No experience is required at all. I can teach basic belaying and safety very easily. As long as you pay attention its very safe and everyone has had a blast down there. See the photos from the last trip:

http://studentorganizations.smsu.edu/naturalhigh/2004-2005-photos.htm

We will cover climbing technique and safety training BEFORE getting on the edge.

General information about Sams Throne:

Its located near Mt. Judea Arkansas and is a little over 2 hours driving. It has beautiful mountains, great hiking, amazing views and incredible rock formations. There are excellent bluffs with views for stargazing and since its so far out of civilization it makes for a very awesome view.

We only make 2 turns the entire way once we are out of town so there arent many places to get confused.

Stuff youll need:

Food dont underestimate how hungry youll get. People usually burn 3,000-4,000 calories a day rock climbing if you go all out. Ill have a camp stove for that evening and breakfast but plan on not needing anything in the cooler or heated for snacks and lunch while on the rock bluff. If you have questions to suitable food, email me and Ill send you a list of recommendations. It usually goes with a good breakfast and snacking all day + lunch so plan accordingly.

If you want to pack a cooler for dinner for whatever you want to cook that's fine. Camp wood can be hard to find down there so keep that in mind when bringing burgers. We usually have a preference to NOT make a camp fire to reduce impact on the area and making our tents, clothes and gear smell like smoke. Unless specially requested, the club usually does not provide food on these trips (remember, it was a free trip), however if you munch off other peoples food, be nice and give a buck or two to help them replenish their stockpile for the next trip.

Water bottles: Youll want to carry 2 quarts (about 2 liters) during the day at a minimum during warm weather. It gets hot down in the Late Spring/Summer/Early Fall there so youll drink a lot. 1 to 1.5 L will usually suffice for cooler weather, but it's always best to have plenty. Ill have plenty of community water for us that will stay at camp, but I dont have enough water bottles for everyone. Cheap used or new bottled water bottles work great, so do emptied 2L bottles.

Backpack: It doesnt need to be big, just enough to carry your water, lunch and a bit of climbing gear in it. Your school book bag will likely be just fine as long as you dont mind it getting a little dusty and it is moderately durable. Large packs are actually a PITA down there due to the walk downs.

Climbing shoes: you NEED these. Go by Outdoor Adventures in the PSU to try on a pair and reserve them for the weekend. They should fit fairly snug, no rolling around of your foot in it but still able to walk comfortably. Active members get 50% off but they are cheap regardless. This is the only climbing gear Im going to need you to bring.

Harness: I have 6 or so quality adjustable harnesses already and can usually find a few more. If you already have one or can get one that fits you please do so.

Sleeping stuff: Tents are nice but some people prefer sleeping outside if the weather is so nice. If you have one and want it, bring it. The club has one if you need to borrow one. Let us know ahead of time if you are borrowing one so we can have it ready.

Personal hygiene items: There is no running water or bathroom facilities down there so think ahead. There is however, lots of privacy between camp sites.

Other stuff: Ive got a truck so we can haul the gear to the campsite, weight is less of a consideration (ie, this is not a ultra-light backpacking trip) but keep it reasonable, but comfortable. Camp chairs are always welcome additions as are anything like Frisbees. I'll bring the slacklines.