The past week has been filled with humidity, climbing, and great food. Kentucky isn’t all bad, but just about. The reason I went to Kentucky was for a climbing trip to the Red River Gorge with my friend from NCOBS, Danielle. We camped at Miguel’s Pizza, a climber-only campground behind the restaurant. Had it not been a pandemic, it would have been quite social. Regardless, it offered cheap camping and amenities, good food, and a good central location. We both enjoyed ourselves at Miguel’s, I certainly hope to be back in non-pandemic circumstances someday. So, yes, it was pretty hot for our climbing trip in The Red. Heat of the day would be almost 90 degrees and quite a hot sun. I did some reflecting and realized that I have only ever climbed in the summer heat, so there was no reason for me to shy away from it. Plus, for the grades I’m currently sending, conditions aren’t that big of a deal yet. Danielle and I spent Friday and Saturday in Muir Valley. I was so impressed with the facilities- loaner stick clips, a handwashing station, shaded picnic pavilion. I guess The Red is as primo as it gets around here (around anywhere?). On Sunday we headed to Pendergrass Murray, we found some awesome climbing as well as amazing geology. I was proud of my climbing efforts on this trip. Both in pushing my grade and in taking care of a nagging elbow sensitivity. I proudly lead climbed my first two 5.9’s, only to follow that up with my first two 5.10a’s. I am looking forward to more progression this fall. After climbing at The Red, Danielle and I headed to Lexington for the day on Monday. We dropped my car at our AirBnb then did some driving around bourbon country and a town called Millville. Danielle was investigating her family heritage for a project, and I was more than happy to come along for the ride. I’ve got nowhere else to be, so why not see a place I never imagined I’d spend time? No pics, but just imagine what you think Kentucky looks like and that's what it was like. Food highlightsMiguel's Pizza Red River Rockhouse - No pic, but after our last day of climbing we grabbed Rockhouse cheeseburgers and let me just say this burger is tied for #1 I ever had, the other #1 being my last night in Portugal with my friend Jess in 2017... and you can bet your bottom dollar that I blogged about that burger too (peep July '17). Mr. Krabs & Beans BBQ I spent the last day or so in western NC, in preparation for my Wilderness First Responder recertification course (WFA) coming up in Bryson City, NC. Following the WFA I’ll be headed out to Colorado. My Polarsteps app says I have been out 28 days, has it been that long already!? One month down, a quarter of the way through my long haul. This first month was definitely in my comfort zone. I can’t wait to finally get out west and into some big mountains! Comments are closed.
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