Climbing: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
K2 Fast Facts
Facts about K2, the second highest mountain in the world.
Facts about K2, the second highest mountain in the world.
Kilimanjaro
Learn here about Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa and one of the most popular high mountains in the world for climbers.
Learn here about Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa and one of the most popular high mountains in the world for climbers.
Mount Everest
Facts about Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world.
Facts about Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world.
10 Rock Shoe Buying Tips
10 Rock Climbing Shoe Buying Tips -- Buying a New Pair of Rock Climbing Shoes
10 Rock Climbing Shoe Buying Tips -- Buying a New Pair of Rock Climbing Shoes
The Best Tie-In Knot
How to tie a Figure-8 Follow-Through knot, the best knot for tying into a climbing rope.
How to tie a Figure-8 Follow-Through knot, the best knot for tying into a climbing rope.
6 Important Climbing Knots
You need to know these 6 knots to go rock climbing safely--Figure-8 Follow-Through Knot, Clove Hitch, Figure-8-on-a-Bight, Double Fisherman's Knot, Prusik Knot, and Münter Hitch.
You need to know these 6 knots to go rock climbing safely--Figure-8 Follow-Through Knot, Clove Hitch, Figure-8-on-a-Bight, Double Fisherman's Knot, Prusik Knot, and Münter Hitch.
4 Rappel Knots
If you're out climbing and need to rappel off the cliff, here are the four best knots to tie your climbing ropes together.
If you're out climbing and need to rappel off the cliff, here are the four best knots to tie your climbing ropes together.
Matterhorn
Learn all about about the Matterhorn and climbing the Matterhorn, Switzerland's most famous mountain.
Learn all about about the Matterhorn and climbing the Matterhorn, Switzerland's most famous mountain.
LearntoBelay
Belaying is one of the most important climbing skills. Here you learn the basics about belaying and using belay devices.
Belaying is one of the most important climbing skills. Here you learn the basics about belaying and using belay devices.
8,000-Meter Peaks List
The world’s 14 highest mountains are an exclusive club of peaks whose summits tower more than 8,000 meters (26,247 feet) above sea level.The Eight Thousanders all lie in the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges in central Asia.
The world’s 14 highest mountains are an exclusive club of peaks whose summits tower more than 8,000 meters (26,247 feet) above sea level.The Eight Thousanders all lie in the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges in central Asia.
Basic Rappel Equipment
Here is a list of all the essential equipment that you need to rappel off your newest climb, including ropes, rappel device, anchors, slings, harness, gloves, and daisy chain.
Here is a list of all the essential equipment that you need to rappel off your newest climb, including ropes, rappel device, anchors, slings, harness, gloves, and daisy chain.
Climbing Knots
Learn all about knots for climbing, including the best knots for climbing; knots to tie rappel ropes together; friction knots; knot strength; and how to tie and untie knots.
Learn all about knots for climbing, including the best knots for climbing; knots to tie rappel ropes together; friction knots; knot strength; and how to tie and untie knots.
Top-Rope Climbing
Top-rope climbing is the best way for beginners to get out on the rocks. Check here for the skills you need to know and what equipment you need to buy.
Top-rope climbing is the best way for beginners to get out on the rocks. Check here for the skills you need to know and what equipment you need to buy.
4 Friction Knots
Every climber needs to know these 4 friction knots--Prusik knot, Klemheist knot, Bachmann knot, and Autoblock knot--to climb a rope in an emergency or to escape a belay during a self-rescue.
Every climber needs to know these 4 friction knots--Prusik knot, Klemheist knot, Bachmann knot, and Autoblock knot--to climb a rope in an emergency or to escape a belay during a self-rescue.
Belay & Rappel Devices
Belay and rappel devices are one of the most important pieces of climbing equipment that you will need to purchase and learn to use so you can safely belay and rappel at the cliff.
Belay and rappel devices are one of the most important pieces of climbing equipment that you will need to purchase and learn to use so you can safely belay and rappel at the cliff.
Figure-8 Fisherman's Knot
Definition of Double Figure-8 Fisherman’s Knot, climbing words for the best knot to tie 2 ropes together.
Definition of Double Figure-8 Fisherman’s Knot, climbing words for the best knot to tie 2 ropes together.
Top-Rope Climbing Gear
Here's eveything that you need to get out top-rope climbing on your local cliff, including a climbing rope, carabiners, slings, and personal gear.
Here's eveything that you need to get out top-rope climbing on your local cliff, including a climbing rope, carabiners, slings, and personal gear.
Mountain Climbing
Learn here about mountaineering or the sport of climbing mountains, one of the finest outdoor opportunities for the lover of high places. Mountain climbing is about challenge and perseverance, about putting hands and feet onto rocks and ice and snow and finally reaching a summit.
Learn here about mountaineering or the sport of climbing mountains, one of the finest outdoor opportunities for the lover of high places. Mountain climbing is about challenge and perseverance, about putting hands and feet onto rocks and ice and snow and finally reaching a summit.
