How To Get Started?

I've been in the outdoors all my life, but I've never been much of a climber (I also want to get into kayaking too if anyone cares...haha). So, my question is, whats the best way to get started climbing? Go to LR to the climbing gym, just do it, something else?

You're starting out doing the right thing willky: asking around. My advice is to get together with some climbers and meet them for a climb. As are most outdoor groups, the climbers are always open to bringing others into their sport.

The thing NOT to do is go out and buy a bunch of gear before you go. Meet some folks, let them help you determine what to get and where to go, etc..

And the LR climbing gym is a great place to start.

Good luck!

Willky,
I have been climbing for years and am always eager to teach newbies the beauty of the sport. I have an extra harness and all the gear one needs. I often go to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch. It is much better to learn on real rock than in a gym. If you want to tag along I can plan a trip and teach you the ropes, get it, ROPES, ha ha. Let me know man., it is a great rewarding sport and builds an immense amount of strength that helps with any activity.

Snow,
I would be very up to planning a trip. I can only go on the weekends because of my job (boooo!), but when ever we can work it out I think that would be awesome. I'll PM you some time soon and see what we can work out. Thanks!

Hey willky,
Thinking about heading to HCR this Sunday for some climbing if the weather is right. If you are interested let me know.

That might work out great. How far is it to HCR (and what does that stand for haha?), so I can see if I've got time this weekend.

HCR is Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, It is near the western part of the buffalo river. You would take 65 north and make your way to jasper. You can find the exact directions on there website. Google Horseshoe Canyon Ranch.

Hey Willky,

The weather looks great for climbing this weekend. Not to hot and slightly cloudy which is good for climbing. The rocks can really heat you up with the sun blasting on them all day. I figure it is about the same distance away from you as it is for me. It takes me an hour and a half to get there. Let me know. If you can't make it I am going to go to Hawksbill and take some photos.

Snow,
Unfortunantely I forgot that I told my dad that I would help get our boat ready for fishing this weekend. I don't think I will have enough time to get the boat taken care of and have enough time to make the trip long enough to be worthwhile. Thanks for the invite, but soundsl like I'll have to take a rain check. I would love to do it soon though! I'll just have to plan a little better though.

Thats alright Willky

I will be climbing plenty this year. I am kind of glad so I can go check out Hawksbill and photo some waterfalls in that area. Just let me know when you have some time and I will arrange it. Sundays are best for me.

Awesome! Thanks a lot snow!

Here's my HCR site on SummitPost: http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/261708/Horseshoe-Canyon-Ranch.html

Also, if anyone needs a PDF guidebook of HCR , email me and I'll send you one. jackieandalan1@yahoo.com However, I also highly recommend the paperback guidebook available at the HCR trading post or get it at www.bostonmountainpress.com.

Thats awesome. I have to get up there within the next few months.

Those are some great pics. Really capture the beauty of the place. Can't wait to get back there this year.