Climbing Red Rock Canyon, Nevada

November 14, 2009
We hiked out of Red Springs last night in the dark -- through large boulder fields towards the bright lights of Las Vegas. Thirty five years ago Las Vegas was just a whimper of light surrounded by wild desert. Now the boundary that separates the park from the city is just a short walk away -- near by are casinos and shopping malls. Creating another paradox between wilderness and the urban environment in a city of paradoxes.

Last night's dinner was bightingly cold, especially with wind chill -- despite the fire, hot curry and India Pale Ale -- everything froze up. I wore 4 layers of clothing -- no need to worry about buying more ice for the cooler.

Today's sun was welcomed, we were at First Creek Canyon near Mount Wilson. At the pullout, numerous pelotons of road riders raced by on their lengthy none stop rides through he dessert roads -- one had 40 plus riders -- I longed to join them.

We hiked in about 3 kilometers to the "Romper Room" area -- just next to the stunning "Amphitheater." Robin -- the billy goat -- clipped his way across the length of the amphitheater -- leaping across a 50 foot gap while I took photos of the rock (in the photo above you can just makse out Robin walking the ledge).

We worked the near by 5.7 trad routes, while watching a team work the 3 pitches of "Black Magic" -- a stunning 5.8 route that we hope to do on our next trip. The routes were stellar with a bit of exposure. Long climbing routes are so freeing and offer the most joy in terms of adventure - just pure exuberance.

We both agreed that our humble efforts at climbing have allowed us to truly appreciate the stunning accomplishments of the real athletes who practice their art on these walls and they do this in virtual obscurity from the public -- makes me wonder what climbing means? ...an awakening, a form of contemplation, a bold statement of the preciousness of life?

On the trail home we came across a spring -- lots of small animals and birds near by. A small group of Burros appeared further on -- they were part of the settlement history of the area -- used to pack gear and supplies for miners -- and after they were no longer needed they were let go and became wild.