3 Skills for a TR Anchor
The 3 basic skills you need to know to build a safe anchor system for top-rope rock climbing.
The 3 basic skills you need to know to build a safe anchor system for top-rope rock climbing.
All About Rappelling
Rappelling is a climbing technique that allows you to do a controlled descent down a rope from a cliff or mountain. Learn here all about rappelling and the essential climbing skills you need to learn to safely rappel.
Rappelling is a climbing technique that allows you to do a controlled descent down a rope from a cliff or mountain. Learn here all about rappelling and the essential climbing skills you need to learn to safely rappel.
Figure-8-on-a-Bight Knot
Definition of Figure-8-on-a-Bight Knot, climbing words for the a secure knot used to tie a climber to an anchor.
Definition of Figure-8-on-a-Bight Knot, climbing words for the a secure knot used to tie a climber to an anchor.
Mont Blanc
Learn all about Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in western Europe and the Alps, and a popular mountain for climbers.
Learn all about Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in western Europe and the Alps, and a popular mountain for climbers.
What Shoes to Wear
You're just learning how to climb and want to buy a new pair of rock climbing shoes. Learn the essentials here about what kind of shoes to buy and how they should fit your foot.
You're just learning how to climb and want to buy a new pair of rock climbing shoes. Learn the essentials here about what kind of shoes to buy and how they should fit your foot.
Using a Daisy Chain
A daisy chain, used in rock climbing, is a length of webbing with variable-length sewn links which can be clipped into anchors with a carabiner. Learn here about daisy chains and how to properly use them.
A daisy chain, used in rock climbing, is a length of webbing with variable-length sewn links which can be clipped into anchors with a carabiner. Learn here about daisy chains and how to properly use them.
How to Tie an Autoblock Knot
Learn how to tie and use an autoblock knot, an essential safety knot used in climbing and rappelling.
Learn how to tie and use an autoblock knot, an essential safety knot used in climbing and rappelling.
The Seven Summits
The Seven Summits, a well-known mountaineering objective, are the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. Learn here about these seven mountains and climbing them.
The Seven Summits, a well-known mountaineering objective, are the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. Learn here about these seven mountains and climbing them.
Mount Kosciuszko
Fast facts about Mount Kosciuszko, the highest mountain in Australia and one of the Seven Summits.
Fast facts about Mount Kosciuszko, the highest mountain in Australia and one of the Seven Summits.
Prusik Knot Definition
Definition of Prusik Knot, climbing words for a friction knot used to ascend a fixed rope.
Definition of Prusik Knot, climbing words for a friction knot used to ascend a fixed rope.
Devils Tower Facts
Devils Tower, a spectacular natural landmark in Wyoming, is one of the premier climbing destinations in the United States. Find out here all about Devils Tower.
Devils Tower, a spectacular natural landmark in Wyoming, is one of the premier climbing destinations in the United States. Find out here all about Devils Tower.
How to Tie a Prusik Knot
Learn how to tie a Prusik knot, an important knot used in climbing for ascending ropes and in emergency situations.
Learn how to tie a Prusik knot, an important knot used in climbing for ascending ropes and in emergency situations.
Mount Elbert
Facts About Mount Elbert, the Highest Mountain in Colorado
Facts About Mount Elbert, the Highest Mountain in Colorado
Figure-8 Follow-Through Knot
Definition of Figure-8 Follow-Through Knot, climbing words for the best and most used knot for tying a rope into a harness.
Definition of Figure-8 Follow-Through Knot, climbing words for the best and most used knot for tying a rope into a harness.
Orizaba Fast Facts
Learn here about Pico de Orizaba, the highest mountain in Mexico and the highest volcano in North America.
Learn here about Pico de Orizaba, the highest mountain in Mexico and the highest volcano in North America.
10 Climbing Safety Tips
Climbing is dangerous. Learn the basic rules of climbing safety to stay safe on the rocks and avoid accidents. Follow these ten tips for climbing safety for a safe climbing adventure.
Climbing is dangerous. Learn the basic rules of climbing safety to stay safe on the rocks and avoid accidents. Follow these ten tips for climbing safety for a safe climbing adventure.
Josh Scares the Horses
Photograph of Josh Smith climbing You're Scaring the Horses on the Early Wall at Diablo Canyon near Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Photograph of Josh Smith climbing You're Scaring the Horses on the Early Wall at Diablo Canyon near Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Clove Hitch
Definition of Clove Hitch, climbing words for a knot to tie a rope to a carabiner, anchor, or tree.
Definition of Clove Hitch, climbing words for a knot to tie a rope to a carabiner, anchor, or tree.
Mount Whitney
Check out lots of interesting facts and statistics about Mount Whitney, the highest mountain in California and the highest in the lower 48 states.
