Sport Climbing in Rifle Mountain Park
Nestled amidst the stunning peaks of the Rocky Mountains, Rifle, Colorado, is a mecca for sport climbers seeking some of the world’s most challenging rock climbs. In addition to these incredibly challenging steep rock climbing routes, Rifle is also home to lots of awesome moderate routes, with a network of over 500 established routes, it is the perfect spot for climbers of all ability levels wanting to break through climbing plateaus. Skyward Mountaineering specializes in coaching and helping unlock your full rock climbing potential and hone your movement skills. Whether you’re an an advanced rock climber looking for a reliable partner to support your goals and provide expert coaching or a curious beginner eager to experience the thrill of rock climbing, we offer guided rock climbing in Rifle designed to match your unique aspirations.
World Class Sport Climbing
Despite the popularity of Rifle as a world class rock climbing destination, Skyward Mountaineering is one of the few mountain guide services to offer guided rock climbing in the canyon. The routes are typically defined by complex climbing in steep terrain, demanding both power and endurance. Rifle Mountain Park hosts the largest quantity of 5.13 routes in North America! Rifle has earned its premier status for the quality and quantity of these challenging routes, though there are certainly plenty of moderate routes too. Our guides will introduce you to the standard classic routes as well as modern hidden gems.
Rock climbing in Rifle Mountain Park is a world-class limestone destination, with multiple crags spread throughout the canyon. Walls vary in steepness from overhanging caves to technical vertical faces and despite it’s challenging reputation there has been significant new route development of moderate grades (and it turns out these routes are really high quality too!). Rock climbing in Rifle is 100% Type 1 Fun and Skyward Mountaineering guides enjoy having this incredible destination in our backyard on Colorado’s Western Slope. Our guides are talented rock climbers who provide expert coaching and support for climbers to surpass a plateau. Having trouble breaking into 5.12? Want to learn to lead outdoor sport climbing? Rifle is the perfect rock climbing destination for experienced sport climbers looking to progress in their climbing movement and newer climbers looking to be introduced to outdoor rock climbing.
Rifle Mountain Park has the best rock climbing conditions from spring through the fall. Nestled into a canyon running north to south it’s possible to chase sun or shade depending on current temperatures.
For all abilities and fitness levels, from novice to expert. No prerequisites required.
Grand Junction or Rifle Regional Airport are convenient airport locations for this destination if arriving by air. A personal or rental car is necessary to travel to/from Rifle Mountain Park.
Grand Junction is based 1.5 hours away and the town of Rifle is 15 minutes away. There are multiple hotels in both areas. There is paid camping in Rifle Mountain Park though it can be busy during peak climbing season.
Climbers are responsible for providing their own personal clothing and equipment. Skyward Mountaineering may assist in supplying technical equipment with advanced notice. See recommended gear list below:
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Underwear: Should be comfortable, synthetic fibers wick moisture away from the body
Hiking socks: Lightweight warmth/cushion
Sun hat
Lightweight t-shirt: Synthetic fibers will wick sweat away to keep you cooler and more comfortable during hot temps
Midweight fleece jacket: An integrated hood adds warmth and weather protection
Midweight insulated jacket: Down is lighter and more compressible
Climbing pants or leggings: Lightweight and stretchy
Shorts: Optional, for warmer temps
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Climbing backpack: Approximately 35+ liters
Approach shoes: Sticky rubber outsole for security while scrambling on the approach and/or descent can be helpful, though hiking sneakers are fine as well
Rock climbing shoes: Comfortable for all day wear. A slightly downturned toe is more precise for face climbing
Chalk bag w/ chalk
Belay gloves: Full fingered recommended
Climbing helmet: Must be UIAA certified
Harness: Must have a belay loop and at least two gear loops
Tubular belay device with round bar stock locking carabiner
Assisted braking device: Your guide can provide a lightweight device to belay the leader, but if have a preferred device such as a GriGri you may bring that
48 inch (120cm) sewn nylon sling. A Personal Anchor System (PAS) can be used instead
1-2 Locking carabiners: Lightweight, screwgate is easier to operate than a triple-action carabiner
1-2 Non locking carabiners
Athletic tape: avoid generic pharmacy brands as they are not as durable or sticky
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Sunglasses: Dimmable recommended, CAT 3 lenses w/ athletic fit
Small tube of sunscreen and SPF chap stick
First aid kit: Small, should include any personal medications
Fully charged phone
Headlamp with fully charged batteries
2 liters of water: A soft water bottle is more comfortable in a pack but care needs to be taken to not puncture it
High energy lunch and snacks: A healthy mix of fats, sugar, and protein for a full day of the on-the-go (leftover pizza or sandwiches are a great midday pick-me-up)
Includes:
1 day of guided sport climbing in Rifle
Group climbing equipment (ropes, rock protection and anchor material)
Does Not Include:
Additional expenses associated with a change in the itinerary
Transportation
Lodging
Meals
Guide gratuity