Intro to Outdoor Rock Climbing
A free, beginner-friendly introduction to outdoor climbing. See and experience how outdoor climbing works, and decide the next steps in your climbing journey.
- How to fit personal climbing gear
- Essential figure 8 climbing knot
- Develop the belaying basics
- Climb on a top-rope system
- Beginner-friendly climbing terrain
- Short approach and easy access
- Clear, hands-on instruction
- A relaxed and social atmosphere
Try outdoor climbing with guidance, easy access, and without having to buy more expensive equipment.
Accessible, Approachable, and at your pace.
The goal is for anyone to have a chance to experience outdoor rock climbing. You will learn by doing, ask questions, and climb at a pace that feels manageable.
Get Oriented
Meet the group, get fitted for gear, and learn how the climbing area and session are organized.
Learn the Basics
Practice essential knots, belaying concepts, and the pieces that make up a top-rope system.
Climb Real Rock
Try beginner-friendly routes, get movement tips, and leave with a clear idea of your next step.
You do not need to already feel like a climber.
This session is built for people who are curious, a little unsure, or ready to take their first step from the gym to real rock.
This is a strong fit if…
- You have never climbed outside
- You climb in a gym but do not understand outdoor systems
- You want a low-pressure introduction before paying for a full session
- You want to meet other new climbers
- You are nervous, curious, or simply not sure where to begin
You may want something else if…
- You already climb outside independently
- You manage anchors and rope systems confidently
- You want advanced lead, trad, or multipitch instruction
- You are looking for a full day of climbing rather than an introduction
More clarity. Less mystery.
The goal is not to turn you into an independent outdoor climber in two hours. It is to help you understand the environment, try the basics, and know what your next step should be.
Context
You will understand the pieces of an outdoor climbing day and how they fit together.
Confidence
You will know what the gear does, how belaying works, and what questions to ask next.
Direction
You will leave knowing whether you want more guided climbing, a weekly club, or a skills-focused session.
Everything you need to know.
Flagstaff Mountain
Crown Rock Trailhead. Expect a short walk from the parking area to the climbing site.
Comfortable layers
Wear clothes you can move in and closed-toe shoes for the approach. weather changes quickly, so bring layers.
Water and curiosity
Bring water, seasonal layers, and a small snack. All climbing gear and personal climbing gear is available for the session.
Outdoor conditions matter
If rain, lightning, or wet rock makes the session unsafe, Rope Wranglers will send an update and next-step options.
Matt King
Climber · Coach · Outdoor GuideMatt has spent about two decades climbing and more than ten years coaching, routesetting, and guiding climbers in Boulder. The Free Intro was built to make outdoor climbing feel understandable, welcoming, and possible.
You do not need to show up fearless or prepared. Bring curiosity, comfortable clothes, and a willingness to try.
Welcoming, fun, and stunning views.
“Very friendly, informative, and made a first-time climbing session quite welcoming.”
“I learned how to belay today. It was so cool. I was able to make it to the top on my climb.”
“Very approachable and educational.”
Everything you need before you arrive.
You may be looking for a weekly Social Club instead.
Choose Top Rope if you want outdoor mileage with ropes, Sport if you are working on lead systems, or Bouldering if you want movement and projects without ropes.
Choose an upcoming Free Intro session.
Select an available Wednesday below and complete the short registration form.
Registered participants receive final meeting details and any weather updates before the session.