Some guys are so enthusiastic about rock wall climbing they get woodies. Relax, I’m talking about a rock climbing wall. Rock wall climbing is so hot even cruise ships have cashed in on the excitement. I’ve done my share of outdoor assents, but at the Outdoor Adventure Show I tried a indoor woodie on for size.

Maybe I missed the buzz, but climbing an indoor wall just can’t compete with jaw dropping vistas as a reward. To be honest, the guy holding me in place with a tether rope felt a little like racing the go-cars at the local fair. Fun but not exactly on par with Mario Andretti thrills.

But, there a few lessons eager newbies can take away. It builds confidence –accomplishing a climb makes you feel powerful and ready to take on the world. It teaches you to trust the person on the ground – even if you just met him. When I reached the top and my partner told me to lay back and let myself go, my life was literally in his hands.

So, if life leaves you climbing the walls, maybe its time to climb a wall.

James W. Coates,
National Park Expert