Moab, Utah Rock Climbing
A desert oasis set amongst towering red cliffs, this town serves as a basecamp for adventure. Surrounded by world class rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, rafting, and exploring both natural and cultural history, Moab is the complete package for an adventurer. It’s no wonder that climber’s make Moab and the surrounding backcountry their choice for an annual pilgrimage, you too should enjoy the incredible rock climbing this dramatic desert landscape has to offer.
SEASONS
Winter: Daytime temps during the winter can be great, but nights are still cold and storms are possible. Ideal for last minute trips to ensure good weather conditions
Spring: The desert is coming alive and temps are comfortable, chase the shade or sun depending on current conditions
Autumn: Temps are comfortable, chase the shade or sun depending on current conditions
PRICE
1 climber: $625/day
2 climbers: $400/person/day
3 climbers: $350/person/day
4 climbers: $300/person/day
* Multipitch objectives can only be guided at a 2:1 climber to guide ratio, so an additional guide would be required for larger groups.
LODGING
Moab has multiple hotel and Airbnb options in addition to several Bureau of Land Management campgrounds for only $20/night on a first-come-first-served basis.
TRAVEL
Grand Junction Regional Airport is the closest reliable airport, a 1 hour 45 minute drive from Moab. Another option for more affordable flights is Salt Lake City International Airport, a 4 hour drive from Moab.
CLOTHING
Underwear: Should be comfortable, synthetic fibers wick moisture away from the body
Hiking socks: Mini crew size and lightweight to midweight warmth/cushion
Sun hat
Lightweight t-shirt: Merino wool or synthetic fibers will wick sweat away and keep you cooler and more comfortable during hot temps
Midweight fleece jacket: An integrated hood adds warmth and weather protection
Wind jacket: Must have an integrated hood, stretch fabric is often more durable
Lightweight insulated jacket: Down is lighter and more compressible
Climbing pants: Lightweight and stretchy
Shorts: Optional, for warmer temps
CLIMBING GEAR
Climbing backpack: Approximately 30+ liters
On-route pack: Approximately 15 liters, optional for multipitch routes. It is also possible to carry a 25-ish liter pack to the base of the route and then also use it on the route instead of the two pack system
Approach shoes: Must have sticky rubber outsole for security while scrambling on the approach and/or descent
Rock climbing shoes: Comfortable for all day wear. Flat lasted shoes with wider toe box are more comfortable and slippers (if not, flat laces are preferred over round laces) are more durable for toe jamming
Chalk bag w/ chalk
Belay gloves: Full fingered recommended
Crack gloves: Optional, manufactured tape gloves are more comfortable and provide great base coverage for the best protection while hand jamming
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
48 inch (120cm) sewn nylon sling. A Personal Anchor System (PAS) can be used instead, though is less versatile
Prusik loop: Optional, 3ft of 6mm accessory cord tied into a prusik loop or a manufactured rappel backup
20 feet 6mm accessory cord: Optional, can be helpful for anchor building
2-3 Locking carabiners Lightweight, screwgate is easier to operate than a triple-action carabiner
1-2 Non locking carabiners
Knife: Optional, should clip to carabiner in locked position
Athletic tape: avoid generic pharmacy brands as they are not as durable or sticky
ACCESSORIES
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)