Buff Boulders (Rappelling Practice)

Join the Co-op for trip to Buff Boulders in the Hoosier National Forest. Our goal for the day is to practice Alpine SRT (Single Rope Technique) using the frog system.

If time permits, we may also visit Hemlock Cliffs afterward do some higher-up rappelling (about 30-40ft).

Buff Boulders

• Hike Distance: less than 1 mile.
• Hike Difficulty: A little bushwhacking and off-trail hiking is necessary to reach the boulders.
• Rappel Height: 10-20ft

Hemlock Cliffs

• Hike Distance: up to 2 miles
• Hike Difficulty: Easy
• Rappel Height: 30-40ft

What to Bring for Rappelling

• Helmet and gloves (required, no exceptions). (A bicycle helmet will do)
• Seat harness (if you have one)
• Frog system and descender (if you have one)

Standard Day Hiking Gear

• Sturdy shoes for hiking
• Day Bag
• Water (for drinking) and snacks
• Packed lunch (eaten on trail)
• Sunscreen and Bug spray
• Clean shoes for the car ride (leave in the car)

Schedule

ALL TIMES LISTED IN CST

• 8:30 - Depart from Newburgh
• 9:15 - Rendezvous at I-64, Exit 79 (IN-37), Marathon gas station
• 9:30 - Arrive at Buff Boulders
• Lunch at cars

... the rest is played by ear!

Notes

• If you're new to rappelling, this is a great opportunity to learn some basics in a low-stakes environment. If you don't already own gear, you're still welcome to join us. We'll be happy to let you try out our equipment, but at minimum, you need to bring a helmet and gloves.
• While there are other descending and ascending systems, we'll be focusing on the frog system and Alpine SRT methods for this session. This is because several of our Co-op members also use these techniques in caves, and they’re the systems we’re most familiar with.

Ground Rules

• Leave no trace, and pack out all your trash.
• No children.
• No pets.
• Helmet required near any rappel zone.

Maps / Information

• Carpool from Lowe's (Google Maps): https://maps.app.goo.gl/zirDCF5pCRUGr8zS9
• Rendevous point (Marathon @IN-37/I-64): https://maps.app.goo.gl/jUtWKALL1sgjcmg27
• Buff Boulders Parking (Google Maps): https://maps.app.goo.gl/krynsVt5hkmFHpdD8

Disclaimer: The Co-op and its associates do not serve as certified trainers. Participants accept full responsibility for their own safety and any risks associated with rappelling and vertical techniques.