Climbing the Swiss Alps

Camping at Paleo, with the Swiss Alps as the backdrop gave me an overwhelming urge to go rock climbing. After a quick trip to town to do some research, I found there was a nice crag just a short train ride into the mountains. It was a nice spot. Nothing totally amazing, but several different faces with 30-70 foot routes, all bolted for sport leading. Unfortunately, it was the middle of the day in the middle of the week, so no one was there. I enjoyed the view for a short bit, but then decided there was only one thing that could be done…..gotta free solo it.

There were some areas that were not too high (30 feet) and looked pretty easy (5.6/5.7-ish). So I did two climbs that were not too risky. Then I found a really nice area that looked great to boulder and traverse. (I know all the non-climbers have no idea what I am talking about). I got in the zone and was working a nice combination of moves; so much so that I suddenly found myself 25 feet up. My ‘no-limitations’ side took over and decided it was easier to finish going up than to downclimb. At about 40 feet I started to second guess that decision, but now it really was too late; had to make a 5.9+ move over a little bulge to be able to top out. My heart thought it felt more like a 10c move at this height with no rope. Wow what a rush! Now that is what I call experiencing the Swiss Alps.

After the climb I sat at the top and basked in my glory for a few minutes. Just enough time for some other climbers to arrive…with ropes. Great timing. So I made a few new friends and got to do some more climbing with them. Climbers are always so friendly.