By Dave Force
Last fall, Mini-School took two field trips to Taylor’s Falls. These were for rock climbing, and were led by Mini-School’s John Eiden and Jerry Cox, a SWAS instructor.
There were knot tying seminars before each trip. These were to get the students accustomed to using the ropes. They also showed us how to use “diapers” and “beaners.” There were about 10 to 12 students on each trip. The instructors provided the transportation, ropes, and inspiration. The drive to the falls is a little over an hour. The falls are on the St. Croix River, right on the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin. The first thing we did when we arrived was to set up the ropes for repelling. This is when you put a rope around your waist, in case you fall, and another that is fixed to the rocks. This goes over your back, and into your right hand. Your right hand is used for breaking, or slowing down your descent. There are many different styles for going over. There are also many ways of talking yourself down. There is the silent way, when you think so hard you almost fall, and there is the way you scream so loud people almost go deaf. Climbing is a very tiring thing because you aren’t using a rope. You have to find your holds in the rocks and pull yourself up. When you finally get to the top you feel relieved that you made it. When you climb your legs and arms get very tired, and they start to shake. I hope to go on more of these trips in the spring. They are fun, and have some challenges. Also, the cost is very minimal compared to other trips. I will inform you of upcoming trips.