Chain Reaction, 5.12c, Smith Rock State Park

Chain Reaction is quite possibly the most known and iconic route at Smith Rock State Park, the birthplace of American sport climbing. Legend has it that this arête climb even inspired the Cliff Bar logo. There are many betas on YouTube for this route; here's my take on it. I made a few mistakes on the climb, but managed to hold it together anyway. Regarding the holds that you cannot see in this video, on the back side of the arête, I use 4 holds for the hands: the small dish in the middle of the arête, the crimpy hold higher up, the blunt part of the arête itself for a bicep lock in the resting stance, and the 1.5 finger pocket that begins the final sequence into the roof. But I'd say the real secret to this route boils down to two words: thigh master. Thanks to Mitch, Sam, and James for the belays. Filmed on Oct. 23rd, 2022. Music: Zamonia by Parra for Cuva