Frequently Asked Questions
Skill and Equipment
What is rock climbing?
Rock climbing is ascending rock cliffs using ropes and other specialized equipment for safety.
Is this an artificial wall?
No! All of our climbing classes and adventures take place on real outdoor cliffs.
Do I need experience?
No. We offer skill appropriate adventures for both first timers and veterans.
Do I need equipment?
No. We supply everything you need including climbing shoes, harnesses, and helmets.
You are welcome to bring your own equipment if you have it.
Do you need our shoe sizes?
Typically no. We will size you upon arrival.
If required, your guide will reach out to you.
Is there a weight limit?
For all beginner sessions, there is no weight limit.
Feel free to contact us with questions.
Is the equipment safe?
We only use equipment that is certified for climbing and is well maintained.
Staff and Certifications
How is my guide trained?
Your trip leader will have an American Mountain Guide Association Certification, be trained on the location and terrain of your trip, and hold a certification in wilderness medicine.
Who is the AMGA?
The American Mountain Guide Association (AMGA) is the main training and certification body for professional rock climbing guides and instructors. We require all trip leaders to hold a certification based on the terrain.
Does staff have medical training?
All trip leaders have an appropriate level wilderness medical certification for the terrain on which they operate. They also carry Medical Kits and undergo periodic training.
How do you choose your Guides?
We start by vetting certifications and previous experience. Many of our guides have yeas of experience leading trips around the world.
But we also find the humanistic aspect to be just as important, so we vet for cool tempered but heads up type personalities.
Basically, you can expect a cool person to hang out with!
Can I choose my own guide?
Of course! Just let us know who you would like to lead your trip. If they are available, they will be assigned to you.
How do I contact my guide?
Your guide will typically initiate contact with you.
If you have not yet heard from your guide, send us a message and we'll make sure they reach out.
Do I need to tip my guide?
Tips are customary in the industry.
An 18-20% tip signals a job well done.
Cancellations and Weather
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for a full refund up until three days before your trip. No refunds are provided for cancellations within three days of your trip.
Our guides are paid based on trips so last minute cancellations effect their financial security. We still pay our guides in the case of last second cancellations so we must in turn enforce this three day rule.
What if the weather is bad?
If we cancel before the start of your trip, you will be entitled to either a full refund or reschedule.
If we cancel during before the majority of your trip is completed, you are entitled to a credit equal to the value of your trip for future use.
We do our best to cancel ahead of time in the case of incoming weather. Your guide will contact you directly if we decide to cancel.
Is bad weather common in Colorado?
No. The weather is mild along the Colorado Front Range.
During summer, we advise for morning start times to avoid the afternoon heat and possibility of afternoon thunderstorms.
Do you operate during winter?
Yes. We operate all year. If the weather is not conducive to safe operation, you will always be entitled to a full refund.
We experience a lot of nice weather days near Denver throughout the winter season.
Can I reschedule?
You can reschedule up until three days before your scheduled trip. There is no penalty for rescheduling outside the final three days.
Trip Logistics
Where do I meet my guide?
You will meet your guide at the parking lot for the climbing area. We use various locations around Denver.
Do you offer transportation?
No. You are required to organize your own transportation. Uber or personal vehicles will always reach our locations.
Expect a 30 minute drive from Denver.
What should I wear & bring?
The exact requirements are based n the trip and the weather. Your guide will provide you specific details.
- For all trips, check the weather and wear appropriate outdoor/athletic attire for the forecast.
- Bring a rain jacket just in case!
- Always wear closed toed shoes! (hiking boots, approach shoes, sneakers)
- Bring at least 24 oz of water per climber.
- A small backpack is always useful for carrying personal items.
Should I tip my guide?
As with all customer service jobs, tipping you guide 15% - 20% is customary for a great job done.
Do you provide food & water?
No, You are responsible for bringing all food and water for your trip.
Is there a bathroom?
This varies depending on the location. But come prepared to wait for the trip duration or have supplies for the wilderness loo.
Do I need to reserve in advance?
All of our trips are by reservation. Some sessions will book out weeks in advance while others can be joined last minute. We recommend booking as far in the future as possible. Remember we have a flexible cancellation policy.
