The Student News Site of Northern Michigan University

The North Wind

The North Wind

The North Wind

CLIMB ON — Despite bruised shins and jelly limbs, I (climbing on the right) reached the top of this 70-foot ice formation — affectionately named “The Dryer Hose” — with several words of encouragement and a few breaks. While physical strength is a must to reach the top, the mental roadblocks were much more complicated to conquer as I clung to the face of the ice.

Opinion — Ice climbing and the reward of perseverance

Andie Balenger March 21, 2023

I am the type of person who loves to be challenged. Whether it's academic, physical or mental trials, I love the process of overcoming hardships because of the great sense of accomplishment that awaits...

ADRENALINE — Vaughn heading down the static line to scope the route. This was the rope that I hung on while the others climbed.

Opinion — Ice climbing and the cold, cutting edge

Fischer Genau February 15, 2023

My friend likes to imagine himself falling when he climbs. A lot of climbers caution against this, saying you'll psych yourself out. Instead, it's best to just focus on the next move, the next handhold...

ICE CLIMBING - Rodriguez enjoys the view during a winter climb. Rodriguez is a PR Major in his last semester at Northern, and is currently president of South Superior Climbing Club.

Profile — Ice and Graduation: Vaughn Rodriguez’s Final Months at Northern

Harry Stine January 27, 2023

Vaughn Rodriguez didn’t know much about Northern before enrolling. All he knew was that he had a friend that needed a roommate at NMU, and before he knew it, he left Grand Rapids and found himself in...

Photo courtesy of Paul Mcsorley
PRO CLIMBING— An ice climber takes a breath during an ice climb in Munising, Michigan. January through March are typically the best times to ice climb in the U.P.

A moment with pro ice climber Paul Mcsorley

Peter Smedley February 18, 2021

The choice to have Michigan Ice Fest did not come easily for many of the climbers involved. Ice climbing provides a unique, temporary means of climbing that can only be done during certain times of the...

Photo courtesy of  David Hixenbaugh
COLD CLIMBING— RE253, intro to ice climbing is offered twice a year during the winter semester. Students travel to Munising and learn how to ice climb in the field.

COLD CLIMBING-- RE253, intro to ice climbing is offered twice a year during the winter semester. Students travel to Munising and learn how to ice climb in the field.

Ice climbing course keeps students active in chilling winter

Sophia Huhta February 17, 2021

As winter rages on and temperatures drop into the single digits, students may find it harder and harder to get outside and be active. But the students in RE253 Introduction to Ice Climbing take the cold...

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