Smith Rock Spring Thing

As a climber, Smith Rock State Park has been home to me (Vanessa) for little over a year now.  In the last 2 or 3 years of my climbing interest, I have met an abundant amount of people that will forever be in my heart.  Everyone knows everyone in this community, everyone has the same struggles no matter what experience level they are at and comes together when they are needed.

Beautiful Smith Rock State Park

Needless to say, the 20th Annual Smith Rock Spring Thing went off with a hit!  With a $4,000 grant from the American Alpine Coalition, the volunteers and the Smith Rock Group organization were able to put up new stairs to make access easier to the climbing areas.  180+ volunteers helped out this weekend and finished a ton of projects.  All of these projects help keep Smith Rock a beautiful destination for climbers, hikers, and mountain bikers alike.  It was great to see how many people wanted to help!

Grant Ortman and Ethan Holt lifting a heavy rock to help a wall settle in.

The Volunteer party afterwards was a ton of fun as well!  There was yoga, slacklining, tons of food, prizes and great company.  I can honestly say that I am looking forward to next year and to see all the projects that will come of it.

Myself discussing with Walker (BEA climbing team kid) the importance of community service.

Both Victoria and I are very excited to be apart of an awesome community!

Come participate in local events during your stay here!

Vanessa Burdick for:

Alpenglow Vacation Rentals

Bend, Oregon

541.385.7100

http://www.AlpenglowVacationRentals.com
(photos taken by Victoria J. Smith)