Bear Creek is available almost year round for climbing and rappelling. Of course, check the calendar, facilities, and with Ken before driving out there. Troop 361 enjoyed climbing and rappelling the Short Cliffs behind the check-in cottage, and their diligent scribe recorded the experience.
One Troop’s Experience Climbing at Bear Creek Scout Ranch
by: Erin Heilbrun
Troop 361 went rock climbing at Bear Creek SR, and while there, learned how to climb and rappel, as well as climbing merit badge requirements. Scouts got to experience on natural rocks, over hanging cliffs, and free rappelling.
For many of these girls, it was their first time rappelling. “We learned to get over our fear of heights, trust the ropes, and have fun. For most of us, it was our first time climbing a natural rock face which is different from a rock wall. On the natural face we had to find small cracks and holes in the rock to get a grip or handhold. We didn’t have to do that on the rock wall at McGimsey,” wrote Erin.
“At the end of the day, we helped take down the rigging, and learned how to put away equipment. This included checking ropes for wear, wrapping the ropes up, counting harnesses and helmets, and keeping the equipment safe and away from weather and animals. At the end of the campout, about five of us went home with the climbing merit badge completed. We want to come back to rappel the 100 foot OA Cliff!”
Want To Take Your Unit Climbing?
