Desert Rock Climbing

Heading up the final sport pitch on Easter Island. Photo by Jonathon Spitzer.

In late March, Michelle and I packed my tiny honda up and drove south to the Utah desert. We were in search of sunshine, desert splitters and friends. There is something invigorating and refreshing about the southern Utah desert. I've spent quite a bit of time tromping around down there and it never seems to get old.

On top of Easter Island. Photo by Jonathon Spitzer.

Since my life in Seattle is often over booked with school related activities, I have very little time for climbing. I go to the gym several times a week but its not quite the same as climbing outside. When you don't get to climb all the time, the short trips mean so much more. I had hopes of cramming all my climbing goals into this brief trip. Weather and tired muscles dictated otherwise.

Dana Larkin climbing on the Scarface wall. Photo by Jonathon Spitzer.

This is my third trip to the desert that I have brought the rain with me from Seattle! We had snow, hail, sleet, rain and a couple classic bluebird days. On those sunny days, I tried to climb as much as possible. Despite aching muscles, bruised appendages and sore feet, I felt pretty good up high on the rock. I always seem to forget how physical the climbing is in the desert. When the trips are short its hard for me to convince myself to take rest days. I paid the consequence for that when I could barely get myself off the ground on a climb that I know I could have done easily if I was fresh. The disappointment in that day reminds to strive to quality versus quantity.

Michelle heading up.

Climbing continues to deliver some of my most valuable memories and experiences. From laughing with close friends, to athletically moving through a challenging sequence to finding the meditative focus necessary to push through to the next move. Thank you desert for providing a brief moment of raw serenity.

Photo by Jonathon Spitzer.

Gear:

Petzl Hirundos Harness

Petzl Spirit Quickdraws

Petzl 3-D Attache Locking Carabiners

Petzl Elia Helmet

Petzl Nomad 70m 9.8 Rope

Julbo Whoops Sunglass with Zebra lenses

Many Black Diamond cams