Have there been moments in your life when you ’ ve felt as if something were tamping you down , like a barista compressing loose coffee grounds ? Work stressors and concerns about loved ones have occupied your mind on occasion . When was the last time you were able to live in the moment , leaving pressures behind ? Have you felt truly energized and inspired lately ?
Professional Rock and ice climbers Kenny Parker and Kyle Kent of Fayetteville , WV , say that ascending some of the most demanding rock faces in the country rejuvenates them emotionally and physically . Though they face typical life stressors as we all do , when their feet leave the ground to climb that majestic sandstone crag , they dismiss all other thoughts , except for the challenge that lies before them .
“ Climbing is meditative ,” said Kent , co-owner and guide at Appalachian Mountain Guides . My entire focus is on what I ’ m doing and not any thoughts of work , relationships , or stressors . That is perhaps one of my favorite things about climbing .”
“ That is actually a big part of the appeal of climbing , that it makes you live in the moment ,” said Parker , co-owner and guide at Water Stone Outdoors . “ You aren ’ t thinking about work or any other problems , and I think that is a very healthy thing .”
Research shows that rock climbing reduces symptoms of depression , regulates emotional disorders , and combats anxiety . It improves memory and selfconfidence as well . Since climbing is often shared with a friend or partner , it also improves relationships , encouraging trust and communication .
Fayetteville has long been an area that outdoor enthusiasts flock to for rock climbing . Parker would like to see Summersville continue to draw more visitors . “ The same rock that ’ s in the New River Gorge is accessible in Summersville ,” Parker pointed out . “ The Summersville area is a goldmine of recreational activities , and it ’ s good for the economy .” Parker , also vice president of the non-profit climbing organization New River Alliance of Climbers , is responsible for replacing bolts in rock facings to ensure safe climbing , and trail building and maintenance leading to climbing access points .
During the heat of summer , Summersville Lake fills with boaters of all types and is a hub for outdoor adventures . Rock climbing on the lake has also become a much sought-after quest in recent years , boasting world class cliffs that welcome climbers from all over the globe . On August 22 , 2016 , Summersville was host to a unique type of climbing , when Parker and Army Corps Natural Resource Specialist Kevin Brown helped organize the first deep-water solo climb in the United States , held on Summersville Lake .
However , after the summer season temporarily leaves us and activities come to a slow crawl , the sandstone cliffs still await climbers , and a new brand of climbing even emerges : ice climbing . Summersville Lake is home to several waterfalls which freeze into a solid wall of ice , providing professional climbers such as Parker and Kent with an additional form of winter recreation in the area . Though similar to rock climbing , ice climbing features its own welcomed challenges .
“ When ice climbing , you need weeks of cold weather at near-freezing temperatures with a snow pack , [ the ice columns are ] built by a melt freeze cycle .” Kent said . “ But if it ’ s too cold , near zero , the ice becomes brittle and it ’ s not safe .” “ Sunny , cold days with cold nights are ideal ,” said Parker .
Ice climbing is rare in West Virginia , with only 15 to 20 days of climbing available due to the warmer climate , making it difficult to predict and make plans with others .
In comparison to rock climbing , ice climbing utilizes different methods and equipment . Top roping , a safer method , involves hooking your rope at the top of the ice column with the help of a belayer ( a person who controls the safety rope for a climber ), or a less safe method of lead climbing by hooking up at the bottom . Gloved hands wielding special axes with sharp picks , and crampons ( spikes ) on boots are used to gain traction on the frozen surface .
Though ice climbing is another exhilarating way to enjoy nature , Parker and Kent caution those who may be tempted to climb on their own without an experienced and professional climber .
“ With ice climbing , you have to be more particular about what you climb and your beginning decisionmaking process is most important ,” Kent said . “ The right temperatures , how the sun hits [ the ice column ], it ’ s actually scientific . Make sure you have proper knowledge and instruction , and don ’ t do anything you aren ’ t prepared to do . Be safe first .”
28 ❖ SOUTH ❖ NOVEMBER - DECEMBER ' 22