Check out lots of interesting facts and statistics about Mount Whitney, the highest mountain in California and the highest in the lower 48 states.
Kangchenjunga Facts
Facts about Kangchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.
Facts about Kangchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.
Double Overhand Knot
Definition of Double Overhand Knot, climbing words for a knot used to tie 2 ropes together for rappelling.
Definition of Double Overhand Knot, climbing words for a knot used to tie 2 ropes together for rappelling.
Autoblock Knot Definition
The autoblock knot is an important climbing knot used as a safety back-up on a rappel rope.
The autoblock knot is an important climbing knot used as a safety back-up on a rappel rope.
Rock Shoe Repairs
You've been climbing all summer and your rock shoes need new soles. What do you need done to the shoes and who's going to do the job? Read this guide to rock shoe resoles, repairs, and cobblers to make the right choices.
You've been climbing all summer and your rock shoes need new soles. What do you need done to the shoes and who's going to do the job? Read this guide to rock shoe resoles, repairs, and cobblers to make the right choices.
Types of Harnesses
Harnesses are specifically made for different types of climbing, including sport, gym, and competition climbing, general all-around climbing, big wall climbing, alpine and ice climbing, caving, and kids climbing. Specific harnesses are made for women and children.
Harnesses are specifically made for different types of climbing, including sport, gym, and competition climbing, general all-around climbing, big wall climbing, alpine and ice climbing, caving, and kids climbing. Specific harnesses are made for women and children.
6 Rappelling Skills
Rappelling is skill-based. Learn here what the six essential climbing skills you need to know to rappel safely and efficiently.
Rappelling is skill-based. Learn here what the six essential climbing skills you need to know to rappel safely and efficiently.
Lhotse Fast Facts
Facts about Lhotse, the fourth highest mountain in the world.
Facts about Lhotse, the fourth highest mountain in the world.
Jon Krakauer Quote
Here's a quote from writer and climber Jon Krakauer, author of Into Thin Air, about his attempt to solo climb a fearsome wall on Devil Thumb in Alaska.
Here's a quote from writer and climber Jon Krakauer, author of Into Thin Air, about his attempt to solo climb a fearsome wall on Devil Thumb in Alaska.
Colorado's Fourteeners
Colorado offers 55 Fourteeners or 14,000-foot mountains for climbers to ascend. Learn all about Colorado's Fourteeners and how to climb them.
Colorado offers 55 Fourteeners or 14,000-foot mountains for climbers to ascend. Learn all about Colorado's Fourteeners and how to climb them.
Climbing Voice Commands
Climbing voice commands are basic verbal commands that rock climbers use to communicate with each other when they're climbing. Learn here why climbers use voice commands and what the basic voice commands are.
Climbing voice commands are basic verbal commands that rock climbers use to communicate with each other when they're climbing. Learn here why climbers use voice commands and what the basic voice commands are.
Black Diamond ATC-XP
Review of Black Diamond ATC-XP Climbing Belay Device
Review of Black Diamond ATC-XP Climbing Belay Device
Sport Climbing Gear
Here's all the basic equipment you need to go sport climbing, including rope, quickdraws, locking carabiners, and personal gear.
Here's all the basic equipment you need to go sport climbing, including rope, quickdraws, locking carabiners, and personal gear.
Climbing Up
Learn how to climb an indoor wall in a climbing gym and how to use your hands and feet.
Learn how to climb an indoor wall in a climbing gym and how to use your hands and feet.
Lightning Facts
Learn interesting facts about lightning. What are your chances of being struck? How many lightning strikes are there each day and year? What are the most dangerous places for lightning in the US?
Learn interesting facts about lightning. What are your chances of being struck? How many lightning strikes are there each day and year? What are the most dangerous places for lightning in the US?
Climbing Types
Climbing is divided into different types and styles, including rock climbing, bouldering, ice climbing, and mountaineering.
Climbing is divided into different types and styles, including rock climbing, bouldering, ice climbing, and mountaineering.
Gangkhar Puensum
Learn all about Gangkhar Puensum in Bhutan, the world's highest unclimbed mountain.
Learn all about Gangkhar Puensum in Bhutan, the world's highest unclimbed mountain.
Petzl GriGri
A review of the Petzl GriGri, a self-braking belay device for rock climbing.
A review of the Petzl GriGri, a self-braking belay device for rock climbing.
Ready, Set, Climb!
You're ready to go rock climbing. Here's what you need to know to start climbing at your local indoor climbing gym.
You're ready to go rock climbing. Here's what you need to know to start climbing at your local indoor climbing gym.
Hueco Tanks
Hueco Tanks State Historical Park in west Texas offers some of America’s finest bouldering and climbing on its towering walls and boulders. The 860-acre park, with a warm dry climate, is one of America’s premier winter climbing areas.
Hueco Tanks State Historical Park in west Texas offers some of America’s finest bouldering and climbing on its towering walls and boulders. The 860-acre park, with a warm dry climate, is one of America’s premier winter climbing areas.
