Q/A with Black Hills Basecamp
Get to Know Black Hills Basecamp
Written & Interviewed by Peyton Hinn
Ideas are often thought of and forgotten. Talking with friends or family can mold some aspiring dreams, but what is that extra push that comes along now and again that gets the dreamers to materialize their visions? Well, I sat down with the owners of Black Hills Basecamp to see if I could pull the information from a perfect source.
Laura & Andrew Bellisle are active members of the Black Hills Climbers Coalition and the proud founders/owners of Black Hills Basecamp. I asked the couple a few questions in regards to getting to know them a little better, before their grand opening on February 29th and March 1st.
A view of the sneak peak competition hosted at Black Hills Basecamp on February 15th.
Q: Where can you be found if not at Basecamp?
A: Getting lost in the Hills trying to find boulders, Westminster church at my day job
L: Breadroot Co-op, hiking in the Hills with my dog!
Q: How long was Basecamp in the melting pot before the trigger was pulled?
A: This has been a 10-year dream, I thought would take 30. When we moved to Rapid City 2 years ago, I realized we could pull it off here sooner
L: We started seriously thinking about it in August 2019 and had committed to a lease by October!
Q: Advice for those learning to climb for the first time.
A: Worry more about mileage than about jumping grades. New climbers need to just enjoy the sport and try lots of moves to build a good base. Specific physical training for the sport can come later.
L: Learn how to fall and get back up.
Q: The best perk about Basecamp?
A: 24/7 access for members
L: Being part of the Black Hills climbing community
Q: Boulder, sport, or trad?
A: Yes!
L: Give me a good crack (and someone else to lead)
Q: Favorite place you’ve climbed.
A: Hueco Tanks
L: Yosemite
Q: What upcoming event at Basecamp are you most excited for?
A: The day I can help coach a youth team!
L: Olympic climbing finals watch party!
Q: Favorite holds at the gym?
A: Pinches
L: I love a good jug. I also love how hard this is for Andrew to answer
Q: Favorite route outside?
A: Loaded with Power, Hueco Tanks, TX
L: Regular Route Fairview Dome, Tuolumne, CA
Q: Toe hook or heel hook?
A: Bicycle
L: HEEEEEL
Q: What kind of chalk is your favorite?
A: Currently on a BD kick
L: Whatever is closest
Q: Overhang or vertical?
A: Overhang
L: Overhang
Q: What can people expect from Basecamp?
A: A positive environment with a variety of movement to help climbers learn new skills.
L: A place continually striving to provide the best place to train, meet new partners, and start new adventures.
Q: Fav bouldering shoe
A: La Sportiva Futuras
L: I got my Mythos in Yosemite and can’t seem to find another shoe. At some point, I’ll buy something more aggressive, but I love my Mythos!
Q: Fav bouldering pad?
A: So far I’ve primarily used Metolius pads because they’ve been the best bang for my buck, but there are some new companies coming to the market I’m psyched to try out.
L: Revival Climbing Coalition made our flooring, and it’s the best landing surface I’ve found!
Q: What is the biggest thing you want out of Basecamp?
A: A relaxed environment that encourages steady physical, mental, emotional, and all-around growth.
L: I want to see people encouraging each other, welcoming new climbers, and enjoying climbing in community.
Black Hills Basecamp founds/owners Laura & Andrew Bellisle & their dog!