Rock Climbing in Custer State Park

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re travelling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Custer State Park, South Dakota, please refer to the official COVID-19 updates by the U.S. Government for South Dakota.

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

What you get in this adventure:

• • Experienced rock-climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  • 4, 6 or 8 hours of rock climbing in Custer State Park
  • All technical climbing gear

What’s not included:

• • Transportation
  • Food and snacks
  • Beverages
  • Accommodation

If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. 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. To ensure you have a fun retreat, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.

Custer State Park has plenty of options for beginner climbers. Whether you’ve never climbed before or are transitioning from the gym to outdoor climbing, your guide will customize the day to suit your skill level and objectives. With a guide by your side, you’ll learn something new, stay safe on the rocks, and most importantly, have fun!

For intermediate to advanced climbers, Custer State Park has loads of routes to spend the day on. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals. Let your guide plan the day so you can focus on developing your skills while climbing the classic routes or best hidden gems the area has to offer.

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
  • Ropes
  • Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)
  • Belay device
  • Chalk bag
  • Harness with a locking carabiner
  • Rock shoes

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
  • 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.

Group sizes and prices:

• • For the group half-day adventure, the max client to guide ratio is 6:1 and cost is per person. The cost does not decrease as the group grows.
  • For the private adventures, the max client to guide ratio is 3:1 and cost is per person. Costs per person decrease as the group grows, making it a perfect opportunity to go climbing with your friends and family.

If you are traveling with a bigger group, let us know and we will make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:

• • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  • Minors as young as 5 may be permitted to climb on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

To get to Custer State Park, most people fly to Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), which is 40 minutes away. You can rent a car or use one of the local shuttle companies to get to the Custer State Park.

All classes meet at 7:45 am at the South Dakota Outdoor Shop in Custer, South Dakota. Afternoon courses may be offered subject to guide availability and weather. From there, you’ll head to the climbing location and begin your day of adventure!