Imagine gripping onto a rock face, your focus narrowed to just your next move, the world's noise fading into silence. For JD Borgeson of the Arkansas Climbing Coalition, this mental clarity represents rock climbing's greatest gift—a complete escape from our distracted modern lives into pure presence.

"When you're climbing, you're thinking about how tired you are, where you are on the climb, what your next move is," JD explains. "You really don't have an opportunity to think of much else." This natural flow state aligns perfectly with our season's "Live Slow, Rewild" theme, as climbing strips away digital distractions and reconnects us with our most fundamental human capabilities.

Arkansas might surprise you as a climbing destination, yet it offers world-class opportunities without the crowds found in more famous locations. From epic multi-pitch adventures to accessible urban crags, the state's diverse climbing landscape caters to all skill levels. JD walks us through the different climbing styles—bouldering, sport climbing, and traditional climbing—while emphasizing the sport's accessibility: "If you can climb a ladder, you can absolutely climb a rock."

The Arkansas Climbing Coalition's work extends beyond simply promoting the sport. Their mission centers on preserving access to existing climbing areas through sustainable trail maintenance and hardware replacement, while also opening new areas like Crystal Bluff in North Little Rock. This urban crag development represents a rare achievement in climbing accessibility, bringing approximately 100 routes within minutes of downtown.

For those inspired to try climbing, JD offers practical advice on where to start: local climbing gyms provide safe introduction, while beginner-friendly outdoor locations like Horseshoe Canyon near Jasper offer natural experiences with established facilities. The climbing community welcomes newcomers through events like the annual Arkansas Climbers Festival, which draws hundreds for a weekend of climbing, learning, and community building.

Ready to escape the digital noise and rediscover your connection to the natural world? Grab some climbing shoes and discover what happens when you focus only on the rock beneath your hands. As JD reminds us, sometimes the greatest adventures come when we leave our phones behind and simply engage with the present moment.

Arkansas Climbers Coalition Website:

https://www.arkansasclimbers.org/

Arkansas Climbers Coalition Facebook:

https://m.facebook.com/arkansasclimbers/

Email: [email protected]

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What is the Natural Obsession Podcast all about?

Growing up, we all had those moments in nature that stuck with us—whether it was a quiet walk in the woods or a grand adventure. On Natural Obsession, it’s our desire to bring those moments to life. As we talk to people from all walks of life we will learn how they fell in love with the outdoors, the different ways they enjoy it today, and explore how we can work together to ensure these spaces are around for years to come. It’s all about sharing memories from the outdoors and ensuring future generations can make their own.

To find out more about Natural Obsession and hosts, Daniel Emison and TJ Virden, visit our website at https://www.natob.co/.

If you have questions about episodes or have guest recommendations please email us at [email protected].

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