Heading for the Sun

Fun has no season, By: Sam Starr

By KAVU

December 15^th, 2020

The rock climbing season in Montana is short but thankfully, I have friends who are excited to make the drive down to the desert once (or twice) a year!

It always amazes me how different the landscape is from Bozeman to Moab. One day's worth of driving can transport you from a snowy mountain town to red rocks, cacti, and a lot of sand. On a trip like this, I am every bit as excited to cook on a two burner stove, sit around campfires, and enjoy friendship time with these awesome people, as I am to climb.

Making our way up Levitation 29, the climb that Lynn Hill is rumored to have said is her favorite climb of all time, was the gem that kicked off our trip.

Getting crowded on the way down only created a cozy little anchor for the four of us to laugh at. Sharing KAVU days like this is what it's all about!

Getting "benighted" on the descent is okay.... if you have good company!

And head lamps.

And haven't already run out of snacks:-)

We made a quick stop in the city of Las Vegas to see the lights, sleep in a real bed, and take a shower. It was much harder, as we discovered quickly, to socially distance here so, we did our best and didn't stay long.

Moab has to be my favorite desert destination. Growing up in the PNW (Pacific Northwest), I am used to trees, rain, and a humid coziness that seems very gentle. Moab could not be more different in it's environment and feels rugged...... even a little hostile, but so beautiful.

You gotta respect it and all the creatures that are able to thrive there.

Duncan continuing to perfect his signature look.

While we were preparing for this trip, training in our friend's basement really paid off!

Ha ha ha!

On our last day in the desert, we hiked up to climb "Fine Jade" on the Rectory.

It was a beautiful climb I'd always wanted to check out and had epic views the whole time. The route definitely didn't disappoint!

Exhausted and covered in sand, we made it back to Montana after another KAVU adventure. There's definitely something special about climbing friendships. Experiencing intense sites, sounds and emotion creates a special bond. Fear, self-doubt, celebrations, and success!