Catching Up With CAT: North Shore Climbers Gathering

I’m turning 27 tomorrow, and I’ve been thinking about how much this weekend has come to mean to me. For the past four years, the North Shore Climbers Gathering has taken place on the same weekend as my birthday. Each year, I set the same goal: to climb over Lake Superior. Every time, I got a little bit closer. This year, I finally did it.

Being lowered over the water and climbing back up was an unforgettable experience. It felt like everything I’ve worked toward, both physically and mentally, came together in that moment. I’m really proud of myself. I am very afraid of heights, but I trusted my friends belaying me, the gear keeping me safe, and the anchors set up to hold it all in place. Most importantly though, I trusted myself, my abilities, and my bravery.

The North Shore has such a special place in my heart. The people, the hiking, the views all leave me feeling grounded and inspired. I’m grateful for the experience and excited to step into 27 surrounded by some of the most supportive, loving, and genuine people I know and having this memory to look back on.

-Lux