Makalu Fast Facts
Facts About Makalu, the Fifth Highest Mountain in the World.
Facts About Makalu, the Fifth Highest Mountain in the World.
Rope Care Tips
Your climbing rope won't last forever. Follow these tips to increase its life--don't step on your rope, use a rope bag, run your rope freely, switch ends after falling on your rope, and regularly wash it.
Your climbing rope won't last forever. Follow these tips to increase its life--don't step on your rope, use a rope bag, run your rope freely, switch ends after falling on your rope, and regularly wash it.
Bouldering Equipment
The beauty of bouldering is not just doing hard moves but also its minimalism. You don’t need to spend lots of money on equipment to have fun on the boulders. Here are the 3 essential pieces of climbing equipment that you need to go bouldering.
The beauty of bouldering is not just doing hard moves but also its minimalism. You don’t need to spend lots of money on equipment to have fun on the boulders. Here are the 3 essential pieces of climbing equipment that you need to go bouldering.
Belay Device
Definition of Belay Device, a climbing equipment word for hardware used for belaying and rappelling.
Definition of Belay Device, a climbing equipment word for hardware used for belaying and rappelling.
How to Rig a Carabiner Brake
Learn how to rig a carabiner brake so you can safely rappel off a climb if you accidently drop, lose, or forget your rappel device.
Learn how to rig a carabiner brake so you can safely rappel off a climb if you accidently drop, lose, or forget your rappel device.
Care of Rock Shoes
To ensure that your rock shoes last, follow these three tips every time you go climbing and your shoes will have a long and happy life on the rocks.
To ensure that your rock shoes last, follow these three tips every time you go climbing and your shoes will have a long and happy life on the rocks.
Tying into the Rope
How to tie into a climbing rope and why the Figure-8 Follow-Through is the best knot for tying in.
How to tie into a climbing rope and why the Figure-8 Follow-Through is the best knot for tying in.
Bachmann Knot
The Bachmann Knot is a friction knot with a carabiner handle that is used in climbing to ascend fixed ropes.
The Bachmann Knot is a friction knot with a carabiner handle that is used in climbing to ascend fixed ropes.
Climbing is Dangerous
Climbing safely is your responsibility. Stay safe climbing by exercising good judgment and by knowing the limitations of your skills, ability, and experience.
Climbing safely is your responsibility. Stay safe climbing by exercising good judgment and by knowing the limitations of your skills, ability, and experience.
Handhold
Definition of Handhold, a climbing word for a point on a cliff face that a climber uses with her hands to make upward progress.
Definition of Handhold, a climbing word for a point on a cliff face that a climber uses with her hands to make upward progress.
Sport Climbing
Sport climbing, the pursuit of bolt-protected gymnastic climbing, offers the rewards of rock climbing without a lot of the risks. Learn here what sport climbing is and what skills you need to get out on the rocks.
Sport climbing, the pursuit of bolt-protected gymnastic climbing, offers the rewards of rock climbing without a lot of the risks. Learn here what sport climbing is and what skills you need to get out on the rocks.
Sport Climbing Safety
What you need to know to have a safe sport climbing experience, including belaying, lowering, setting up anchors, and rope management.
What you need to know to have a safe sport climbing experience, including belaying, lowering, setting up anchors, and rope management.
Rope
Definition of Rope, a climbing equipment word for a length of long cord used for climbing protection.
Definition of Rope, a climbing equipment word for a length of long cord used for climbing protection.
How to Tie a Klemheist Knot
Learn how to tie a Klemheist knot, an important knot used in climbing for ascending ropes and in emergency situations.
Learn how to tie a Klemheist knot, an important knot used in climbing for ascending ropes and in emergency situations.
John Otto Climbs Indy
A short historical article on the 1911 first ascent of Independence Monument in Colorado National Monument by John Otto.
A short historical article on the 1911 first ascent of Independence Monument in Colorado National Monument by John Otto.
Klemheist Knot
Definition of Klemheist Knot, climbing words for a friction knot used to ascend and descend a fixed rope.
Definition of Klemheist Knot, climbing words for a friction knot used to ascend and descend a fixed rope.
Moving Over Stone
Climbing is all about movement. It's about learning to use your hands and feet to ascend vertical rock faces. It's about the specialized techniques used in face climbing and crack climbing. Climbing is a natural human activity. Learn the basics here about moving over stone.
Climbing is all about movement. It's about learning to use your hands and feet to ascend vertical rock faces. It's about the specialized techniques used in face climbing and crack climbing. Climbing is a natural human activity. Learn the basics here about moving over stone.
3 Types of Rock Faces
There are 3 types of rock faces you'll encounter when you're rock climbing — slabs, vertical faces, and overhanging faces. Find out about these faces, how to climb them, and America's best areas for each type.
