom on left side of second tier, Hidden Amphitheater - 1/10/10 Wayne on the steeper right side of second tier, Hidden Amphitheater Randy on second tier, Hidden Amphitheater - 1/10/10 Second tier, Hidden Amphitheater - 1/10/10 Wayne leading the new fourth tier, Hidden Amphitheater - 1/10/10 Randy seconding the fourth tier, Hidden Amphitheater - 1/10/10 Eric on the new fourth tier, Hidden Amphitheater - 1/10/10