Escape From Beacon Rock
“For me, it was a way to stay connected—literally: tied to my free-range daughter by a length of 10-millimeter climbing rope, and connected to my own dream of being an adventurer,” says David Altschul. “And that was how I found myself, a few days later, on a ledge, high above the Columbia River, in the dark.”
For the past decade, David has told the story of the infamous “Escape From Beacon Rock”–a failed attempt to climb a basalt monolith with his daughter, our producer, Jen. At age 72, it dawned on him that, rather than continue to tell the story of the failed climb, he could connect with his daughter by actually climbing Beacon Rock, and doing it this time as a ‘real’ climber.
Music: If Walls Could Talk by Jacob Bain & Nis Kotto • The Fallen by MC Cullah • Thicker than Water by Jason Tyler Burton • Caterpillar by Little Glass Men • Pale Horse Rider by Vienna Ditto • Save My Soul by MC Cullah • Blazing Day by MC Cullah • Tightrope Walker by Jason Tyler Burton • Carried Away by Jason Tyler Burton
Tracks provided by Free Music Archive and with permission from the artists.
My favourite episode in a long time. Well done guys.
Had you not said your father was 70, I would have thought 40, especially towards the end. Wonderful story, goes to show that it’s never too late to become a badass.
Love this story. I’m 74 and David inspires me to honor the inner adventurer at any age. You guys rock!
For reasons that you will understand, Jen – this really took me back! Well done. BTW – I STILL make YOUR guacamole and get rave reviews. I always credit you. Love, Kate’s mom 🙂
Shucks, thanks, Jeanne! Good to hear from you. And a good reminder that I haven’t made guacamole in too long! Hope you’re well.
More than about a week w/o guacamole is just wrong, Jen. 😀
Thanks for setting me straight, as usual, Jeanne!
Dude David is my uncle. Super proud of you both!
Really really good guys can’t wait till the next episode
I’m a dad of three small kids and this episode struck a chord! Great job, everybody!
good job. Quality story.
As a father of a six year old girl who’s just getting in to climbing and has consequently gotten me into climbing, I LOVED this episode. Great job!!
Thank you both for this episode. Thanks David for reminding me of the rewards that come from not playing it too safe.
One of my favourite episodes so far. Jenn’s dad is a rockstar & a great storyteller. Hearing him talk about his daughter resonates with me as my boys grow up & move on. Perhaps I too can overcome inhibitions & fears & pursue adventure with them. Thanks for sharing your story.
Love the story. The climb was certainly worth 1.6 Life Points. A great way to get closer to your kids too.
Can you post the guacamole recipe, Jen?
It’s real simple!
1. Cut avocado in half. Remove pit. Use a spoon to scoop the green part into a bowl.
2. Add lime juice. (Approximately 1 lime per good sized avocado).
3. Use a fork to mash the avocado and lime together.
4. Add garlic powder, chili powder and salt to taste. DO NOT under-salt.
That’s it! Happy guacamole making.
This is by far my favorite episode of the Diaries, and I’ve listened to it several times. Dad Altschul’s story, his enthusiasm, his determination……there’s a lot to love about this, and I really appreciate you bringing it to us.
Incredible story, love the tenacity of this dude. It inspires me that no goal is unachievable if you put your mind to it. Thanks for sharing.