Rock Climbing in Rocky Mountain National Park

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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 you get in this adventure:

• An experienced, local rock-climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
• Full day of rock climbing each day (depending on your chosen itinerary)
• All technical climbing gear
• Day park fee

What’s not included:

• Transportation
• Food
• Lodging

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 and rappel devices, and chalk bag
• Ropes
• Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to 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
• Rock shoes (can be rented, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them)

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.

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.

Your exact itinerary will depend on your chosen adventure. Full days of multi-pitch and alpine climbing will start earlier and end later. Here is what a typical full day out looks like:

• 8:30am: Meet your guide at the guide’s recommended location
• 9:30am: Gear up and head to the cliffs
• 10:00am: Start climbing your objective for the day
• 12:30pm – 1:00pm: Lunch (bring snacks and plenty of water)
• 1:00pm to 5:00pm: Build upon techniques developed in the morning session and explore additional terrain as time allows
• 5:00pm: Call it a day and head home

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. So don’t let your perceived lack of strength keep you away from rock climbing — you’ve got what it takes.

12 is the minimum age for guided climbing in Rocky Mountain National Park. If your group has climbers under the age of 18, let us know prior to booking and we will let you know the requirements.

Group sizes are usually between 1–3 people with one guide, but you can also go with a larger group of up to 6 people per guide. Climbing days can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.

Costs per person may decrease as the group grows for private tours, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with friends and family.

As the saying goes, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad preparation.” 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.

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.

You will meet your guide at the climbing area’s parking lots. Your guide can lead the way to and from if needed.