Welcome, Climbers! - Wild Texas Forums: Parks, Travel & Recreation

Shannon · 03-02-2002, 06:41 PM

Welcome to our new Bouldering & Climbing Forum! As a non-climber, I've got a thing or two to learn about climbing culture. I look forward to hearing from those of you for whom "hanging around" takes a whole new meaning!

Be sure to check out our Web Guide's Climbing Category -- lots of links! Feel free to submit your favorite climbing gym, climbing forums or other sites for inclusion in our directory.

11-05-2003, 04:47 PM

Well if ya have never tried it you are missing out....I teach Cub Scout aged boys to climb and repel... we use a 40 tower at Sid Richardson Scout camp in Bridgport.

The look on there faces is priceless.

Ca Leath

Shannon · 11-05-2003, 06:44 PM

I know what you mean. Noah Grey, a talented artist & friend, captured some wonderful photos from a similar outing.

Some highlights from his "On the Ropes" series are on his website.

11-05-2003, 09:26 PM

Those look like they might have come from a COPE course...its designed to build self confidence...works really well.

Being involved with kids is always rewarding.

04-23-2005, 02:31 PM

I will be in the North Texas area in May and would like to check out the technical rock climbing opportunities in Palo Duro Canyon. Can you give me some specific info as to where the climbing sites are?

shimmer · 08-30-2006, 10:41 AM

I found this through google, and decided to register, as there is a serious lack of Texas climbing information out there, from any searches I've done.

I'm a newb. Total newb. My brother got me into an indoor gym a couple of week ago and since then I've been hooked...I haven't tried anything outdoors yet, but would love to once my skills improve.

So, I guess this is just me saying hi.

ploddinTod · 08-30-2006, 12:04 PM

Hey Shimmer,

Welcome to the forums. The only area I know about is in extreme west TX, Heuco Tanks State Historic Area just east of El Paso. It was about 15 years ago when I went bouldering there with a friend. He kinda wimped out on me and we ended up hiking around the cave areas created by the huge boulders.

There are pictographs on the granite walls in some areas, crafted by the Native Americans. And that was very interesting. The technical climbers were there too with their harnesses, ropes, bolts and whatever else they use.

I understand that in recent years some restrictions have been put it place due to vandalism, overuse, and such.

My thoughts still seek the high places but, in my aged wisdom, I keep my feet planted on terra firma.

shimmer · 08-30-2006, 02:25 PM

I'd love to say I'd be interested in going there but for now, I really don't want to drive all the way to El Paso area, considering it's a LONG friggen drive.

Thank you for the suggestion.
I'm basically keeping my eyes and ears and mind open as I'm trying to read and learn and climb in the places provided in my area (Arlington).

Thanks for the welcome!!

Shannon · 08-30-2006, 07:49 PM

Don't forget about Enchanted Rock State Natural Area!

DayTripper · 08-30-2006, 08:32 PM

And there is also an area at Lake Mineral Wells State Park called Penitentiary Hollow.

Go to http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/f...mineral_wells/

shimmer · 09-01-2006, 11:01 AM

Thank you for the suggestion!

oldarmy06 · 09-03-2006, 07:37 PM

i have climbed at the one in mineral wells. It is a really nice place to climb. just make sure you are going on a day with no rain or a heavy morning dew, the ywill not allow any climbing if the rocks are even a lil bit wet.

shimmer · 09-07-2006, 09:19 AM

Thanks y'all. I'm definitely looking into the links provided. May not make a great day trip for husband and kids with me but if we can leave the kids at home it may be fun!

03-26-2007, 06:45 AM

I am a non-climber too but I found the link very useful and interesting. I think I have to learn climbing now to add more adventure in my life.

arechiga_tony · 04-16-2007, 03:35 PM

i just started in the worl of bouldering and i found this forum very useful too!!!! im a 25 year old art student.......and i need to get out side more. So if any one is in the dallas area and wants to learn this awesome activity together......send me an e-mail....................tonyarechiga@gmail.com