Smith Rock State Park

Last week while in Bend, we spent one day at Smith Rock State Park. Usually we just hike there, but this time our purpose was to do some rock climbing. Kevin's friend, Cash, is really into climbing and agreed to set up some climbs for us to do. 

Instead of heading down into the valley and crossing the river like usual, we headed to the end of the park and did some climbing in a new to us area. It was nice to see something new for a change.

We all took turns climbing. It's quite different when you are climbing on real rock vs. the climbing in a gym. I much prefer gym climbing! Sydney was VERY determined to successfully finish her climbs. It's unusual to see that kind of determination in her.

As I was looking across the valley at these beautiful and amazing rock formations, I noticed a slack line hanging between two of the peaks to the left of this photo.

If you look really closely, you can see it below...

After several minutes we saw a guy starting out on the line...

He crossed twice - there and back - without falling at all. It was amazing and CRAZY.

Then a second guy started out. He wasn't quite as balanced and he fell several times. It was interesting to watch him bounce back up, stand up and continue across.

As we were leaving we saw several different slack lines set up throughout the park. Apparently it's gaining in popularity. It's pretty crazy to watch it - you can't help but feel nervous for the guys who are out on it!