Though we’ve taken off our harnesses and thrown on our PFDs, this climbing season will not be forgotten. Our experiences fighting gravity live on in our memories, in photos, and of course, in the Wilskills Tripbook.
Some entries are heartwarming, some poetic, and some downright bewildering.
Enjoy.
Climbing 1 – Sand Rock, AL
“My last climbing trip I ended up with a sprained ankle, but I was rockin’ and rollin’ for another go at climbing! I really tested my limits and felt like I really improved my skills – I climbed my first 5.8! Company was spectacular, and Blake, Scarano, Dylan and Haley were kickass instructors. Highlights- Sleepovers with my G Caitlin in the ridgeline, the 4 matts, prancing Haley, Lupi’s pizzzzzza, “Home is wherever I’m with you”, ALMOST getting kicked out of Walmart, K-Dyl-Tru, “Lucy!Luuuuuucy!”, and bonding around the campfire. I love everybody! Wilskills Forever”
–Kat Klock
“This is my first Wilskills trip and first time climbing, and it was a great experience. I’m glad to have joined Wilskills and I’ve found the group to be really accepting. I made a lot of new friends, and I regret not joining until so late in my Vandy career. These are some of the coolest people I’ve met in college so far – thanks for a great trip!”
–Scott Cardone
“At six in the morning, I’m funky,
At seven in the morning, I’m funky,
At eight in the morning, I’m funky,
I’m the funkiest man alive”.
–Anonymous
Climbing 2 – Jackson Falls, IL
“My first trip this semester went to the same place as my first trip last semester, and it was awesome. Climbing outside again was really great, especially now that I know what I’m supposed to be doing. People on the trip were amazing, as usual, and I made some great new friends 
. Also, this trip has thoroughly reminded me of how sweaty, sore, and satisfied these trips can make you.”
–Sabina Dang
“If Ryan and Kelly hadn’t pushed me into this trip last minute, I wouldn’t have led a bunch of climbs for the first time, seen the Slender Moon, or danced in a gas station. Good call, guys”
–Sam French
Climbing 3 – Red River Gorge, KY
“Miguel’s pizza,
Jumping frogs,
Lots of climbing,
Running dogs,
Chilly nights,
With massage trains,
Thank the lord it didn’t rain!
A wonderful weekend with Climbing 3,
A memoir is left – a nicely bruised knee!”
–Maria
“My first Wilskills trip… My first time climbing… my first Real outdoor experience! This weekend was a weekend of many firsts, and it was absolutely wonderful. There were many times I was ready to stop and come down – it was scary, my arms were shaking. There was a constant fear of falling, but everyone was so supportive and encouraging, pushing me to pull through. I don’t think I would have made it if it weren’t for them. Climbing definitely is a rewarding experience – when you reach the top, you feel like you’re on top of the world! But the people? Pretty awesome. Thank you!! I can’t wait for the next trip.”
–Karen
Climbing 4 – Sand Rock, AL
“It wasn’t until my last Wilskills climbing trip (after 4 years!) that I discovered Sand Rock.
Some highlights:
-”Caving” in the crack systems
-Hanging out on top of the boulders
-Scrambling
-Night time hangouts on top of the pinnacle (after climbing up there)
-Guacamole
-Guitar-filled afternoons”
–Harrison Dreves
“If I could describe this trip in one word it would be LOVE! This was my favorite trip thus far. The weather could not have been better, and the company was great. White van = Party Van!! Bunny Rave and Bunny Ear send! This was the perfect way to kickoff springtime – laying in the hammocks next to the fire, playing games, and getting to know old and new friends was a perfect way to spend my Saturday. So happy and grateful for Wilskills <3″
–Savannah B.
“My dearest Wilskills,
I can’t believe I’ve lived in Alabama my whole life and never been to Sand Rock. I had SO much fun on my third climbing trip. Highlight was definitely caving though. Anyways, yeah. Cool stuff.
Much love,
Alex”
![Climbing4[2]](http://studentorgs.vanderbilt.edu/wilskills/wp-content/uploads/Climbing42.jpg "Climbing4[2]")
