Needlepoint Descent (5.0)-- Crux Move

This is the first (or last) move on the 5.0 Needlepoint Descent route, which is the best way to reach the base of the Dr. Needlepoint crag without rappelling if water levels are anything but very low. The move itself is about 7 or 8' in height, and the flake visible on the right makes it a pretty easy move when climbing up it. Going down is a little trickier since the small face overhangs slightly, but there is a long ramp beneath that should guard against a fall from the cliffs, and the move can be downclimbed by facing in, holding the edge on top, and dropping down carefully. Great Falls, VA-- September 2007