Rock Climbing Courses & Classes - Salt Lake City area, Utah
Frequently Asked Questions - Rock Climbing
Can I lead?
We teach learn-to-lead classes, but a back-up top-rope is always included for safety. Typically the guide belays on a gri-gri while jugging up a fixed rope beside the new leader. This enables the instructor to give immediate feedback on the effectiveness of cam and stopper placements.
How old do I need to be to climb?
For custom guiding and instruction, there is no restriction. Students must be at least 14 years of age to join a group class. Even five and six-year olds seem to enjoy rock-climbs with short approaches and lots of holds. Longer approaches and multi-pitch climbing is typically not appropriate for kids under 10.
Should I wear pants or shorts?
Many warm days are better for shorts, but always carry a pair of water-resistant pants in case it gets cool, windy or rainy. Shorts should always be long enough to go under the entire harness. Granite climbs can be abrasive on bare skin.
Eric Shmookler on "Tingey's Terror"
Photography by Tyson Bradley
How tight should my rock shoes fit?
If you are doing multi-pitch climb and / or just learning, get a half-size bigger shoe than the sales or rental clerk recommends. Nothing spoils the fun quicker than foot pain. If you are trying to progress upward from a level at 5.10 or above, the old saying is true: No pain, no gain. Fit 'em snug!
Where do I meet my guide?
The guide will arrange a specific meeting location and time with you specifically. Most commonly, this location is the Big Cottonwood Canyon Park & Ride Lot.
Testimonials
Thank you so much for helping me set up Bob's surprise clinic. He absolutely loved it and can't say enough good things about Colby. He had a great day and I appreciate everything you guys did to make that happen!
- Lauren Maerz
Micah was an awesome guide. I am a engineering software trainer and part-time dance instructor myself, so I really appreciate a high quality instructor and a high level of professionalism. I am a beginner and Micah made everything very easy for me. He clearly knows his stuff and makes it easy and very safe. The whole day was very enjoyable.
- Joe Meikle
I had a great training session with Quino today. I thought that he was a great instructor: patient, safe, knowledgable, and professional.
- Wayne Stump
My son, (age 13) and I recently spent a couple days climbing in Big Cottonwood Canyon with Annie Trujillo. We're both pretty new to climbing; We had a great time, and Annie was a great guide. She taught us a lot, challenged us, helped us keep ourselves safe, and made the trip fun and rewarding. Best of all, my son loved it and says he'll do it again.
- Greg Smith
Utah Mountain Adventures
P.O. Box 521809
Salt Lake City, Utah 84152-1809
Phone: (801) 550 3986
Fax: (801) 486 8505
