Rock climbing Bland Cherokee at Sport Utility Wall

June 27, 7:40 AMSalt Lake City Outdoor Recreation ExaminerJared Hargrave

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Adam Symonds on the roof start of Bland Cherokee

The Sport Utility Wall is a large crag just north of Pete's Rock in the Mount Olympus area. Right next to Wasatch Boulevard and above I-215, it is an urban climbing area with lots of noise but sweeping views of the Salt Lake Valley. There are a couple of moderate sport climbs here, including Bland Cherokee. Rated at 5.10a, Bland Cherokee is the second hardest climb on the crag.

The climb is located on the west face of the Sport Utility Wall above a small cave. The start makes things interesting from the get-go as a short roof must be pulled before ascending up the actual face. Strong holds and ample shelves for feet once made the start doable, but recent rains caused a major block of quartzite to break off, leaving a gaping hole where a crucial foot hold used to be.

Once the mini-roof is conquered, easier face climbing leads to the crux about three-quarters of the way up. At this point, an overhanging, off-balance section blocks the way to the top. Finding good balance and using good, sloping holds for lay-back moves will get a climber past this section. A final blank face with tricky feet completes the climb to the chain anchors at the top.

Bland Cherokee is a sport climb requiring 6 draws (4 bolts and 2 for the chains). At 5.10a, it is somewhat difficult and will pump the forearms, but because it's short it seems easier than longer 5.10s where more endurance is required.