Aric Pope, recreational attendant, West Gym, searches for his next opportunity to advance up the rock-climbing wall at the West Gym, June 4, 2014. With air-conditioning, hydration readily available and safety systems in place, the rock-climbing wall at the West Gym offers a safe facility for all Combat Center patrons. - Aric Pope, recreational attendant, West Gym, searches for his next opportunity to advance up the rock-climbing wall at the West Gym, June 4, 2014. With air-conditioning, hydration readily available and safety systems in place, the rock-climbing wall at the West Gym offers a safe facility for all Combat Center patrons.
Pope has been climbing and hiking for the 13 years he has lived in Joshua Tree. Since the age of five he has also ridden dirt bikes, constantly seeking a thrill either in his day-to day life, in the open stretches of sand in the desert, or on the side of a mountain. - Pope has been climbing and hiking for the 13 years he has lived in Joshua Tree. Since the age of five he has also ridden dirt bikes, constantly seeking a thrill either in his day-to day life, in the open stretches of sand in the desert, or on the side of a mountain.
Sebastian Pereria, 8, son of Jose Pereria, crafter, Marine Corps Exchange, gets a firm grip on a rock during the Climbing Wall Family Night at the Combat Center's West Gym, Jan. 17, 2014. - Sebastian Pereria, 8, son of Jose Pereria, crafter, Marine Corps Exchange, gets a firm grip on a rock during the Climbing Wall Family Night at the Combat Center's West Gym, Jan. 17, 2014.