Western Wanderlust Chronicles

After a hiatus of over three months, I found myself back on the rock, ready to tackle new challenges and push my limits. The setting for my return to climbing couldn’t have been more perfect: Boulder Canyon, a rugged playground for outdoor enthusiasts nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Front Range. But this wasn’t just any climbing trip – it was an intimate Women’s Climbing Clinic, two days packed with intermediate lead climbing training and technique.

As I geared up and prepared for the adventure ahead, I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. It had been a while since I last climbed, and my body was quick to remind me of that fact. But with the support of my fellow climber and our knowledgeable instructor, I knew I was in good hands.

The clinic kicked off with a comprehensive lesson on lead climbing essentials, from proper gear placement to the intricacies of lead belaying. With the basics covered, we wasted no time in hitting the rocks, starting with a series of warm-up climbs on top rope to ease back into the rhythm of climbing.

But the real challenge came when it was time to transition to lead climbing. As I tied in and prepared to tackle the first few clips, a wave of nerves washed over me. Would I remember how to lead? Could I trust my belayer to catch me if I fell? It was a daunting prospect, but one that I knew I had to face head-on.

With each clip, I felt myself growing more confident and more comfortable with the idea of lead climbing outdoors. The tyrolean crossing, a new experience for me, added an extra element of excitement to the adventure.

Next task was practice falling. This would pushing me out of my comfort zone and into the realm of possibility. The mission was clear: lead the first few clips, then intentionally take some falls. It was a daunting task, to say the least. Letting go and practicing falling felt like a test of nerves. But I reminded myself that growth comes from facing fears head-on. With each intentional fall, I learned to trust myself and my belayer a little more. Lead climbing isn’t just about reaching the top – it’s about embracing the challenges along the way, including the fear of falling, and emerging stronger because of it.

By the end of the clinic, I had accomplished more than I had ever imagined. Not only had I taken my first lead falls outside – a significant milestone for any climber – but I had also gained invaluable knowledge and skills that would serve me well on future climbs.

As I rappelled down from the final climb of the day, a sense of accomplishment washed over me. I may have started the clinic with doubts and fears, but I was leaving with a newfound sense of confidence and empowerment. Rock climbing isn’t just about reaching the summit – it’s about pushing past your limits, facing your fears, and discovering what you’re truly capable of. And in Boulder Canyon, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the camaraderie of fellow climbers, I found all that and more.