Needles, Gorge of Despair and More

Kris Solem had been climbing all over California for more than three decades; Stoney Point, Tahquitz, Yosemite, Joshua Tree, Courtright Reservoir, Church Domes, The Needles, etc.   Name a crag in California, and Kris has probably climbed there, maybe even put up a route or two.  His current project is a future guidebook for The Needles, which is due for release this fall.  The book will feature rich history, compelling photographs and, of course, the routes.  If you ask though, Kris will tell you that the best rock he has seen in California is at the Gorge of Despair, a wild and remote area of Kings Canyon. 

Tuesday, September 9, 2014 at the SCMA General Meeting, long time climber Kris Solem will be sharing photographs and climbing beta about California crags; near local favorites, as well as the farther away and more remote.  Starting with a brief coverage of Joshua Tree and Idyllwild areas, the program will then move on to Courtright Reservoir where Kris was involved in the development of a number of new routes.  The bulk of the program however will focus on The Needles, the subject of Solem’s future guidebook, and the lesser known Gorge of Despair in Kings Canyon.  Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about old favorites and new areas you might want to visit, and to ask this seasoned veteran questions.  

The meeting will be held in the auditorium of the Griffith Park Ranger Headquarters in Griffith Park, 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles.  The meeting starts at 7:30 PM with some brief general club business followed by the presentation.  There is no cost to attend and members as well as non-members are always welcome to attend and see what the SCMA is all about.

*Photo by Randy Wenzel - Kris Solem on Black President, 5.11a, Wonderland of Rocks, Joshua Tree