Climbing Experience Program

City of Rocks National Reserve climbing instructor with student.

The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation offers visitors the opportunity to experience climbing on world-class granite.

What is the Climbing Experience Program?

The Climbing Experience Program is a chance for beginners to try rock climbing in a safe setting on some of the best granite in the country. Trained employees set up easy routes for the novice climber to get a feel for the rock. Visitors will be able to try their hand on a variety of routes and difficulties. Participants will be exposed to concepts, techniques, and equipment that serves as an excellent introduction to the sport of climbing.

Climber on granite wall.

Why Climb?

Come climbing to explore the scenic beauty of City of Rocks and gain new personal insights. Rock climbing a great way to be challenged physically and mentally.

City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park are among the premier rock climbing destinations in the U.S. Surveys show that over 50% of all visitors to City of Rocks listed rock climbing as their primary activity. Climbers began establishing routes here in the 1960’s. Since then, climbers have been enjoying these granite domes and spires, with over 750 routes ranging from easy walk-ups to some of the most difficult in the country. A growing number of visitors are coming to City of Rocks and Castle Rocks to discover rock climbing for the first time. Inquiries and requests for an introduction to the climbing experience have grown in recent years. Come discover what draws thousands of climbers to the “City” each year.

What We Provide

helmet, harness, climbing shoes, climbing gear, rope, a grand experience, professionally trained employees

What You Bring

closed toed shoes, shorts to the knee or long pants, water, sunscreen, camera, safe attitude, willingness to be challenged
 

Safety rules:

• Participating visitors may not bring pets to the site.
• Participants or non-participating members of the party may not climb or scramble on rocks unless directly supervised by the employee.
• Participants who fail to wear proper safety gear or otherwise behave in an unsafe manner will not be permitted on the ropes.
• For safety participants should listen and follow instructions of the employee to the best of their ability.
• Participants not currently climbing or non-participating members of the party should observe or visit quietly, but not offer guidance or distract the employee while the employee is assisting an active participant.

Participants Fee and Total Time
1 Adult - $37.50 - 2 - hours total time
2 Adults - $75.00 - 2-3 hours total time
3 Adults - $100.00 - 3 hours total time
4 Adults - $120.00 - 3 hours total time
1 Youth - $20.00 - 1 hour (2 or more youths 2-3 hours total time)
Youth Group (4) $80.003 hours, (over 4 youths add $10.00 per additional youth up to a maximum of 6 youths). Groups with 8 youths will be scheduled split sessions.

Where do I go from here?
So you’ve got a taste for climbing and you want to try some more?

Authorized professional guides in City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park:
· Exum Mountain Guides; 307-733-2297; [e-mail]
· Idaho Mountain Guides; 208-410-4925; [e-mail]
· Jackson Hole Mountain Guides; 800-239-7642; [e-mail]
· Sawtooth Mountain Guides; 208-774-3324; [e-mail]

Youth participating in the City of Rocks climbing experience program.

Get started on your own: Some equipment to consider as a starter package for the beginner climber. Always purchase climbing equipment from a reputable manufacturer.

· Helmet
· Locking carabiner
· Book on knots for climbers
· Harness
· Shoes
· Belay device
· Climbing rope - 60 meter plus

Go climbing with others who have experience before trying it on your own. Remember: Safety is the climber’s first responsibility to themselves and their partner.

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Make a Reservation
Call: 208-824-5901
E-mail: [e-mail]

Facebook.com/CityOfRocksNPS
Facebook.com/CastleRocksStatePark
nps.gov/ciro
parksandrecreation.idaho.gov

More Information
City of Rocks National Reserve
PO Box 169
Almo, ID 83312
208-824-5901