First Ropes: Learning to Climb in Colorado Springs’ Red Rocks
Begin outdoors with confidence: knot-tying, belaying, and the first steps toward big-wall skills
You get to the red stone before sunrise and the slabs already feel like old friends—warm, patient, slightly abrasive under your palms. The city is still below, shrouded in a morning that tastes like coffee and the dust of a place shaped by wind. A guide clips a harness onto your waist with the kind of practiced calm that steadies even the most jittery beginner. Today is less about conquering a summit and more about meeting rock on its terms: learning to tie in, belay with confidence, and read a line. For anyone ready to flip the indoor gym routine into a day outside, the Beginner Rock Climbing Skills Workshop in Colorado Springs hands you the fundamentals and the context to make the next climb safer and more rewarding.
Trail Wisdom
Practice Before You Go
Work on a figure-eight knot and basic gym belaying skills to get more out of a full-day outdoor workshop.
Layer for Fast Weather
Bring a breathable midlayer and wind shell—conditions can swing from hot to blustery in an afternoon.
Respect Local Rock
Use removable chalk and avoid fixed bolts unless placed by local stewards; follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
Footwear Matters
If you have climbing shoes, bring them; otherwise ask the operator—appropriate footwear speeds learning and reduces injury risk.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Balanced Rock viewpoint at Garden of the Gods for sunrise shots
- •Red Rock Canyon Open Space for quieter practice walls and short hikes
Wildlife
Mule deer, Peregrine falcons
Conservation Note
Climbers are asked to follow local access rules, avoid bolting without permission, and use removable chalk to minimize impact on sandstone.
Garden of the Gods and surrounding red rocks were sacred to Indigenous groups and later preserved when the Perkins family donated the land to Colorado Springs in 1909.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Cooler temperatures, Good early-season sunlight, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Late snow patches, Mud on approach trails
Spring brings cool climbing temps and blooming foothills, but check for snowmelt and wet approaches that can make routes slick.
summer
Best for: Consistent daylight, Longer sessions, Warm morning rock
Challenges: Heat, afternoon storms, Higher visitor numbers
Summer is ideal for long practice days—start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and carry extra water.
fall
Best for: Crisp weather, Stable conditions, Great colors for photography
Challenges: Shorter days, Cooler mornings
Fall offers some of the best climbing conditions with cooler, stable weather—expect brisk mornings that warm mid-day.
winter
Best for: Quiet crags, Technique work on cold days
Challenges: Ice and snow on routes, Limited guide availability
Winter climbing is possible but limited—many routes get icy; full-day workshops may be less frequent and require cold-weather gear.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Climbing shoes
If you own them they improve footwork and comfort on rock; rental availability varies.
Approach shoesEssential
Stable, grippy shoes for the approach and scrambling on slick sandstone.
Sun protection (hat + SPF)Essential
High-desert sun is strong—protect exposed skin during long stationary belays.
Lightweight insulated layerEssential
A warm midlayer or light jacket guards against cool mornings and windy belay ledges.
Common Questions
Do I need prior climbing experience?
No—this workshop is built for beginners. Guides start with basic knots, harness fit, and belaying before moving to short top-rope climbs.
Is gear provided?
Most operators supply harnesses, helmets, and ropes; climbers often provide shoes. Confirm with the provider ahead of time.
What is the minimum age?
Age limits vary by operator—many accept teens with guardian consent; check the specific tour policy before booking.
What happens in bad weather?
Workshops are typically rescheduled or moved to alternative sites in cases of lightning or unsafe conditions; operators outline cancellation policies during booking.
Will I learn to lead climb?
No—this workshop focuses on top-rope safety and foundational skills; lead climbing is an advanced skill usually taught in follow-up courses.
How many people are in a group?
Group sizes are generally small to keep instructor-to-student ratios low; private bookings are often available for customized instruction.
What to Pack
Approach shoes for stable footing, sun protection (hat + SPF) for exposed belays, layered midlayer for changing temperatures, water (2+ liters) to stay hydrated
Did You Know
Garden of the Gods was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1971 for its unique red sandstone formations and geologic history.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning sessions to avoid afternoon storms; confirm gear included before arrival; carry cash or card for park passes; check guide cancellation policy for weather.
Local Flavor
After a day on the rock, head to Old Colorado City for craft beer at Bristol Brewing Company or a casual meal on a shaded patio; the neighborhood’s historic storefronts and local cafés make a good post-climb ritual.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport / trailhead: Colorado Springs Airport (COS) / Garden of the Gods or local crag; Driving distance from the airport: ~25 minutes to Garden of the Gods; Cell service: generally good in town, patchy near some crags; Permits or passes required: Some parks require a vehicle day-use fee—check the specific site.
Sustainability Note
Follow Leave No Trace: stick to established trails, pack out trash, minimize chalk use on sandstone, and respect seasonal wildlife closures to protect nesting birds and fragile vegetation.
Continue Reading
Close to the Clouds: Climbing Mount Meru’s Volcanic Ridges
A three- to four-day climb through montane forest, volcanic ash, and alpine ridgelines—Mount Meru offers wildlife, technical fitness challenges, and sweeping summit views a short drive from Arusha.
Arusha, Arusha Region
Vertical Limestone: A Half-Day Climb at Batu Caves
Spend a compact morning learning to read limestone and push your limits on 30‑meter routes at Batu Caves. This half-day guided climb pairs technical coaching with a culturally rich setting—perfect for first-timers and seasoned climbers seeking quick, high-quality vertical time.
Kuala Lumpur, Selangor