Catch up with SOAP

Devil's Lake, WI

On a beautiful September weekend, SOAP made the trek down state to the best climbing destination of the Midwest.  Devil's Lake State Park in Baraboo, Wisconsin is host to 1600 different climbs on magnificent purple quartzite.  SOAP participants were led by one of their own for an entire day of top-rope climbing with the sun on their backs and the slick rock at their fingertips.  A picturesque landscape of the south bluff made for a perfect lunchtime view from the east side cliffs.  The already incredible trip ended the best way possible...with sleeping bags rolled out under a blanket of stars and calm night of fresh fall air.

Superior Hiking Trail

The first of October was a welcoming day of high wind and a heavy chill, but SOAP persevered and enjoyed a night time nature walk on the Superior Hiking Trail.  The group hit the path at the Haines Road and Skyline Parkway for about a three mile jaunt.  This hike, the first of a few offered throughout the semester, is a great way to experience nature by simply stepping out the back door.  Keep an eye out for upcoming hikes, which are free to everyone.

Friday Night Paddle

If you crossed the Bong bridge on the second Friday of October you may have noticed a group of nine bright boats some 120 feet below.  SOAP members bundled up and turned on their lights for a calm evening of kayaking around the St. Louis Bay.  With brisk air and ducks flying overhead, the group enjoyed the sunset over Spirit Mountain followed by the nightly glow of the city.  This paddle was a great way to bring our open water season to a near close. 

Canoeing the Brule

As the snow began to fly and the trees stood under a coat of ice, SOAP participants pulled up their wool socks, hopped in canoes and cruised down the Brule river.  The group stayed mostly dry and had fun, singing and chatting, all the while taking in the great scenery.

Palisade Head Climbing

After a short drive up the North Shore of Lake Superior, SOAP members were welcomed with a spectacular view of volcanic rock plummeting well over 100 feet down into the deep blue lake.   Short glimpses of sunshine warmed the face of Palisade Head, a section of Tettegouche State Park, and made it beg to be climbed.  The participants spent the afternoon jamming the crack until frigid fingers put up a fight.  Nonetheless, this trip proved the natural beauty this area has to offer.