Climbing - from New Mexico to the Dolomites (In-Person & Live-Streamed LAM Talk)

Join the Los Alamos Mountaineers for an exciting presentation at the July meeting. 

Rock climbing is more than just an adrenaline rush. It's a unique blend of problem-solving, physical challenge, and deep connection to the natural world. In this engaging presentation, Helga Schimkat will introduce audiences to the world of climbing, offering a window into what climbers actually do, the different styles of climbing, and the diverse landscapes they explore.

You’ve probably heard of rock climbing and seen some movies or video clips but perhaps you are curious about how it works and what people get out of it. This presentation will discuss what it is that rock climbers actually do and where they do it. Helga Schimkat has been climbing for six years both in climbing gyms and outside and will talk about the types of rock climbing, the gear climbers use and where they go, in New Mexico and elsewhere, including in her case, Nevada, Utah and the Dolomites.

Whether you're curious about how climbing works, thinking of trying it yourself, or just enjoy learning about human-powered exploration, this talk offers an accessible and inspiring look at the growing world of recreational climbing.

About the Presenter:

Helga Schimkat lives in Santa Fe with her husband and four cats. She spend a lot of time outdoors rock climbing. She still does some birding, hiking and backpacking but climbing commands most of her attention. Helga is a lawyer who worked in a variety of capacities including lobbying and otherwise being involved with environmental and animal nonprofits. She’s lived in Santa Fe thirty-two years and enjoys traveling to other countries and continents, often with seeing wildlife as the primary inspiration for a trip. 

Admission: Free (please select an in-person or virtual ticket).

Photo: Helga rock climbing.