Rock Climbing

We’re fortunate as passionate climbers that Telluride is surrounded by numerous types of rock and styles of climbing. From single-pitch top-rope outings to committing, exposed multi-pitch traditional routes that ascend 1,000 feet, the San Juan Mountains feature the best in guided rock climbing. We offer full- or half-day rock climbing trips, depending on your goals, objectives, and group size. Our highly-trained guides can accommodate all levels of experience.

We also offer custom courses for climbers looking to learn the basics or progress their personal skillset, such as progressing to lead climbing, high-alpine routes, or placing trad protection. Route grades run from moderate to 5.13 and harder.

To make a reservation, please click below.

Half-Day - Register Full-Day - Register Family Rock Climbing - Register

Telluride Area Rock Climbing Venues

  • Pipeline Wall (sport climbing)
  • Mill Creek (sport climbing)
  • Ophir Wall (sport and trad climbing, long multi-pitch)
  • Ophir Needles (alpine rock climbing, long multi-pitch)
  • The Dark Side (sport and trad climbing)
  • Waterfall Canyon (high alpine sport climbing)
  • Sandstone (trad and crack climbing in the West End)
  • And much, much more!

If you have questions, please contact the Mountain Trip office at [email protected] or (970) 369-1153.

The following is a list of guide-recommended gear for Telluride rock climbing with Mountain Trip. As part of the trip cost, we will happily provide all technical equipment, including helmets, harnesses, and rock climbing shoes. Climbers are also welcome to bring and use their own gear upon inspection by one of our guides.

Whatever gear you choose, please make sure it fits well so you fully enjoy your experience in the mountains.

In addition to what we provide and have available to rent, there is also a good selection of gear available in Telluride and Ouray. If you have any specific questions about what you might need, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Mountain Trip office.

Print Equipment

Footwear

GearDescriptionGuide's Pick
Trekking Shoes or Boots for ColoradoComfortable, well broken in trekking shoes or lightweight boots will work for approaching climbs, the Telluride Via Ferrata or climbing 14ers. Good traction is important for all of the above. Contact our office for more detailed advice!

Torso Layers

GearDescriptionGuide's Pick
Light Fleece HoodyLight/mid weight fleece (or wool) top with a hood. You will wear this over your light weight base layer.
Rain Jacket for ColoradoA rain shell can be your most important layer as we often experience afternoon showers during the summer months in Colorado. It should be packable and in good working order meaning that, in addition to being waterproof, it still has a functional water repellent finish and beads water on the surface of the fabric.

Leg Layers

GearDescriptionGuide's Pick
Lightweight Softshell Trekking PantsA lightweight synthetic softshell pant is a great layer that you'll wear every day on a trek or for an ascent of a peak. These are water resistant, breathable and comfortable in a wide range of weather and temps.

Head and Hands

GearDescriptionGuide's Pick
SunglassesSunglasses are essential in the mountains. Choose a pair that are comfortable and provide 100% UVA and UVB protection.

Packs and Duffels

GearDescriptionGuide's Pick
Climbing PackSuitable climbing packs will be 30 - 45 liters in volume and have the capability of easily attaching crampons, and ice axes if used for a day of ice climbing or if needed for a peak ascent. For a day climbs, any pack in the 30 - 45 liter range will work, but we recommend that you consider the weight of the pack carefully. Overnight, alpine routes require larger (45L) packs that also let you strap your sleeping pad to the outside.

Climbing Gear

GearDescriptionGuide's Pick
Climbing HelmetMake certain it fits over your warmest hat and under the hood of your shell. The super-lightweight foam helmets are great, but can get crushed in your duffel bags during travel, so protect your lid!
Climbing HarnessAn aspect of technical climbing is hanging in a harness. Having a padded, comfortable harness will make you much happier than will a thinly padded, alpine harness, and, should you find yourself at a semi hanging belay, your legs are less likely to fall asleep from lack of circulation.
Carabiners2 locking carabiners and 2 non-locking carabiners. (4 total)
Belay/Rappel DeviceA plaquette style belay/rappel device.

Other

GearDescriptionGuide's Pick
Two (2) One-Liter Water BottlesYou will need two, 1-liter plastic water bottles. Please bring wide-mouth bottles, such as those from Nalgene, as these are much easier to fill than bottles with small openings.
CameraMost climbers these days use their phone as a camera, but if you plan to bring a dedicated camera, consider a small, light weight point and shoot camera. If you are a photography buff and really want to bring a DSLR, plan for that extra weight with your training!
Lip BalmBring a tube of quality lip balm with sun protection (SPF).
SunscreenThe sun can be intense in Colorado, so please apply high SPF sunscreen prior to your trip and bring a small tube along to reapply during the day.
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