Mon, Sep 6th, 2004
posted by Avatar-X
Recently, Conundrum, Roadwolf, and I, with the generous backup support of Exka and Caes, conquered a landmark in Toronto that I've been wanting to infiltrate since I first saw it.
The stack, or chimney, at the R.L. Hearn Thermal Generating Station, is one of the highest chimney's in all of Canada. Here is a diagram of how the stack compares to the highest objects in Toronto (it's number 6):
click for enlarged version
click for enlarged version
It stands 706 feet in the air. To reach the top, you must climb 36 individual ladders, each about 20 feet high. Every 100 feet or so, there is a ringed catwalk which extends around the inner smoke tube. In this photo, you can see the first 8 ladders and the 150 foot catwalk level.
click for enlarged version
After much hard climbing, Conundrum and I reached the top:
click for enlarged version
click for enlarged version
The view was excellent, but excessive fog prevented us from getting good photos:
click for enlarged version
click for enlarged version
We left a small gift for future visitors to enjoy:
click for enlarged version
We climbed back down shortly afterwards. It was an incredible trip, and the furthest I've ever climbed up a ladder.
Now, enjoy the videos! (DivX 5 Required)
www.avbrand.com/personal/hearnstack1.avi
www.avbrand.com/personal/hearnstack2.avi
- posted by Avatar-X