New River Gorge, WV

This is where I became a climber. This place inspired, challenged, and soothed me during some of the most challenging points in my life. It's been about a year since I was last there and it was glorious fun to go back. A whole crew of friends came up from NC and we laughed and climbed till our hearts content.


Swimming at Sommersville Lake


Dinner at Pies and Pints



My awesome belay stance


View of the gorge from the top of the climb


We missed our route and got a little lost.


After finally finding the area we were looking for, most of the routes within my range were taken. But, I was determined to lead something. Although, none of the "pull hards" wanted to get on it, I decided this 5.8 offwidth was mine. I took my first lead fall on gear here on a # 5 cam. Though it was totally fine, I would be very happy to never fall on gear again. It's called "screamer crack" and it definitely made me scream!