Planning Your First Outdoor Climbing Trip
There comes a moment in many a gym climber's journey when the mix of chalk in the air and camaraderie with your fellow climbing gym goers lead to plans of road trips with your buds and thoughts of pulling on real rock. If you daydream about real rock under your fingers and the sun on your back, you're probably ready to step outside. But when surrounded by endless guidebooks, climbing apps, and advice from every beta-sprayer at your gym, the big question becomes: how do you plan your first outdoor climbing trip?
It can feel like a lot. But don't sweat it. The first step into outdoor climbing is less about proving yourself and more about discovering what makes you come alive on stone. This guide is here to help you make that leap in a way that feels intentional, informed, and, most of all, fun.
Gym Strength vs. Crag Reality
Let’s start with a little reality check. Crushing V5 indoors doesn’t mean you’re ready to flash a V5 outside. It might happen, but outdoor climbing introduces new variables: texture, conditions, fear of falling on unfamiliar landings, and the ever-humbling art of reading natural rock.
So, humility is your best tool when picking your first project. Dial it back a grade or two (even four) from your gym max. Remember, this isn’t about ego. It’s about building experience, finding your flow, and learning the rhythm of rock. Don't get discouraged if you are crushing v5 in the gym only to be spit off of v1 problems outdoors—it happens to the best of us!
Know Your Style (and Be Willing to Break It)
Some climbers love the explosive nature of a dynamic move; others are methodical technicians, savoring balance and footwork. Maybe you’re a crimp fiend, or maybe slopers make you smile. Knowing what you enjoy can help you pick an outdoor climbing area that inspires you.
But outdoor climbing is also an invitation to expand your style. That short roof problem with big moves might intimidate you, but it could also teach you more than another vertical jug ladder. Pick something that excites you, yes—but also something that challenges you.
Do Your Homework
Choosing a good first project starts with research. There are a few ways to go about it:
Guidebooks: Old-school, tactile, and often loaded with local flavor. Look for routes with high star ratings and beginner-friendly descriptions.
Apps like Mountain Project: Great for reading recent beta such as how many quickdraws you need for a route, conditions, and notes on the approach.
YouTube and Vimeo: Watching others on the climb can give you a feel for movement and difficulty.
Word of Mouth: Don’t underestimate the wisdom of your local climbing community. Ask people at your gym what they recommend.
Some keywords to look for while planning your first project: "soft for the grade," "good landings," "well-protected," "classic," "fun movement."
Read the Rock (and the Room)
Once you’re on site, don’t rush straight into the climb. Spend some time looking at the line. Can you identify holds? Is there an obvious crux? Are there good places to rest? If it’s a boulder, how’s the landing? Do you need more pads? If it’s a sport or trad climb, is the protection solid and frequent enough for your comfort level?
Pay attention to the vibe, too. Is the crag busy? Are you comfortable with others around? Outdoor climbing is communal, but your first experience should be positive and low-pressure.
Set Your Expectations (and Your Intentions)
Your first outdoor climbing trip/project isn’t about sending. It’s about learning.
Try this mindset: "Today, I’m going to figure out how to move on this route. If I send, cool. If not, I’ll walk away with new skills and a new goal."
The term "project" implies work. It might take multiple sessions. That’s okay. That’s part of the joy. You’re not just bagging climbs—you’re building a relationship with the rock.
Bring the Right Crew
Your partners matter. Bring folks who are encouraging, patient, and psyched to be outside. Avoid climbing with people who bring pressure, comparison, or unsafe habits. The right crew makes all the difference.
Pro tip: If you’re going with more experienced climbers, let them know it’s your first time climbing outside. Most people love sharing beta, supporting, and spotting you (with some pad rearranging magic).
Respect the Rock and the Culture
You might be focused on the climb, but being a good steward matters just as much:
Pack out trash and food.
Stick to established trails.
Don’t blast music.
Brush your ticks and chalk off the holds.
Don’t chip or modify the rock—ever!
Don't climb on sandstone after it rains. You have to wait for it to dry COMPLETELY. Yes, even if it is the last day of your trip and you want one more burn on that route you have been working on.
Be aware of local ethics. In some areas, certain types of climbing (like top-roping or tick marks) are frowned upon. Learn the vibe before you climb.
Dealing With Failure (a.k.a. Normal Climbing)
You might not send. You might flail, feel awkward, or get shut down by something easier than what you do in the gym. That’s not failure. That’s climbing.
Take notes. Reflect. Laugh about it over post-climb burritos. You’re in this for the long game. And every attempt builds your toolbox for future climbs.
Celebrate Small Wins
Did you find the crag without getting lost? Win.
Did you try something out of your comfort zone? Win.
Did you fall safely and get back on? Win.
Did you notice something new about your climbing? Win.
Sending is sweet, but it’s just one kind of success.
Keep It Playful
Outdoor climbing can bring out your inner kid again. You’re scrambling over rocks, exploring nature, and solving movement puzzles. Let it be messy. Let it be fun. This is a lifelong sport; you don’t need to rush to be good at it. Just keep showing up with curiosity.
TL;DR: First Outdoor Project Checklist
Your first outdoor project isn’t about the send but the story. So lace up your shoes, pack your bag, and get out there. The real rock is calling.
And trust us: it’s even better than you imagined.