I have visited Interstate State park more than any other state park in the over the past few years. I've enjoyed hiking and camping there, but until recently, I hadn't gotten the opportunity to go climbing there. I was excited at this opportunity and ended up really enjoying the experience.
My friend and I got to the park early in order to watch a more experienced climber set up some anchors for top rope climbs. It was interesting to learn about some of the different types of equipment that are used in order to have a safe anchor for climbing. For the routes we were climbing, there were 3 anchors for each rope.
After watching the anchors get set up, we got some climbing in. Two of the three routes that I did that day were pretty easy, probably around 5.6-5.7 (but I'm no real expert here). They were both right alongside a paved trail that many park goers walk down. I think the hardest part of those climbs was that there were a lot of people watching and that it wasn't obvious where to put your feet vs in the gym when holds are taped. The final route that I did was significantly more difficult, and I found out afterwards that it is rated a 5.10a. I had a lot of fun climbing this route, which featured a long crack. I was able to finish the route, which made me feel pretty good.
By the time I left, there were a lot of people climbing at the park. So getting there early was a good move on our part.
It was really a great day for a lot of outdoor activities, but I couldn't have been happier with the climbing experience. I definitely recommend going there, for the reasons I've listed before, and now because it I learned first hand that it is a great place to climb.
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