The LHS Outdoor Rec. P.E. class visited Granite Rock on Oct. 25 as a school field trip. LHS’s outdoor recreation P.E. Class is known for its various outdoor and hands-on trips.
Students had the opportunity to climb the University of Idaho’s 55-foot tall rock wall on Oct. 7 in order to get a feel for the sport of rock climbing.
A little over two weeks later, students went to Granite Rock just outside of Lewiston to experience the real deal with Adam Cadez-Schmidt, the outdoor rec. teacher.
“It was cool to actually use the rocks and my body differently than you would on an artificial rock wall,” said Sam Huff, a student who attended the trip.
Granite Rock presented challenges such as having to use small curves and cracks to climb a cliff reaching up to 30 ft high. Multiple climbing anchors were securely attached all along the top of the wall allowing climbers several various and uniquely challenging courses. A short tumbling course was offered to those wanting to make a small climb without ropes.
Students who attended the field trip to Granite Rock shared their overall experiences.
“It was a lot of fun; I’d never done it before,” said Savannah Swallow. “Although it was a little scary, repelling was the most thrilling part.”
Others acknowledged their challenges when taking on the wall.
“Climbing is the easy part; it’s coming back down that’s scary,” said Grayson Nightingale.
For those who accomplish the feat of climbing to the top, or those who more easily choose to take a short hike, all get to take in a stunning view of the surrounding hills and river.
