Rock Climbing (begginers version) in Aspen

Need a little adrenaline rush? Or a full body workout without having to think about the fact that you're working out? I found rock climbing to be the perfect way to get in shape and have a blast at the same time with very little equipment costs. I started by finding a friend to take me, and borrowed shoes and a harness. But you can also climb through an experience company such as Aspen Expeditions.

We are lucky to have Independence pass that boasts some really incredible rock climbing walls, even for those of us who are just starting out. Here are my favorite spots so far.

5 Spots for Beginner Rock Climbers

• Power line: Right after mile marker 52 this site is perfect for beginners. rating no larger than 5.8, it has something that everyone can get up and start climbing on (yes even if you have no upper body strength). If you are not comfortable lead climbing you can hike around and top-rope here with no problems.
• Pooh Corner: Another nice easy route, but there are some slightly harder routes here, check it out when you are ready to take your climbing to the next level (mostly 5.8 but goes up to 5.9). Also up the pass a little ways past mile marker 52.
• Lower Bulldog: I have done a few climbs here, "The Other White Meat" is the easiest that gives you the chance to climb out around an Arete (the corner out-jutting of the rocks) and great view from the top. Be careful on the approach with this one, it is short but it is very steep. There is also a couple of walls above lower bulldog with some harder climbs if you are ready to advance.
• Junior Olympic: The hike to this wall is pretty steep, and not exactly short, but totally worth it. The view is great even before you start climbing! This wall goes 5.8, 5.9 (shown below), 5.10 i believe so there is really only one easy climb. The 5.8 here would be a great climb for someone to do their first lead...
• Gold Butte: I love this wall because I can hop up there before work and still have cell service and be 5 mins from town. All of the other spots I wrote about before are up Independence Pass, but Golden Butte is just a little ways down Cemetery Lane (right across from Sunnyside Trailhead). It is fairly new to the public and I don't think there is a guidebook yet, although you can see it on the Ute Mountaineers website here. This would be good place to bring a helmet, the rocks are pretty crumbly. Lots of tougher climbs, go with someone experienced.

Junior Olympic. 5.9

There are so many spots in and around Aspen, and I highly suggest if this is something you want to get into to get the independence pass climbing book (either at the Ute, Explore bookstore, or here) and feel free to ask me anything!

Need Gear, for a while Outdoorplay.com is having come climbing sales, check it out here: