Smith the Climber's Rock and the Vertical Dance

 "Smith Rock is Oregon’s premier rock climbing destination, and one of the best sport climbing areas in the United States. This world-renowned sport climbing mecca has more than once been at the focal point of the climbing world."

Smith Rock is located in Terrebonne,Oregon between Redmond and Madras and is spectacular...

 ... and I particularly like these jagged spires.

"Located in the high desert in central Oregon, Smith Rock State Park’s cliffs and hillsides take a commanding presence over the surrounding terrain. The main cliffs are made of volcanic welded tuff, and surrounding bands of columnar basalt lie above the winding Crooked River."

 There are guides and climbing schools at Smith Rock to assist new climbers...

 ... and instruct the more advanced climbers.

 I wouldn't attempt this at my age or condition but it looks like a great sport for ...

 ...developing strength, agility and perhaps most important...

 ... judgement of our own abilities...

 ... and patience while waiting.

 Perhaps the most enlightening lesson is the one about teamwork and when and who to trust.

 This isn't a fast moving sport it is, however a fast thinking sport...

 ... knowing when to lunge for a handhold...

 ... and what to do when you grasp the safety of a vertical assist.

 So the climbers ascend...

 and descend in a controlled...

 Series of maneuvers...

...and at time learn to fly without wings in what has been called the "Vertical Dance"

Thought of the Day ~ “Jumping from boulder to boulder and never falling, with a heavy pack, is easier than it sounds; you just can't fall when you get into the rhythm of the dance.”
~ Jack Kerouac, The Dharma Bums