Having mostly climbed indoors, I’ve made tentative forays into climbing outdoors. It’s been hard to maintain a routine with it, particularly with inconsistent rota patterns and commitments. Slowly but surely, I’m finally getting enough experience under my belt that I’m not quaking in my boots every time I climb without plastic holds.

I had a climbing trip to El Chorro in April that made me realise just how much indoor climbing is prep to go outdoors. It is a fun sport in its own right, but the exposure, views, and mindfulness you get from hulking your way up a 30 meter climb has no comparison. Even getting to the crags in El Chorro is a joy. The winding streets pass imposing mountains with their rugged Andalusian appearance.

I’d never led outdoors and I tried my hand at a 30 meter route that was below my physical capabilities, but definitely felt very different from leading indoors. Despite bottling halfway through, it really whet my appetite to keep trying and gain the confidence to trust my judgment and abilities outdoors.

It was the views that convinced me. I recall getting up a challenging route, looking back and seeing a pristine blue lake surrounded by dense forests crawling up steep slopes.

Since then, I’ve been a bit more consistent with climbing outdoors in the UK. It’s been so fun jumping on trad routes, particularly at the VS/HVS level. I get into a flow state that’s just a joy to experience.

I even went on my first multi-pitch on Tennis Shoe at Idwal slabs. I smiled ear to ear as I made my way up the quartz and practically walked up the grippy slab. It was a pleasure to hear that it is also such a historical route with a first ascent in 1919 when it was climbed solo (which feels almost unbelievable considering how exposed the final section feels).

I think what I enjoy the most about climbing outdoors is the camaraderie. Enjoying a pint and watching the sunset over the imposing Cow and Calf quarry you’d spent the evening climbing at and listening to some of the epics people have had on their adventures is what makes these days out so special.