Virtual Reality (WI6 160 M) - full crux pitch

Testing out insta360 x4 on the crux pitch of Virtual Reality in the Canadian Rockies. I wanted to do this route for many years after seeing it first in 2019 or 2020, when I climbed its neighbor Murchinsons Falls. Was my first ice climbing trip of the season and first extended trip since completing the training cycle and running the Kodiak 100 mile race in mid October of 2024. Climbing doesn't yet feel very comfortable, but this trip worked out very well for how early it is in my return to climbing.

I don't know if the crux pitch of VR was in WI6 shape when I climbed it. It sure didn't have that many confidence-inspiring screw placements, but due to multiple prior ascents at least more of the chandelier-y ice has been cleaned off and hooking previous placements made things easier. All I know is that after months and months of running, it was a proper challenge! :) I used Sean's CAMP screws on it, as many of my Blue Ice screw got dull after the last ice season and ascent of the Cassin Ridge.

Routes climbed on this trip include a link up of Sorcerer (WI5 210M) with Hydrophobia (WI 5+ 230M), Polar Circus (WI5 700M), The Day After Les Vacances De Monsieur Hurlot (WI6 m7 270M), link up of Rectal Squirells (WI6 110M) and Simarillion Direct (WI6+ R 150M) and a day of cragging at Haffner Creek where I onisghted one out of two M8s I tried to lead. Good fun with good people!