American Alpine Institute - Climbing Blog: Red Rock

Well, it was a busy November in Red Rock.

The weather was amazing, and lots of climbers enjoyed the perfect Fall sun, despite the shorter days. The nights were a bit chilly, but the campground was busy and climber camaraderie was in the air.

There have been a few events of note lately; that is in addition to the usual stuck rappel lines and descents in the dark. The Las Vegas Climbers Liaison Council recently co-sponsored a fundraiser for Tyrus Bachar, son of deceased climbing legend John Bachar. With help from Acopa Climbing Shoes, lots of volunteers, and the generosity of the American Alpine Institute, we were able to raise almost $1500. AAI donated a 6 day Alpinism 1 course that was the central feature of a silent auction. The main event was the Climbing Poker Night, where participants climbed five routes of their choice at the Red Rock Climbing Center, and were given a playing card for each. The holders of the best hands received prizes donated from Sterling Ropes, CiloGear, and many others.

The day after Thanksgiving, in conjunction with the BLM, the LVCLC also sponsored an Adopt-A-Crag event. Volunteers, including both locals and visiting climbers, helped clean up trash and wash chalk off the popular Kraft Boulders. In addition to that I worked with John Wilder and other LVCLC volunteers in replacing many of the outdated bolts and hardware at the Ultraman Crag. Gotta love that ½” stainless steel that the American Safe Climbing Association donated to the cause!

Thanks to everyone who participated in the events, and a special thanks to the BLM for their hospitality and support for the climbing community!

So here are a few pictures to motivate and inspire those of you that live in places that have what they call “winter”. I hope to see some of you here in the near future.