A quick update from instructor Ari:
Howdy from Bend, OR! Here over the last four days, we ventured to Smith Rock for some rock climbing and to trailheads in the Bend area for mountain biking! Students took in the breathtaking views of the Crooked River winding through Smith Rock state park, either side lined by giant slabs containing top notch climbing. The first day, students learned the basics of climbing and movement on rock, getting one on one instruction from our instructor team. Students also learned the importance of rock site safety, and how to belay!! Our students crushed it, pushing themselves to step outside of their comfort zone and achieve new personal goals. Meanwhile, it was great watching all the students cheer each other on, happy to be reunited after the backpack.
Our students also enjoyed the views of Mt Bachelor while mountain biking on trails of varying difficulties learning the ins and outs of maneuvering a mountain bike. Each day ended at the pump track where students could try their hand at gaining speed while pumping their bikes over bumps and catching a little air! Judging from the wide smiles and dusty legs, everyone had a blast biking the backcountry trails of Bend. After the day’s activities students cooled off swimming in the Deschutes River at local swimming holes like Steelhead Falls. Spirits are high after a few exciting days in Bend.
A poem from one of our students about rock climbing!
For the past two days, we climbed at Smith Rock,
And had a huge amount of fun.
First we headed for a walk and out into the sun.
After clipping into the rope, we CRASHED (a safety check done before each climb!)
As in checking our carabiner, rope, attitude, stuff, helmets and harness.
There were some challenging climbs,
Those rocks we smashed (metaphorically)
At the end, our one wish was that we had more time.
It’s been a sunny and adrenaline filled four days here in Bend. Everyone is very excited to head next to Mt Adams for a summit bid. Sending positive energy from Bend!