DATE: MAY 4TH-6TH 2019
LOCATION: SMITH ROCK STATE PARK, OR
AUTHOR: JOSEPHINE
TRAINING STAGE: PERFORMANCE
CLIMBING TYPE: TOP ROPING / SPORT CLIMBING / TRAD CLIMBING
What a weekend for some great climbing! We pulled in on a Friday night and set up camp near the other NSM tents. Clear, starry skies provided a nice back-light for the rock formations surrounding us. It was exhilarating to set up my tent between the monoliths. The weekend itself proved to be choice for sunny weather, mid-70s throughout.
On Saturday morning we hiked out to the Dihedrals. The large ocher rock formations were gorgeous in the morning sun. Skilled climbers got busy setting up routes. As a climber getting back into the outdoors after a too-long break, I felt grateful to be shown the ropes by knowledgeable experts. Everyone was welcoming and more than happy to share their skills with me. On the routes, the tuff/basalt rock was sturdy and gave my fresh hands a reintroduction to the outdoors.
Throughout the day the members of our community with varying skill levels lead routes, cleaned, set up anchors, climbed outdoors for the first time, and shared encouragement and snacks. There were plenty of routes to climb and plenty of smiles to go around. Saturday evening, we trekked back to camp, ate our dinners, and gorged ourselves on Pam’s famous guacamole.
Sunday, we got an early start to the day and hiked out to the Marsupials. We spent the warm day climbing, lounging, laughing, eating, and cheering each other on. I was so grateful for this trip and to be included in this group of tough slaydies. I was a bit nervous before leaving because it was my first experience with NSM outdoors, but I’m so glad I went. Thanks to Meagan and all the other members who helped on this trip!