There are 3 types of rock faces you'll encounter when you're rock climbing — slabs, vertical faces, and overhanging faces. Find out about these faces, how to climb them, and America's best areas for each type.
Pikes Peak Facts
Facts About Pikes Peak, the 31st Highest Mountain in the Colorado Rockies.
Facts About Pikes Peak, the 31st Highest Mountain in the Colorado Rockies.
Anchor & Belayer
The most important parts of the top-rope climbing safety chain are the anchors and the belayer.
The most important parts of the top-rope climbing safety chain are the anchors and the belayer.
Dhaulagiri Facts
Facts About Dhaulagiri, the Seventh Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Dhaulagiri, the Seventh Highest Mountain in the World
7 Summit Climbing Costs
How much does it cost to climb The Seven Summits, the seven highest mountains on the seven continents? You know it will cost a lot of money, find out here how much it costs to climb all seven mountains.
How much does it cost to climb The Seven Summits, the seven highest mountains on the seven continents? You know it will cost a lot of money, find out here how much it costs to climb all seven mountains.
Broken Bolt Accident
A rock climber falls while rappelling at the Garden of the Gods when an old anchor bolt breaks. Read an analysis of the accident and the lessons to learn from it.
A rock climber falls while rappelling at the Garden of the Gods when an old anchor bolt breaks. Read an analysis of the accident and the lessons to learn from it.
California Fourteener List
California, with the highest peak in the contiguous US, offers 13 Fourteeners or peaks above 14,000 feet for climbers. Check out this complete list of all the Fourteeners, their elevations and mountain ranges, and 10 sub-peaks.
California, with the highest peak in the contiguous US, offers 13 Fourteeners or peaks above 14,000 feet for climbers. Check out this complete list of all the Fourteeners, their elevations and mountain ranges, and 10 sub-peaks.
Otto's Route
Route description for Otto's Route on Independence Monument, Colorado National Monument, Colorado.
Route description for Otto's Route on Independence Monument, Colorado National Monument, Colorado.
Carabiner Brake Method
How do you rappel if you drop your rappel device on a rock climb? The best way to get down is by using the carabiner brake method. Learn all about the carabiner brake including its advantages and disadvantages so you'll know how to manage in an emergency situation.
How do you rappel if you drop your rappel device on a rock climb? The best way to get down is by using the carabiner brake method. Learn all about the carabiner brake including its advantages and disadvantages so you'll know how to manage in an emergency situation.
U,S, State High Points
A list of the high points in all 50 U.S. states and Washington D.C.
A list of the high points in all 50 U.S. states and Washington D.C.
Belay
Definition of Belay, a climbing word for the process of securing and safeguarding a rope for a climber.
Definition of Belay, a climbing word for the process of securing and safeguarding a rope for a climber.
Waves Meet Rock at Long Dong
Photograph of Pacific Ocean waves on the rocky shoreline at Long Dong, Taiwan, Asia.
Photograph of Pacific Ocean waves on the rocky shoreline at Long Dong, Taiwan, Asia.
Anchor
Definition of Anchor, a climbing word for a piece of gear or natural object that ties or anchors a climber to a face.
Definition of Anchor, a climbing word for a piece of gear or natural object that ties or anchors a climber to a face.
Your Climbing Harness
A climbing harness is a key piece of your personal climbing equipment. Your harness, with a waist belt and leg loops constructed of sewn webbing, connects you to your climbing rope with a knot. Learn here about the evolution and types of harnesses.
A climbing harness is a key piece of your personal climbing equipment. Your harness, with a waist belt and leg loops constructed of sewn webbing, connects you to your climbing rope with a knot. Learn here about the evolution and types of harnesses.
Locking Carabiner
Definition of Locking Carabiner, a climbing equipment word for a metal link that locks shut.
Definition of Locking Carabiner, a climbing equipment word for a metal link that locks shut.
Cho Oyu Facts
Facts About Cho Oyu, the Fifth Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Cho Oyu, the Fifth Highest Mountain in the World
Rappel Device
Definition of Rappel Device, a climbing equipment word for a metal device used for belaying and rappelling.
Definition of Rappel Device, a climbing equipment word for a metal device used for belaying and rappelling.
Rappel
Definition of Rappel, a climbing word for descending fixed ropes.
Definition of Rappel, a climbing word for descending fixed ropes.
Colorado Fourteeners List
Colorado, the roof of the Rockies, offers 55 Fourteeners or peaks above 14,000 feet for climbers. Here is a complete listing of all the Fourteeners, their elevations, and their mountain ranges.
Colorado, the roof of the Rockies, offers 55 Fourteeners or peaks above 14,000 feet for climbers. Here is a complete listing of all the Fourteeners, their elevations, and their mountain ranges.
Updated 10 Essentials
Here's a list of the updated Ten Essentials and why you should carry them. The Ten Essentials will help you in emergency situations when you're climbing.
