North American Classic Climbs

The Mace

East Face (regular route)

On the most interesting formation in the Cathedral Rocks group in Sedona Arizona, this climb is unique in several ways. First the quality of the climbing, which is consistent from bottom to top, with several unusual pitches. Second, its appearance, which is impressive and unusual from any angle. Finally, the memorable summit pitch, involving a technical maneuver across a 80m deep but only 1 meter wide chasm. One of the most accessible climbs in the collection, with a low adventure but high fun factor. Don't treat it too lightly, though. The climbing is quite continuous and committing for the leader, who must be solid on sandstone hand cracks, chimneys, and offwidths.

Type:

Lowland Rock (crag)

Seriousness:

Location:

Sedona, Arizona, USA

References:

G24

Rating:

II+, 5.9+

Route Descriptions & Maps:

First Ascent:

R. Kamps, TM Herbert, D. Rearick, 1955

Trip Reports:

Clark 4/99
Stock 3/00