Share an Adventure with Us!
Looking for something unique this holiday season to give is a gift?
Apex offers the gift of adventure through gift certificates. Climbers can choose their own adventure during a time that pleases them.
Share an Adventure with us this holiday season by calling 608-434-3360.
Happy Holidays from Lynn and Jill and the rest of the Apex Crew!
Camping and climbing at Devil’s Lake State Park is awesome. Getting to share that with others is also great. Know what is even better? 
Getting to share it with others for FOUR days. Last week I got the privilege of working with a youth group from near my home town. We camped, we climbed, we swam, we explored a river, we jumped into the water, and best of all, we all learned about each other and the world around us. Taking this time to reflect and build relationships is truly what being a guide is all about.
I have worked at other camps and regardless of location, getting to work with kids and adults alike, you see a changes in them after spending time in the wilderness. Without some of the stimulations we see in every day life, people are different. I see calm, relaxed, open, excited, and more. I not only see it in others, but I see it in myself too.
When we take away those stimulations, we also create space for relationships to thrive in ways that those stimulations can push away. Not once throughout the whole four days was someone busy on their phone instead of giving someone their full attention. With our attention turned to each other and ourselves, we start to listen better, we start to interact better, and we make room for more. More of whatever it is that we need.
So as I reflect on my time in the wilderness and each day I am allowed to spend time outside, I start to see myself more fully. I am better at achieving results when challenged. I have better, deeper, more solid relationships. And best of all, I am more of the best parts of me.
If you have time, check out what the world around us does to you.
– Jill Griffis
There are many amazing sites to see at Devil’s Lake. Lynn and I have done extensive exploring and for the past five seasons, I have very much enjoyed much of “The Lake.” Here is my top 5 list of my favorite natural attractions at Devil’s Lake State Park.
Grab your license (for purchase at most gas stations in Wisconsin), a tackle box, and your pole. Fishing is a great relaxing way to enjoy the lake. If you are lucky, you will land a big one and have a nice catch for dinner.
4. The south beach on a week day.Stop at the lake for less crowds and a beautiful serene beach on a week day. Evenings are also prime time to enjoy the quietness the lake has to offer. Of course, any time is the right time to swim, so jump in and splash around. Note that this activity is especially awesome after a day of climbing during the Summer!
Take the Balanced Rock Trail up the bluffs. Check out Balanced Rock on your way up, a naturally occurring rock formation. Keep hiking until you reach Devil’s Doorway, also a natural rock formation. Both have great views and are iconic to Devil’s Lake.
Take to a boat or raft to gain access to the middle of Devil’s Lake. This spot will not disappoint one bit. You can get a more full view of the extravagance of Devil’s Lake State Park. Can you name the different climbing areas?
Of course, this list can’t be complete without noting that when you reach the top of a climb, there are wonderful, unique views. No matter where you climb at Devil’s Lake, when you reach the top, look behind you. Don’t miss seeing Lake Wisconsin and the Wisconsin River from the CCC and Baraboo from the middle of the West Bluff.
Enjoy all these wonders of nature close to home. And you thought you needed to head westward… let me prove you wrong : )
– Jill
One of the best things about hanging out at Devil’s Lake State Park is the interesting array of insects, frogs, toads, and snakes we come across while guiding. Not only are these “finds” on the trails, but often on the actual climbs themselves! Climbers can be walking to their destination or reach up for that bomber hold, only to be surprised by any number of things including timber rattlers, toads, and spiders.
Not to worry, these encounters are rare and mostly harmless!
The following is a list of the few my favorite things found while guiding:
Wolf Spider – We see these guys on the side of the rocks. Not often, luckily. They never fail to be a freaky sighting.The Nature Center, located off the Devil’s Lake’s North Entrance offers a wealth of information and examples of wildlife at the lake, as well as a history of the lake and area. It’s well worth a visit. For information about hours visit their website.
We get A LOT of questions about what gear is best to start out when you want to start to build a climbing gear rack to Top Rope at Devil’s Lake. Since much of our clientele intends on heading on out to our local crag, Devil’s Lake State Park, here is a list of our recommendations for the Best Climbing Gear to Top Rope Devil’s Lake. You’ll find that what you need depends on what you want to do, how much time are willing to devote to being creative (and safe, always #1!). If you have further questions, please email us at info@apexadventurealliance.com. Also check out our Anchors Course to learn more.
Tough to get by on, but with a little creativity, possible for many climbs at Devil’s Lake. This is also gear that you will just need in general to be able to have a successful set up.
You’ll first need the “All Natural Rack” and then you can either combo with the Passive Rack or just go ahead and cover all of your bases and buy everything. It is fun to be a gear snob. Plan on quick set ups at Devil’s Lake with cams (as long as you have equalization and master points knots under yours belt).