Here's a list of the updated Ten Essentials and why you should carry them. The Ten Essentials will help you in emergency situations when you're climbing.
Reinhold Messner Quote
Here's a great climbing quote from Italian mountaineer Reinhold Messner, one of the greatest alpinists of the 20th century and the first to climb all the 8,000-meter peaks.
Here's a great climbing quote from Italian mountaineer Reinhold Messner, one of the greatest alpinists of the 20th century and the first to climb all the 8,000-meter peaks.
Trango B52 Review
A complete Guide Review of a Trango B52 belay and rappel device used for rock, ice, and sport climbing.
A complete Guide Review of a Trango B52 belay and rappel device used for rock, ice, and sport climbing.
Matt Reaches for a One Way Ticket
Photograph of Matt Robertson climbing One Way Ticket (5.11a) on the Clocktower at Long Dong, Taiwan, Asia.
Photograph of Matt Robertson climbing One Way Ticket (5.11a) on the Clocktower at Long Dong, Taiwan, Asia.
Carstensz Pyramid
Learn about Carstensz Pyramid, the highest mountain in New Guinea, Indonesia, and Oceania, and one of the Seven Summits.
Learn about Carstensz Pyramid, the highest mountain in New Guinea, Indonesia, and Oceania, and one of the Seven Summits.
Why Climb?
Why go climbing? It's a lot of fun, gets you outside, and challenges you to push the boundaries of the possible. Learn here about some of the risks and rewards that climbing offers.
Why go climbing? It's a lot of fun, gets you outside, and challenges you to push the boundaries of the possible. Learn here about some of the risks and rewards that climbing offers.
Stopper Knot
A stopper knot is tied in the ends of a rappel rope to keep a climber from rappelling off it.
A stopper knot is tied in the ends of a rappel rope to keep a climber from rappelling off it.
Classic Yosemite
"Classic Yosemite" drawing by Colorado Springs artist Steve Wood.
"Classic Yosemite" drawing by Colorado Springs artist Steve Wood.
Crimp
Definition of Crimp, a climbing word for a fingertip handhold
Definition of Crimp, a climbing word for a fingertip handhold
Matt Gets A Golden Shower
Photograph of a rock climber pulling over a roof at Long Dong, Taiwan.
Photograph of a rock climber pulling over a roof at Long Dong, Taiwan.
Broad Peak Facts
Facts About Broad Peak, the Twelfth Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Broad Peak, the Twelfth Highest Mountain in the World
Gasherbrum I Facts
Facts About Gasherbrum I, the Eleventh Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Gasherbrum I, the Eleventh Highest Mountain in the World
Lightning First Aid
The worst thing to happen during a thunder storm is that you or someone in your party is struck by lightning. If lightning strikes while you're climbing, follow these first aid steps to save a life.
The worst thing to happen during a thunder storm is that you or someone in your party is struck by lightning. If lightning strikes while you're climbing, follow these first aid steps to save a life.
All About Bouldering
Bouldering, the discipline of rock climbing on small cliffs and boulders, celebrates the joy of movement over stone. Bouldering is all about movement, of climbing with purity and simplicity and without a rope and protective gear. Bouldering is simply you and the rock. Learn all about bouldering here.
Bouldering, the discipline of rock climbing on small cliffs and boulders, celebrates the joy of movement over stone. Bouldering is all about movement, of climbing with purity and simplicity and without a rope and protective gear. Bouldering is simply you and the rock. Learn all about bouldering here.
Cordelette
Definition of Cordelette, a climbing equipment word for a long length of rope for equalizing anchors.
Definition of Cordelette, a climbing equipment word for a long length of rope for equalizing anchors.
Slings
Definition of Slings, a climbing equipment word for either sewn or tied pieces of tubular webbing.
Definition of Slings, a climbing equipment word for either sewn or tied pieces of tubular webbing.
Static Rope
Definition of Static Rope, a climbing equipment word for a rope that doesn't stretch.
Definition of Static Rope, a climbing equipment word for a rope that doesn't stretch.
Use Your Feet
If you want to climb better, then you need to use your feet better. Learn here why good footwork is important if you want to get up hard climbs.
If you want to climb better, then you need to use your feet better. Learn here why good footwork is important if you want to get up hard climbs.
Crack Climbing
Definition of Crack Climbing, climbing words for ascending fissures or cracks in rock faces by jamming or wedging body parts into them.
Definition of Crack Climbing, climbing words for ascending fissures or cracks in rock faces by jamming or wedging body parts into them.
Dihedral
Definition of Dihedral, a climbing word for a vertical right-angled corner on a cliff.
Definition of Dihedral, a climbing word for a vertical right-angled corner on a cliff.
Nanga Parbat Facts
Facts About Nanga Parbat, the Ninth Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Nanga Parbat, the Ninth Highest Mountain in the World
Climb Fast Climb More
Climbing fast makes you a better climber. You improve your technique and climb more efficiently. Your rope management skills improve. You get stronger and have more endurance. And you get more climbing in every day. Learn here about learning to speed climb.
