Rock Climbing Courses in Moab
SeasonYear-round, but peak is March-May and September-October |
Group size1-6 people |
DurationFull-day |
Skill levelAll skill levels are welcome! |
Thousands of routes await on Moab’s otherworldly rock formations
Moab is defined by its widely varied climbing. Splitter cracks, epic towers comprised of pristine sandstone, and canyoneering opportunities will leave you in awe. Located close to Arches and Canyonland National Parks, this section of stunning desert offers a lifetime of exploration. Experience routes ranging from beginner-friendly to advanced, backcountry multi-pitch. No matter your objectives, Moab will deliver. With literally thousands of routes at your fingertips, local rock climbing guides will help you make the best of your trip to Moab.
Try your hand at the incredible towers of Castle Valley where formations such as the Priest, Castleton and The Rectory can be found. I find routes like Kor-Ingalls and Fine Jade an absolute delight.
By Cody Bradford, AMGA certified rock guide
Most Popular Itineraries
Learn to Lead Course
So, you’re looking to master your skills, and want to lead your group to the top? Guided rock climbing courses in Moab are the perfect fit. You’ll expand your knowledge of belays, discuss soft and hard catches, soft roping, utilizing rests, falling areas, and route finding — everything you need to be a good leader and simply climb better.
Multi-Pitch Rock Climbing Day
If you have a solid understanding of building anchors and rappelling, upgrade your skills in Moab with this educational multi-pitch climbing adventure! Expect to climb more efficiently and go on longer routes. On your next venture, you’ll know which knots and equipment to use. Plus, gain better communication, movements and bailing safety.
Guides we recommend
The Mountain Guides
The Mountain Guides
Willie Benegas
IFMGA mountain guide
Willie Benegas
IFMGA mountain guide · 30 years of experience
Red River Adventures
Red River AdventuresRed River Adventures
Things you need to know
Why should I book with 57hours?
With us, it’s all play and no work for you! 57hours is an open platform that connects you with trained and certified outdoor adventure professionals all over the world. Using our tech-savvy, we make it super easy to find and book adventures worth tackling, with guides worth booking, all gathered from the first-hand experiences of the locals who adventure in these amazing locations.
Why should I go rock climbing?
Rock climbing is more than just a sport; it’s problem solving on-the-go. It’s a balance of intuition and fluidity of movement. The fun comes from the possibilities — each route with a variety of options and only a fraction of them leading to success. When you finally master a climb, after hours of practice, it transcends mere sport and is akin to art.
What’s included?
What you get in this adventure:
- An experienced, certified climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
- A full-day of guided rock climbing based on your chosen itinerary
- All technical climbing gear
- Transportation to and from the crags
Technical gear list
All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:
- Helmet
- Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device, and chalk bag
- Rock shoes* (included in the price, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them)
- Ropes
- Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)
What do I need to bring?
Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:
- Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 40L bag)
- Water bottle
- Food you can eat on-the-go
- Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
- Sunglasses
- Camera — optional
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
What if I’ve never climbed before?
No prior experience is necessary. Whether you’ve never donned a harness or you’re a seasoned climber, a guide will help you meet your individual objectives. Above all, your instructor’s number one priority is your safety.
What does a typical day look like?
- 9:00 am: Meet with the guide and check over your gear
- 9:30 am: Gear up and carpool to the cliffs
- 10:00 am: Spend the day climbing or learning techniques (based on your chosen itinerary)
- 12:30 pm – 1:00 pm: Lunch
- 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Build upon techniques developed in the morning session and explore additional terrain as time allows
How fit do I need to be?
Moab has plenty of beginner-friendly options, so if you can climb a ladder, you’ll find a rock climbing tour that’s just right. Being in good shape is always a plus, but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. So don’t let your perceived lack of strength keep you away from rock climbing — you’ve got what it takes.
What is the minimum age requirement?
Minimum age requirements depend on your trip of choice, but for most options, kids aged 8 and up can go out and try climbing!
What about group sizes and pricing?
Group sizes are usually between 1–6 people with one instructor. Also, costs per person may decrease as the group grows for private tours, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with friends and family.
Climbing days can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.
If you’re booking alone but want to join a group climbing class, you’ll be placed with peers of similar skill level.
What about bad weather?
As the saying goes, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad preparation,” and you can expect your guides to be fully prepared for anything. Inclement weather can always get in the way of climbing, but your guide will know the best spots to move to if the weather takes a turn.
On the rare occasion of truly bad weather, your instructor will present you with suitable alternatives. The most common practice is to reschedule your climbing to a more favorable day or suitable location nearby, if it exists.
If no options presented were viable to you, you will be issued a full refund.
Cancelation policy
All policies regarding cancellation, rescheduling and trip insurance will be clearly laid out by your guide prior to booking your adventure. Contact us if you’d like more information on a specific adventure.
Getting there and meeting location
You will meet your guide in Moab, at 1140 South Main Street. From there, it’s about a 30-minute car ride to the desert. If you don’t have transportation of your own, your guide can drive you. The closest airport is in Grand Junction, about 100 miles from Moab.
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