Photos from Joshua Tree

My First Attempt at Rock Climbing

Its amazing how easy it is to stand on the tiniest ridges, even on a face that looks too steep. It couldn't be done without climbing shoes (at least for an amateur like me).
This one (right) was about 50' high and is a simple climb.

One of my first climbs (above) was at a spot called Woolly Spider. Climbs are rated by grade. 0 is perfectly flat. This one was a 5.0 which is pretty simple.

Your climbing partner (belay) is at the other end of your rope. Should you fall, your belay will catch the rope to keep you from falling too far.

My last climb was almost to 100'.

Doing this for the first time took a lot more mental strength than physical. Once you learn to trust your shoes and your belay, the rest isn't as hard as it looks, but it does take a lot of focus.
Thanks to my friend and teacher Tony who is an amazing climber, for his patience and time. You can visit his web site at ScubaRock.com

Repelling down Trash Can Rock (left)

Desert Photos