Climbing fast makes you a better climber. You improve your technique and climb more efficiently. Your rope management skills improve. You get stronger and have more endurance. And you get more climbing in every day. Learn here about learning to speed climb.
Reaching Up Dikenstein
Photograph of Lisa Horst climbing at Sundown Ledge near North Conway in the White Mountains, New Hampshire.
Photograph of Lisa Horst climbing at Sundown Ledge near North Conway in the White Mountains, New Hampshire.
Stopper Knots & Belaying
Always tie a stopper knot in the end of your rope when you're belaying a lead climber. It might save his life. Find out all about stopper knots and belaying here.
Always tie a stopper knot in the end of your rope when you're belaying a lead climber. It might save his life. Find out all about stopper knots and belaying here.
Desert Cracks
"Desert Cracks" drawing by Colorado Springs artist Steve Wood.
"Desert Cracks" drawing by Colorado Springs artist Steve Wood.
Rock Shoes Wear Out
Rock shoes, like the rest of your climbing equipment, eventually wear out. The more you climb, the faster your shoes get trashed. Follow these shoe-care tips to keep climbing in your rock shoes.
Rock shoes, like the rest of your climbing equipment, eventually wear out. The more you climb, the faster your shoes get trashed. Follow these shoe-care tips to keep climbing in your rock shoes.
Gobies
Definition of Gobies, a climbing slang word for cuts on the hands.
Definition of Gobies, a climbing slang word for cuts on the hands.
Speed Climbing The Nose
So you want to climb fast? Read about speed climbing up The Nose of El Capitan in Yosemite Valley and the current record by Hans Florine and Yuji Hirayama.
So you want to climb fast? Read about speed climbing up The Nose of El Capitan in Yosemite Valley and the current record by Hans Florine and Yuji Hirayama.
Manaslu Facts
Facts About Manaslu, the Eighth Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Manaslu, the Eighth Highest Mountain in the World
Annapurna Facts
Facts About Annapurna, the Tenth Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Annapurna, the Tenth Highest Mountain in the World
Couloir
Definition of Couloir, a climbing word for an icy or snowy gully on a mountain peak.
Definition of Couloir, a climbing word for an icy or snowy gully on a mountain peak.
When to Get Resoles
When should you get new soles on your rock shoes? Should you wait until your rock shoes are almost worn out? The best advice is to get new soles when you need them and not to wait until it’s too late. Follow these tips to determine when you need a rock shoe resole.
When should you get new soles on your rock shoes? Should you wait until your rock shoes are almost worn out? The best advice is to get new soles when you need them and not to wait until it’s too late. Follow these tips to determine when you need a rock shoe resole.
Julia Archibald Holmes
In 1858 Julia Archibald Holmes became the first woman to climb Pikes Peak, one of Colorado's most famous Fourteeners. Read all about Holme's landmark ascent here.
In 1858 Julia Archibald Holmes became the first woman to climb Pikes Peak, one of Colorado's most famous Fourteeners. Read all about Holme's landmark ascent here.
Mark Twight Climbing Quote
Here's a quote about extreme alpinism by the 1980s master mountaineer Mark Twight, one of the best American alpinists.
Here's a quote about extreme alpinism by the 1980s master mountaineer Mark Twight, one of the best American alpinists.
Lynn Hill Climbing Quote
Here's a quote about rock climbing from Lynn Hill, one of the best all-around climbers in the world.
Here's a quote about rock climbing from Lynn Hill, one of the best all-around climbers in the world.
Climbing's Not That Inconceivable
Photograph of a rock climber ascending a sandstone cliff at Long Dong, Taiwan, Asia.
Photograph of a rock climber ascending a sandstone cliff at Long Dong, Taiwan, Asia.
Matt Chooses The Tall Size
Photograph of Matt Robertson climbing "Choose Your Size" (5.9) at Apprentice Rock, Long Dong, Taiwan, Asia.
Photograph of Matt Robertson climbing "Choose Your Size" (5.9) at Apprentice Rock, Long Dong, Taiwan, Asia.
Chain of Top-Rope Safety
Learn here about your top-rope chain of safety; the parts of the chain of safety; and the serious business of top-rope anchors.
Learn here about your top-rope chain of safety; the parts of the chain of safety; and the serious business of top-rope anchors.
Speed Tip #8
Speed Climbing Tip #8 -- To climb faster use cams instead of nuts when you place climbing protection since they're easier to place and remove.
Speed Climbing Tip #8 -- To climb faster use cams instead of nuts when you place climbing protection since they're easier to place and remove.
Learn to Climb
Belaying is one of the most important climbing skills. Here you learn the basics about belaying and using belay devices.
Belaying is one of the most important climbing skills. Here you learn the basics about belaying and using belay devices.
What is Climbing?
