Rock climbing in Cascade Pass. File photo.
Northwood Outing Club climbers have gotten lucky with an exceptionally sunny and warm spring. Mr. Bob Emery has been taking students to explore the beautiful rocks and cliffs of the Adirondacks. They’ve had the opportunity to visit classic spots like the Beer Walls, Jewels and Gems, Pitchoff, and more. Skills such as belaying, anchor building, and knot-tying have been prioritized this season. Although almost everyone is at a different experience level, all kids can have the same fun experience as one another and bond over fun in the outdoors.
Students have had the opportunity to climb with the amazing Don Mellor on climbs such as Frosted Mug (5.9), Flying and Drinking and Drinking and Driving (5.10a), which was first put up by Mr. Mellor himself, and Tequila Mockingbird (5.10b). Individuals have had their own triumphs in climbing this season. For instance, Avery Novia ’24 had the incredible opportunity to work alongside Doug Ferguson, owner of Mountain Skills Climbing Guides, during her AMGA Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) course. Other students, like Alex Randall ’25 and Colton Cushman ’25, have stepped up to lead routes and set up top-rope climbs for their peers, demonstrating their growing confidence and skills.
Mr. Emery has given the NOC climbers a unique opportunity to push themselves, learn new technical skills, and get outside. While working with him, he gives lessons on the different types of anchor building, gear placement, and safety while climbing. As the 2023-24 school year ends, we could not be more grateful to Mother Nature for this beautiful weather. Northwood students will reflect on and remember their amazing adventures with the NOC climbing program this spring. Returning students are already giddy for this upcoming fall and cannot wait for what lies ahead as they enter their next year of school here in the incredible Adirondacks.