Want to know what climbing is all about? This article describes climbing as a recreational sport that uses hands and feet to ascend steep obstacles like mountains, cliffs, and artificial walls.
Want to know what climbing is all about? This article describes climbing as a recreational sport that uses hands and feet to ascend steep obstacles like mountains, cliffs, and artificial walls.
Eric Wallace Hangs Tough at The Coliseum
Photograph of Eric Wallace climbing at The Coliseum at Summersville Lake, West Virgina.
Photograph of Eric Wallace climbing at The Coliseum at Summersville Lake, West Virgina.
Your Rope's Life
How long will your climbing rope last? Find out here about the life of your climbing rope and what wears your rope out.
How long will your climbing rope last? Find out here about the life of your climbing rope and what wears your rope out.
Rope Middle Mark
Two of the most common questions from climbers about climbing ropes are: Why do I need a middle mark on my rope? and How do I mark the middle of my rope? A middle mark on your rope is important because it speeds up your rope management. Learn all about middle marks here.
Two of the most common questions from climbers about climbing ropes are: Why do I need a middle mark on my rope? and How do I mark the middle of my rope? A middle mark on your rope is important because it speeds up your rope management. Learn all about middle marks here.
French Free Climbing
Definition of French Free Climbing, a climbing word for making occasional aid moves when free climbing a route.
Definition of French Free Climbing, a climbing word for making occasional aid moves when free climbing a route.
All About Crash Pads
If you go bouldering, you're going to fall. Use a bouldering crash pad to cushion your fall and help you avoid injuries to your ankles. Read here about the basics of bouldering crash pads.
If you go bouldering, you're going to fall. Use a bouldering crash pad to cushion your fall and help you avoid injuries to your ankles. Read here about the basics of bouldering crash pads.
Care of Climbing Gear
Climbing equipment takes a beating. Learn about caring and maintaining your climbing gear, including how to check and store gear, take care of your rope, and when to retire gear.
Climbing equipment takes a beating. Learn about caring and maintaining your climbing gear, including how to check and store gear, take care of your rope, and when to retire gear.
Bolt
Definition of Bolt, a climbing equipment word for an artificial anchor.
Definition of Bolt, a climbing equipment word for an artificial anchor.
Tuolumne Meadows Climbing
Tuolumne Meadows in California's Yosemite National Park is simply one of the best summer rock climbing areas in the United States with its sky-scraping granite domes and glacier-etched faces, easy access, quiet camping in lodgepole pine forests, and superb knob, crack, and slab climbing routes.
Tuolumne Meadows in California's Yosemite National Park is simply one of the best summer rock climbing areas in the United States with its sky-scraping granite domes and glacier-etched faces, easy access, quiet camping in lodgepole pine forests, and superb knob, crack, and slab climbing routes.
Speed Tip 1: Good Shoes
Speed Climbing Tip #1 — Wear comfortable climbing shoes so you don't waste time putting them on and taking them off.
Speed Climbing Tip #1 — Wear comfortable climbing shoes so you don't waste time putting them on and taking them off.
Hueco Tanks Guide
The Lunch Rock Wall on the left side of the Front Side cliff at Hueco Tanks offers a great selection of moderate climbing routes.
The Lunch Rock Wall on the left side of the Front Side cliff at Hueco Tanks offers a great selection of moderate climbing routes.
Perfect Jams Great Handholds
Photograph of Peihua Wu climbing up the excellent crack route Cunning Linguist at the Cathouse, Long Dong, Taiwain, Asia.
Photograph of Peihua Wu climbing up the excellent crack route Cunning Linguist at the Cathouse, Long Dong, Taiwain, Asia.
Hand Crack
Definition of Hand Crack, climbing words for a hand-sized crack that is ascended by jamming or wedging a climber's hands into.
Definition of Hand Crack, climbing words for a hand-sized crack that is ascended by jamming or wedging a climber's hands into.
Harness
Definition of Harness, a climbing equipment word for safety waist belt with leg loops.
Definition of Harness, a climbing equipment word for safety waist belt with leg loops.
Tying & Untying Knots
How to tie and untie knots used in rock climbing and mountaineering.
How to tie and untie knots used in rock climbing and mountaineering.
South Platte Classic
"South Platte Classic" drawing by Colorado Springs artist Steve Wood.
"South Platte Classic" drawing by Colorado Springs artist Steve Wood.
Face Climbing
Definition of Face Climbing, climbing words for ascending a rock face using edges, pockets, and other handholds.
Definition of Face Climbing, climbing words for ascending a rock face using edges, pockets, and other handholds.
Rappelling is Dangerous
A lot can go wrong when you're rappelling off a cliff since you're totally dependent on your equipment. Learn here why rappelling is dangerous and how you can be safer rappelling.
A lot can go wrong when you're rappelling off a cliff since you're totally dependent on your equipment. Learn here why rappelling is dangerous and how you can be safer rappelling.